Overview
- Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones announced his gubernatorial bid on December 13, 2025.
- If both secure their parties’ nominations in May 2026, Jones could face Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who beat him by about 20 points in the 2020 Senate race.
- Alabama has not elected a Democratic governor since 1998, and reports cite roughly a 19% Republican advantage in voter registration.
- Critics point to Tuberville’s alignment with President Donald Trump and a series of racially charged remarks and gaffes during his Senate tenure.
- Commentary notes that 2025 GOP polling softness could offer Democrats a narrow opening in 2026, though Republicans remain favored in the state.