As a prelude to this year’s Yellowhammer News Power & Influence Top 50 list, launching next week in its twelfth annual installment, we are proud to revive a tradition that asks an important question in the political landscape of Alabama: Who’s Next?
Year after year, Power & Influence offers the most candid insight into the top 50 influential leaders moving the needle in Montgomery across business, politics and public service — leveraging their influence to the benefit of Alabama.
Today, we’re directing that insight into the next generation of Alabama leaders. The nine individuals below are described in a quote from leaders speaking to their impact, effectiveness, and upward trajectory. They are each well on their way to running the state.
Preston Roberts
Alabama Farmers Federation
“Preston Roberts from Alfa has distinguished himself as a leader in agriculture and public policy through passionate advocacy for Alabama Farmers Federation members and unshakable integrity. He has excelled professionally while simultaneously earning a juris doctor and being a loving, engaged husband and father. Preston is guided by deep faith and driven by a commitment to give his best in every endeavor. We are proud Yellowhammer has recognized Preston’s servant leadership and are confident he will continue using his influence to benefit Federation members, his colleagues, and the state of Alabama.”
– Paul Pinyan, Executive Director of the Alabama Farmers Federation
Catherine Gayle Fuller
Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Alabama
“With a resume that includes service in the Governor’s Office, the Alabama Department of Revenue, and now the Lieutenant Governor’s Office, Catherine Gayle has earned her reputation as an expert on analyzing, understanding, and solving complex public policy issues. She is recognized by everyone on my staff as the ‘brains’ in the office, which is obvious as she works on her doctorate after already earning Masters and undergraduate degrees in political science. I am confident Catherine Gayle will help shape state policy in Alabama for many years to come, and we are fortunate she is devoting her God-given talents and abilities to our initiatives.”
– Will Ainsworth, Lieutenant Governor of Alabama
Gina Maiola
Office of the Governor of Alabama
“Part of the Ivey Administration since my first day as governor, Gina Maiola has proven herself as an invaluable asset, enhancing our engagement through responsible communication with both the media and Alabamians alike. Her dedication and exceptional skillset were evident from her earliest days and now have been mastered in her senior staff role as my communications director. With strategic acumen and a commitment to transparency, she has not only supported my administration’s promises and goals but has significantly contributed to the betterment of Alabama. I have every bit of confidence that her influence will continue to grow, bringing fresh ideas and strong leadership that will greatly impact our state’s progress.”
– Kay Ivey, Governor of Alabama
Rob Green
Alabama Department of Public Health
“There’s not a brighter, young star in Alabama politics than Rob Green. A lot of people work hard. He works harder. He works smarter. He doesn’t draw attention to himself, but people are figuring out in a hurry that he’s extremely capable and has the ear and the confidence of people all over state government. What’s also certain about Rob Green is that he is marrying well.”
– Steve Windom, Founder of Windom, Galliher & Associates
Harrison Proctor
Protective Life Corporation
“Since transitioning from Washington DC to our headquarters in Birmingham, Harrison has combined his advocacy, legal and business knowledge and experience to effectively represent Protective both in the legislature and in our trade groups. He has the right combination of substantive and strategic expertise for this role and we are confident in his abilities to advocate on behalf of our company, our employees and our policyholders.”
– Mary Pat Lawrence
William Heartsill
Direct Communications
“William has a resume that an operative twice his age would dream of having. He has worked with some of the biggest names in politics, government, and business and is just getting started. While his relationships in Alabama are impressive to say the least, he maintains a cool and humble demeanor at all times—a feat that I’d guess is challenging when you’re as skilled as William. I’ve never seen him break a sweat. He operates at one consistent speed and consistently achieves outstanding results, gives great advice, and works very, very hard.”
– R.B. Walker, Alabama Power Company
Jack Chambers
Maynard Nexsen
“From the moment he walked in the door, I could tell Jack had the tools to be successful in this business: natural political instincts and, more importantly, a killer work ethic. Jack effortlessly connects with clients and clearly sees the political landscape. At his young age, he has already become a great asset. My firm and I are proud that Yellowhammer has recognized Jack, and we know that we will see him on lists like this for years to come.”
– Raymond Bell, Maynard Nexsen Government Solutions Practice Shareholder
Caroline Franklin
Business Council of Alabama
“Caroline Franklin, above all, is wonderful. She has proven herself effective at every turn, from the halls of power at the State House in Montgomery to the U.S. Capitol in Washington. As Executive Director of BCA’s ProgressPAC, Caroline will leverage her influence and discernment to the victory and gain of pro-business candidates in every corner of Alabama in the 2026 election cycle and beyond. Her winning personality, along with her unmatched drive and commitment to the people who make our collective voice stronger than ever, is second to none. Caroline Franklin will be fun to watch.”
– Helena Duncan, Business Council of Alabama President & CEO
Luke Kiszla
Office of the Alabama House Minority Leader
“Luke Kiszla has been extraordinarily effective and successful in his role as Chief of Staff for the Alabama House Office of the Minority Leader. His keen and thorough knowledge of the law and the legislative process has been instrumental in our ability to pass meaningful legislation to improve the lives of our constituents. Most importantly, Luke understands the importance of building and maintaining professional partnerships. Whether it’s working with subject matter experts on a complex issue or crafting an amendment for a bill, Luke brings a rare combination of expertise, creativity, and positive energy to his work. ”
– Anthony Daniels, Minority Leader of the Alabama House of Representatives
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.