ALABAMA: On Monday morning, January 5 through January 23, the window opens for person wishing to seek election or re-election to political office.
Local races, you qualify with the local head of the party, Republican or Democrat. The Probate Judge in each county can answer who and how to contact. Those wishing to seek election as Independents have until the Election Day, May 5 ( I think is date ).
The Republican candidates and Democratic candidate face each other on May 5. The registered voters are not required to register as a Republican or Democrat. However, if you select to vote Republican or Democrat in the May 5 election, and there is a run off, you are required to vote in the same party race you voted in for a run off.
Then in November, the winner of the Republican Primary, the winner of the Democratic Primary and if an Independent, will face each other in the November race. In the November race the registered voters are allowed to vote for any candidate, Republican – Democrat or Independent. However, in a lot of races the race will be over on the May 2026 primary election date. As only 2 candidates and both are the same party.
So analyze the ballots real good when deciding what ballot in the May race you want.
STATE OFFICES
You qualify with the Alabama Repubican State Party and Alabama State Democratic Party. Your local Probate Judge can direct you there.
CANDIDATES
MAKE SURE you check the Alabama Secretary of State web site and download a copy of the candidate handbook. There are date deadlines for reports and raising money. Be sure, BE SURE to check that out and follow it to the letter.
