By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
Thursday, State Sen. Bill Holtzclaw, R-Madison, announced that he is ending his effort to win the Republican nomination for the Fifth Congressional District. Holtzclaw, who earlier had announced that he will not run for another term for state Senate, had been challenging popular incumbent Congressman Mo Brooks, R-Huntsville.
“After much consideration I have decided to end my campaign for Congress in the 5th Congressional District,” Holtzclaw announced. “Two weeks ago, I began my final legislative session as the State Senator for District 2. At times it has been ‘rough and tumble,’ but in the end it has been a rewarding 8 years serving as a member of the Alabama State Senate. I’m proud to have championed legislation for small businesses, veterans’ affairs and to combat driving under the influence, along with numerous issues that constituents brought to my attention. I am proud of the passage of such bills and the positive changes they have brought to the lives of everyday Alabamians.”
“After serving my country for 20 years as a U.S .Marine, my state for eight years as the Senator for AL District 2, and my city for two years as a Madison City Councilman; I am ready to return to the private sector,” Holtzclaw continued. “I am thankful to have had a good run and fought the good fight over three decades of public service. I will continue to serve in my role as a State Senator through the end of my term in November of this year. I look forward to spending more time with my family (including my second grandchild born over the holidays), working and volunteering in my community.”
Sen. Holtzclaw thanked his supporters for their efforts on his behalf:
“Finally, I want to extend my thanks to the many supporters for the early efforts in helping with this campaign. I am honored by the support and financial contributions we have received and will be returning contributions in the coming weeks. Thank you for believing in me and providing me the opportunity to represent you in Montgomery since 2010. I encourage everyone to stay informed and engaged with government; from your School Board, City Council all the way to the Oval Office. Your voice matters and communicating with your elected officials is necessary for them to effectively advocate on your behalf.”
Brooks still faces a primary challenge from businessman and veteran Clayton Hinchman.
Presently incumbents: Bradley Byrne, Mike Rogers, Gary Palmer and Robert Aderholt have no qualified primary opponents. In the Second congressional district, Martha Roby, R-Montgomery, is being challenged by state Representative Barry Moore, R-Enterprise. Additionally, Tommy Amason and Rich Hobson have announced candidacies against Roby in the Second Congressional District.
Congressman Mo Brooks is running for his fifth term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The major party primaries will be on June 5, 2018.
