As a prelude to this year’s Power & Influence Top 50 list, launching April 1 in a special 15th anniversary year for Yellowhammer News, we are proud to continue a tradition that asks an important question in Alabama’s political landscape: 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.
RELATED: 2025 Power & Influence: Who’s Next? / 2024 Power & Influence: Who’s Next?
Today, we’re directing that insight into the next generation of Alabama leaders. The eleven 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.
Emory Cox
Special Assistant to the President for International Economic Relations
“I’m incredibly proud to see Emory receive this honor, but in no way am I surprised. Emory’s personable nature, vast policy knowledge, and sharp political instincts are far beyond his years.
He proved to be an incredible asset to my office and the State of Alabama during his four years as my Senior Economic Advisor, and is now playing a critical role in helping carry out President Trump’s economic agenda to help all Americans.
From Larry Kudlow to Kevin Hassett, Emory has learned under some of the most brilliant economic leaders in American history, while coming into his own as a leader in this space. One of the things I most admire about Emory is that his success has never caused him to forget where he came from.
He is a proud Pell City native and keeps his Alabama values at the forefront of everything he does.
Emory’s dedication to public service and his love for our great state will continue to bring about meaningful results in both Washington, D.C. and Alabama.”
– U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)
Maggie Oliver
Chief Development Officer, Alabama Port Authority
“In leadership and in economic development, vision and strategic focus are essential to driving meaningful growth. Maggie Oliver embodies both.
Throughout her time at the Alabama Port Authority, she has articulated a clear and compelling vision for how the Port has and will serve as a catalyst for economic development across our state – strengthening supply chains, attracting new industry, and expanding opportunities for Alabama businesses.
Maggie has a presence that commands a room, but more importantly, she pairs that presence with thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Alabama’s future.
I am excited to see her continued leadership at the Port and know she will have a positive impact on our state for many years to come.”
– Zeke Smith, Chairman, Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors
Harrison Adams
Alabama Department of Workforce
“As SGA president at the University of Alabama, Harrison Adams learned much about constituents and politics. He had interest early in his career to positively engage in state government policy growth.
He brought that interest and experience to my Senate President Pro Tem office growing strong relationships, while accomplishing much with our team.
He has spent the last 15 months navigating change that is yielding strong outcomes as a Deputy Secretary at the Alabama Department of Workforce.
His calm and efficient demeanor has elevated the department’s profile and effectiveness with all those he interacts with.
Harrison continues to impress me and many in our state as his impact through dedicated and effective public service continues to grow.”
– Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce
Kristin Hellmich
Director of External Communications, Poarch Creek Indians
“Kristin Hellmich leads with intention, listens carefully, and understands the responsibility that comes with telling the story of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Kristin approaches her work with respect for our history and a clear eye toward the future, ensuring our voice is represented accurately and authentically.
In a fast‑moving and often complicated political environment, her steady approach and sound judgment make a meaningful difference.”
– Stephanie Bryan, Chairwoman and CEO of Poarch Creek Indians
Phillip Johns
Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Farmers Federation
“As chief financial officer, Phillip has transformed the Federation’s accounting, membership and Alfa Health divisions through technology, professional development and expanded services for members and county Federations.
His investment strategies have resulted in record growth for Alabama FarmPAC and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, deepening the organization’s impact in both the political arena and philanthropic efforts such as scholarships and Ag in the Classroom. Last year, Phillip and his team led implementation of Alfa Health Plans, delivering an affordable health care option for members just five months after Gov. Kay Ivey signed the legislation into law.
Phillip is a graduate of the Alfa Leadership Academy, a successful small business owner and newly appointed member of the Dixie Electric Cooperative board of directors.
He is a devoted husband and father and embodies Alfa’s Core 4 Values of Faith, Family, Community and Integrity. Phillip is already building a legacy of leadership within our organization and certainly is deserving of recognition.”
– Paul Pinyan, Executive Director, Alabama Farmers Federation
Lindsey McAdory
CEO and Chief Strategist CBG Strategies, LLC
“Lindsey McAdory has many exceptional attributes. He’s a seasoned political storyteller who can frame the challenges facing our city and develop a plan of action.
He’s a builder — bringing people together, forging strong partnerships, and uniting leaders into coalitions that get things done. And when crisis situations arise, Lindsey excels at mapping out effective solutions.
But what truly sets Lindsey apart is his vision. He sees where Birmingham is headed, and he knows how to carve the path to get there.
He helps us turn potential into promise. Lindsey’s not just thinking about the next step forward; he’s charting the course for what comes next. His eyes are fixated on building a better Birmingham.”
– Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham
Saylor Cuzzort
Communications Director + Alabama Senate Republican Caucus
“It is rare to find a person who possesses true talent, innate instinct and abundant affability in the perfect balance, but one such person is Saylor Cuzzort.
Her love for this state and insatiable work ethic are exceeded only by her ability and her integrity.
Saylor’s impressive intelligence enables her to effectively analyze all facets of a complicated issue, but what most distinguishes her from other capable young people is her ability to act on her knowledge and timely execute the task at hand with grace and poise.
With everything she does, her kindness and humility shine through, and I’m excited to see all the ways in which she impacts our state and our nation for the better — she’s just getting started!”
– Caroleene Dobson, 2026 candidate, Alabama Secretary of State
Annie Dunne Meissner
Director of Finance and Events, Alabama Republican Party
“Annie Meissner has quickly become an invaluable leader on the Alabama Republican Party team.
As Director of Events and Finance, she has been instrumental in strengthening our fundraising efforts while planning and executing events that bring together grassroots supporters, donors, and Republican leaders from across Alabama.
If you’ve attended an ALGOP event recently, you’ve likely seen Annie’s work firsthand. She executed an incredibly successful Trump Victory Dinner featuring Donald Trump Jr., organized a sold-out Candidate Meet & Greet with Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, and leads numerous donor events that keep our supporters engaged.
Annie is absolutely a rising leader in Alabama politics.”
– Shannon Whitt, Chief of Staff, Alabama Republican Party
Anna Grace Gamble
External Affairs Manager, Alabama Rural Electric Association
“Anna Grace has been an exceptional addition to the Electric Cooperative family. She reflects the values and character of our members and has cultivated invaluable relationships with legislators and policymakers that help advance the cooperative mission.
She is thoughtful, professional, and well-regarded by those around her. She brings a steady presence to her work and approaches it with care. Those qualities have helped her make a positive impression early in her career, and will continue to do so.”
– Sean Strickler, Chief Operating Officer, Alabama Rural Electric Association
Scott McClintock
Vice president of Policy and Public Affairs, Business Council of Alabama
“Scott’s recognition on Yellowhammer’s ‘Who’s Next’ list is a well-deserved honor and a testament to the impact he has already made in Alabama’s policy and political landscape.
Scott brings a rare combination of strategic insight, policy expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing pro-growth, pro-business solutions for our state.
His leadership has strengthened BCA’s advocacy efforts and helped ensure the voice of Alabama’s job creators is heard clearly in Montgomery and beyond.
We are proud to see him recognized as one of the rising leaders shaping Alabama’s future.”
– Helena Duncan, President and CEO, Business Council of Alabama
Justice Smyth
Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority
“I couldn’t be more proud to see Justice receive this well-deserved recognition. His strategic thinking, uncompromising integrity, and commitment to results have made a real difference for our community and for economic development across our region.
He approaches every challenge with intelligence and purpose, and he does so with the kind of character that makes everyone around him better.
Justice represents the very best of what a young leader in this field can be, and I am confident his impact on our state will only continue to grow.”
– Tim Parker, III, President & CEO, Parker Towing Company
Yellowhammer News’ 15th Anniversary Power of Service event will be held on April 7, 2026 in Montgomery. The 2026 Power & Influence list will debut its first installment of 10 honorees on April 1, 2026. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact [email protected].
