Democratic Former Sen. Doug Jones Launches Campaign for Alabama Governor

Democratic Former Sen. Doug Jones Launches Campaign for Alabama Governor

Birmingham, AL — December 12, 2025 — Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones, the last Democrat to hold statewide office in Alabama, officially launched his 2026 campaign for governor Friday night, drawing a large crowd at an energetic rally in Birmingham. 

Jones kicked off his bid for Alabama’s highest office at a packed event featuring music by Jason Isbell and strong supporter turnout, marking his return to statewide politics nearly five years after his Senate term ended. 

Voters Deserve a Choice, Jones Says

In his remarks, Jones emphasized the need for leadership that rises above partisan division and focuses on real solutions for Alabama families. “With your help we can finish what we began. We can build the Alabama we’ve always deserved,” he told supporters. 

Jones highlighted several issues he intends to prioritize as governor, including expanding healthcare access, strengthening education, improving the economy, and supporting working families. He also called for the creation of a state lottery to retain revenue within Alabama and expand funding for rural hospitals and services. 

Historic Context and Campaign Challenges

The campaign launch took place on the eighth anniversary of Jones’ unlikely 2017 Senate victory over Republican Roy Moore, a symbol of his breakthrough success in a deeply Republican state. 

Alabama has not elected a Democratic governor since Don Siegelman in 1998, and Jones acknowledged the uphill challenge ahead as he faces a primary contest and a likely general election matchup against Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville, who defeated Jones in the 2020 Senate race and is also running for governor. 

Policy Priorities and Criticism of Opponents

Jones criticized current state leadership and his potential Republican rival for failing to address healthcare, affordable energy costs, and economic struggles facing everyday Alabamians. He specifically pointed to resistance against expanding Medicaid and extending Affordable Care Act subsidies as obstacles to progress. 

Supporters at the rally cheered his return to the political forefront, pointing to his leadership record, including his tenure as U.S. attorney and his role in prosecuting perpetrators of the 1963 Birmingham church bombing. 

Looking Ahead

With the primary elections scheduled for May 2026 and the general election in November, Jones’ campaign sets the stage for a competitive race in Alabama politics. His announcement reignites Democratic hopes in a traditionally conservative state and sparks renewed focus on key issues affecting voters across Alabama.