Jared Hudson, a former Navy SEAL and political newcomer, is leading the 2026 Republican primary for U.S. Senate, according to a new poll.
According to Quantus Insights, Hudson is leading the primary at 27%. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall trails narrowly at 24%, and U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) lags at 9%. Morgan Murphy and Rodney Walker are at 2% each, according to the poll.
The poll was conducted via text from October 13 to 14 and had a sample size of 1,050 registered Republican primary voters. The poll had a margin of error of 3.2%.
“But the real story may be the 36% still undecided — a sign that this contest is wide open, and the electorate is still weighing experience against conviction,” Quantus Insights said. “Hudson’s support is anchored in voters who prize national security and personal grit — values he personifies. One in three respondents (33%) say a military or law enforcement background best prepares someone for the Senate, more than any other qualification. Marshall, by contrast, leans on name recognition and a law-and-order brand built in office. Moore remains a regional player, drawing from younger and more rural pockets but lacking broader traction.
"In Alabama, where outsiders often win by sounding more like the people than the politicians, Hudson’s lead is no fluke. But it’s also not a lock. With over a third of voters uncommitted, the Senate primary remains volatile.”
Quantus Insights also polled the 2026 Republican primary for governor, which showed U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) with a 63% to 4% lead over Ken McFeeters.
In the Republican primary for lieutenant governor, Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen leads with 26%. Two undeclared candidates, former University of Alabama quarterback A.J. McCarron and former Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill, polled at 14% and 10%, respectively. Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate polled at 9%. Nicole Wadsworth polled at 2%.
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