Secretary of State Wes Allen told 1819 News on Friday that he will not run for Congress in the newly redrawn second congressional district.
On Thursday, three federal judges chose a new map for Alabama to use in its upcoming elections in 2024. The U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ordered the redistricting earlier this year, demanding lawmakers create a new majority black or near-majority black congressional district. The Alabama Legislature produced a map in June during a special session, but the courts struck it down.
Several Republicans have objected to the new map. Attorney General Steve Marshall called the new map a "racial gerrymander." The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) claimed the courts chose the map most favorable to Democrats.
Allen himself said on Twitter that the court had "forced" the map on Alabama but that his office will "facilitate the 2024 election cycle in accordance with the map."
The new District 2 encompasses the southern portion of Alabama's Black Belt region and stretches from the Tillman's Corner neighborhood of Mobile to Phenix City and the bank of the Chattahoochee River. The redistricting moved counties in southwest Alabama, including U.S. Rep. Barry Moore's (R-Enterprise) Coffee County, into District 1, represented by U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile).
There was some speculation Allen might seek the Republican nomination in the new District 2. Former State Sen. Dick Brewbaker (R-Montgomery), who served in the State Senate from 2010 until 2018, has already suggested he is looking into running.
However, Allen officially confirmed he is not interested in running in a statement on Friday morning.
"Just wanted to touch base," he said. "I'm not interested in running for [Congressional District 2]. I will not be a candidate for [Congressional District 2]."
Whoever wins the Republican nomination will face one of several possible Democrats eyeing to switch the seat in favor of their party. Several names have been mentioned as potential candidates, including Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email will.blakely@1819news.com or find him on Twitter and Facebook.
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