State Auditor Jim Zeigler (R) said on Sunday that he will not run for Governor in the 2022 election. Zeigler said that he based the decision on a lack of fundraising success compared to the top three candidates.
“Even though I get a lot of bang for the buck as a candidate,” Zeigler said, “the governor’s race has attracted a massive amount of money from well-funded challengers. Three candidates alone have already raised in excess of $10M.”
Zeigler set up an exploratory campaign in August 2021 and said he received support and encouragement to run instead for a down-ballot state office to remain in state government. He must decide and qualify by Jan. 28 at 5 p.m.
Zeigler has served two terms as State Auditor and is limited by the state constitution from running for a third consecutive term.
While serving as State Auditor, Zeigler formed a citizen’s group in 2019 to oppose the plan by ALDOT to charge a $6 toll each way between Mobile and Baldwin counties over the I-10 Bayway. The group grew to 51,000 members and successfully blocked the toll plan.
Zeigler said that he has always tried to be an advocate for the people of Alabama and will keep fighting in whatever capacity they elect him to serve.
“Alabama taxpayers need a consistent voice in state government to defend our constitutional rights and fight government overreach,” Zeigler said.
"I regret to report that I have not raised adequate funds to get our message out in the governor's race."
Incumbent Gov. Kay Ivey’s campaign reports having raised $2.8 million for her re-election bid.
Former Ambassador to Slovenia Lynda “Lindy” Blanchard, who is largely self-funding her campaign reports $6.3 million.
Greenville businessman Tim James reports $1.66 million. This is the third time that James has run for the Republican nomination for Governor.
Zeigler who never formerly announced that he was actually going to run, only had $22,000 raised.
King’s Home President Lew Burdette, Lee County Pastor Dean Odle, former Morgan County Commissioner Stacy George, and Springville Mayor Dave Thomas are also running in for the Republican nomination.
Chad Chig Martin, Yolanda Rochelle Flowers, and Patricia Salter Jamieson are all running for the Democratic nomination for Governor.
Zeigler is an attorney and formerly served as a member of the Public Service Commission.
Friday at 5 p.m. is the deadline for qualifying to run in either major party primary.
The major party primaries will be on May 24. Independent and minor party candidates have until that day to turn in their fees and paperwork including signed ballot access petitions in order to get access to the Nov. 8 general election ballot.
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