Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced on Tuesday that he will not be pursuing a run for governor in 2026, effectively taking himself out of consideration for the upcoming election. The Republican attorney general, who has held his current position since 2017, made this decision after consulting with his wife last month.
Marshall emphasized that this decision, made over the Thanksgiving holiday, felt like the right choice for him and his family at this time. “Definitely not running for governor,” he stated, indicating that while he won’t be seeking the governor’s office, he is still committed to a future in politics and public service.
Governor Kay Ivey’s term is nearing its conclusion, which is expected to lead to a highly competitive race for her position. As various candidates eye the governorship, Marshall had previously been considered a significant contender in the field.
Despite ruling out a gubernatorial campaign, Marshall confirmed that he has held discussions with the incoming Trump administration regarding potential future roles. However, he reiterated his commitment to completing his term as attorney general. “I’m very lucky and love being attorney general,” he expressed, intending to stay in the role and maintain the momentum established over the past eight years.
Under his leadership, Alabama’s attorney general’s office has taken a strong stance against numerous policies from the Biden administration, collaborating with fellow Republican states on various legal challenges. Marshall’s office also has been notable for advancing Alabama’s involvement with nitrogen gas methods for executions, with implementation plans set for 2025.
As Alabama prepares for a shifting political landscape, Marshall’s decision could open new opportunities for other aspiring candidates while allowing him to continue his work in a critical role for the state.
This announcement brings a mix of clarity and anticipation to Alabama’s political scene, paving the way for new leaders to emerge for the next election cycle. It’s a reminder that public service can take many forms, and those in leadership roles can continue to contribute significantly in the positions they hold.