The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) reaffirmed its commitment on Friday to passing closed primary legislation.
For years, protecting Alabama’s Republican primary has been a top legislative priority of the Party. In the final weeks of the session, that effort gained traction, bringing the bill closer to passage than ever before.
However, the bill died in the Senate on Thursday in the final day of the session after passing the House earlier in the session.
“While we are disappointed that HB541 did not cross the finish line this session, we are incredibly proud of how far this effort has come,” State Rep. Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle), ALGOP chairman, said on Friday. “This was the closest we have ever been to getting this done, and that is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our members and supporters across the state.”
Stadthagen praised State Rep. Ernie Yarbrough (R-Trinity) for stepping up and sponsoring the legislation.
“Representative Ernie Yarbrough has been a relentless advocate for this issue from day one,” Stadthagen said. “His commitment to protecting our primaries never wavered, and Alabama Republicans are grateful for his hard work and determination, along with those of his co-sponsors: Representatives Butler, Myrex, Harrison, Kiel, Underwood, Hammett, Whorton, Treadaway, Pettus, Rehm, Paschal, Mooney, Carns, and Stringer."
Stadthagen also recognized legislative leadership in both chambers for their roles in advancing the bill.
“We appreciate Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger for their willingness to listen to party members and work with us to move this legislation forward in the closing days of the session,” Stadthagen said.
Stadthagen also recognized the members of the ALGOP Executive Committee for their “extraordinary efforts in support of HB541.”
“In just a few short weeks, our State Executive Committee mobilized, engaged, and pushed this issue further than it has ever gone before,” Stadthagen said. “Their commitment, their persistence, and their belief in this cause made all the difference. They should be proud of the role they played in bringing us to this moment. This fight is not over. We have built real momentum, and we will carry it forward. The Alabama Republican Party is already working to ensure that this legislation is passed at the next available opportunity.”
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