By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
On Wednesday, January 6, the Business Council of Alabama announced that it has endorsed US Senator Richard Shelby (R) for reelection. This follows an endorsement on Tuesday by a prominent North Alabama veterans group.
BCA President and CEO William J. Canary said in a statement, “Senator Shelby is one of the most respected and influential members of the US Senate and Alabama is very fortunate to have his guidance and support not only for business issues but also his great concern for the well-being of the State.”
The group of Huntsville area veterans endorsed Sen. Shelby because they said that Senator Shelby has always worked to support those who currently serve in our Armed Forces as well as the veterans who have sacrificed so much to keep us safe.
Senator Shelby said, “I know that the American Dream would not be possible without the men and women in uniform who have selflessly sacrificed for our great nation. I am honored to have the endorsement of this group of veterans as well as to reaffirm my steadfast commitment to our nation’s military and to defeating radical Islamic terrorism.”
The Huntsville area veterans wrote in their endorsement letter, “Shelby’s record of support for America’s Armed Forces is unwavering, and we should know. Our combined military experience spans many decades and across the globe.”
BCA President Canary continued, “As chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, and as chairman of the commerce and science subcommittee, the Tuscaloosa Republican is well-situated to ensure that Alabama has a place at the table when important funding issues are considered. As a businessman, Senator Shelby also understands what Alabama needs to continue its growth as a manufacturing, technology, and medical science center.”
The Huntsville area veterans wrote, “We know Richard Shelby. We ask you to join us in re-electing him to the US Senate because he is a man who understands the threats our country faces and fights for the resources necessary to defeat them. Now more than ever, that is the kind of leadership and resolve we need in Congress.” “And we know from experience that when we led America’s sons and daughters into harm’s way in defense of our nation’s interests, Richard Shelby is one member of the US Senate who we could always count on to support the resources necessary to prevail over our enemies and protect the soldiers entrusted to our care.”
Shelby was elected to the Alabama Legislature in 1970. He was elected to the Congress for the first time in 1978 and to the US Senate in 1986.
Senator Shelby face an experienced GOP Primary challenger in former State Senator Shadrack McGill (R-Jackson County). Political newcomers John Martin, Jonathan McConnell, and Marcus Bowman are also running in the March 1 GOP Primary.
The winner of the March Republican primary will face a Democratic Party opponent in the November general election. Ron Crumpton faces Charles Nana in the Alabama Democratic Party Primary also on March 1.
