TUSCALOOSA — For the casual observer of Alabama politics on the University of Alabama campus, it may appear that SB129, a ban on so-called "divisive concepts" within state public institutions, is the most relevant act of the state legislature in 2024.
Although the ban has affected the University of Alabama and other state schools, it is highly questionable if it was the most meaningful piece of legislation passed during this year's session.
Still, the perception exists because left-wing actors on the University of Alabama campus have voiced that message whenever an opportunity presents itself.
During remarks at this month's University of Alabama College Republican meeting on the Tuscaloosa campus, House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle) suggested Republicans could borrow from that playbook.
The Morgan County Republican lawmaker was asked what they, as College Republicans, could do to better the GOP's efforts in November.
According to Stadthagen, "voicing the message" about policy and being unafraid will win the day.
"Honestly, I think the biggest thing is voicing the message," he said. "Policy wins. The right policy wins, and the right message wins. I'll go back to some of the stuff that I've filed. People are supportive of that I've done, and I've even had people at church who have come up to me, and they pull me aside, and they whisper in my ear, 'Thank you so much for that bill.'"
"Why are we whispering?" Stadthagen asked. "Why are you scared to say that? That was the 'bathroom bill' that I am talking about. Why are you scared to say that you're thankful that boys can't enter a girls' bathroom? The problem that we have on a national level is Republicans are always respectful and polite. We respect the other party. We respect the people in our party. We respect liberals, everybody. We want to show you respect. They don't, OK? And I think we need to voice our opinions and what we believe in in a professional, respectful manner. That's the message that needs to come out."
Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
