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A significant shift is coming to the Alabama Senate, with President Pro Tempore Greg Reed reportedly preparing to step down from his leadership role, according to Yellowhammer News. Sources tell APR that Reed is expected to transition into a new role as secretary of workforce, leading the newly established Alabama Department of Workforce, which was formerly known as the Alabama Department of Labor.
The race to succeed Reed has ignited a political showdown in Montgomery, with three prominent senators vying for one of Alabama’s most influential positions. The outcome will shape the state’s legislative future and define its political direction.
Reed’s decision to step down comes after Alabama enacted the Alabama Workforce Transformation Act in May 2024. This landmark legislation restructured the state’s labor department to enhance workforce development, creating the Alabama Workforce Board and consolidating programs to streamline operations. Designed to modernize workforce strategies, the act addresses labor force participation and aligns resources with Alabama’s economic goals.
As Reed prepares to announce his resignation officially at a caucus gathering on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at The Club in Birmingham, the focus has turned to who will take the reins in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston, Senate Majority Whip Clyde Chambliss, and Sen. Garlan Gudger have emerged as the top contenders.
Livingston, a seasoned lawmaker with deep establishment ties, is seen as the favorite among traditional Republicans. Gudger, a younger, staunch conservative, has galvanized support from newer members and those leaning further to the right. Chambliss, with his years of legislative experience, remains the wild card, capable of tipping the balance in an unpredictable vote.
“This will likely come down to the establishment-leaning Republicans versus the younger senators and the more conservative old guard,” one source noted. “My hope is that the senators will take their time and make a reasoned choice with deliberation.” Another source emphasized the gravity of the decision, warning, “This isn’t about choosing a flavor of the month—it’s about the long-term impact on the state and the Senate as an institution.”
Sources close to the caucus anticipate a razor-thin vote. “Livingston has strong support from the establishment, while Gudger has rallied younger senators and the more conservative bloc. Meanwhile, Chambliss’s extensive legislative experience could make him a surprising spoiler in this high-stakes race.
If the vote were held today, all signs point to a tight race, with six or seven undecided senators likely holding the key. As the clock ticks toward the vote, Alabama’s political future hangs in the balance, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for the state and its citizens.
Sen. Steve Livingston
Alabama State Senator, District 8
State Senator Steve Livingston represents Alabama’s 8th District, covering Jackson, DeKalb, and Madison counties. A member of the Republican Party, Livingston is known for his focus on economic development, rural broadband expansion, and infrastructure improvements across his district. As a seasoned business owner, he brings a background in telecommunications to his legislative work, frequently championing policies aimed at boosting Alabama’s economy and supporting small businesses. Livingston serves on multiple Senate committees, including the Committee on Finance and Taxation, where he advocates for fiscally conservative policies. Known for his pragmatic approach to governance, he is also vocal about the need for improving education and healthcare access in rural communities.
Sen. Garlan Gudger
Alabama State Senator, District 4
Senator Garlan Gudger represents Alabama’s 4th District, encompassing Cullman, Marion, and Winston counties. Elected in 2018, Gudger unseated an incumbent in the Republican primary and quickly established himself as a key conservative voice in the Alabama Senate. With a strong background in local government, Gudger previously served 14 years on the Cullman City Council, including a decade as council president, where he led efforts to revitalize the city following the 2011 tornadoes.
In the Senate, Gudger chairs the Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development Committee, advocating for responsible spending and economic growth. He also serves on influential committees, including Finance and Taxation, Education Policy, and County and Municipal Government, with a legislative focus on economic development, infrastructure, and conservative fiscal policies. Known for his commitment to community and practical governance, Gudger continues to prioritize initiatives that strengthen Alabama’s economy and support small businesses.
Sen. Clyde Chambliss
Alabama State Senator, District 30
Senator Clyde Chambliss has represented Alabama’s 30th District, covering parts of Autauga, Chilton, Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa counties, since his election in 2014. Chambliss, a civil engineer by trade and the founder of Chambliss Engineering, has leveraged his technical expertise to shape policies focused on infrastructure, public safety, and economic growth.
As a state senator, Chambliss has become known for his role in promoting conservative values and for his strong stance on social issues. In his legislative roles, Chambliss chairs the Confirmations Committee and the Local Legislation Committee and serves as vice chair of the Finance and Taxation General Fund Committee, reflecting his focus on fiscal responsibility and state governance.
Chambliss continues to advocate for policies that align his conservative values, supporting measures that prioritize fiscal responsibility and social issues.
