Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate announced on Monday that he will run for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor in the 2026 election.
Pate is term-limited as Commissioner of Agriculture and aims to continue his public service advocating for farmers, small businesses, rural communities and veterans.
“I’ve spent my life working the land, running a business, and serving my neighbors,” said Pate. “As Lieutenant Governor, I’ll bring that same hands-on leadership to supporting President Trump and Coach Tuberville in advancing the American First Agenda—so Alabama stays a place where families thrive, agriculture prospers, and conservative values lead the way.”
Pate grew up on his family’s cattle farm in Lowndes County. He earned a degree in horticulture from Auburn University in 1978 and founded Pate Landscape Co., which he operated for 38 years.
Pate served as mayor of Lowndesboro for 14 years before being elected Agriculture Commissioner in 2018. He was re-elected without any major party opposition in 2022.
During his tenure as commissioner, Pate launched the “Sweet Grown Alabama” branding program to promote local agricultural products, expanded the state’s Farm-to-School initiative, and led the “Thank a Farmer” campaign to increase public appreciation for farmers.
He also oversaw the opening of a new Pesticide Residue Lab in Auburn and secured funding to support Alabama’s meat and poultry inspection programs.
Pate has served as the president of the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture and was elected as an RNC delegate and one of the nine Alabama Electoral College electors for President Donald Trump in both 2020 and 2024.
“Food security is national security,” Pate said. “Our farmers are frontline workers and often underappreciated, and I’m committed to ensuring they have the support they need to feed Alabama and beyond.”
Pate enters a growing Republican field for lieutenant governor. The primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
