State Rep. Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) has officially announced his re-election bid for the state’s 73rd district in 2026, using the slogan “God and Country” as he seeks to continue as the only black Republican in Alabama’s legislature.
Paschal was elected in the 2021 special election as the first black Republican elected to the Alabama Legislature in nearly 140 years. He subsequently maintained the seat in 2022 in a full election.
“I ran to serve—not to make promises, but to uphold the Constitution and defend the rights and values of the people of Alabama,” Paschal said. “With your continued support, I will keep fighting for God, country, and the families of District 73.”
Paschal served 21 years in the U.S. Army before retiring in 2006. After his service, he returned to his home state, settling in Shelby County. He is a past post commander of the American Legion and a member of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee. Paschal also serves on the Shelby County Republican Executive Committee.
Paschal’s district includes portions of Alabaster, Helena, Montevallo and Pelham.
In his campaign announcement, Paschal laid out his priorities going forward, including:
• Advancing Tax Relief for working families to ease financial burdens and promote economic independence.
• Expanding Public Safety Protections to ensure every community remains secure and resilient.
• Strengthening Educational and Parental Choice, empowering families to make the best decisions for their children's education.
• Driving Economic Development and Job Creation across Shelby County and the state.
• Protecting and Strengthening Family Values and Parental Rights, a cornerstone of Paschal’s legislative vision.
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