The Electric Cooperatives of Alabama Political Action Committee, the political arm of the Alabama Rural Electric Association (AREA) has announced its endorsement of Derek Chen for State Auditor and Chris Beeker for Alabama Public Service Commission Place 2.
The PAC’s board of directors, made up of electric cooperative leaders from across Alabama, approved the endorsements to advance rural communities and pro-energy policies.
“Derek Chen is a bright young leader who cares deeply about Alabama’s future,” said Karl Rayborn, CEO of AREA. “We are confident he has the knowledge and drive to serve the people of Alabama well as state auditor.”
Chen, a resident of Vestavia Hills, earned his undergraduate degree from Hope College in Michigan before moving to Alabama, where he received a law degree from Cumberland School of Law and an MBA from the University of Alabama. He practiced law in Jefferson County before running for State Auditor.
Born in the United States to legal immigrants from Taiwan who had fled Communist China, he credits his family’s journey with shaping his commitment to responsible citizenship and limited government.
“AREA plays a vital role in strengthening Alabama’s communities and ensuring families and businesses have reliable, affordable energy,” said Chen. “I’m grateful for their support and look forward to working alongside them to keep Alabama’s energy future strong.”
“Sound energy policy is essential to Alabama’s future as it affects jobs, economic growth and the strength of our communities,” said Sean Strickler, VP of External Affairs at AREA. “Chris Beeker understands both the policy and the people it impacts, and we are proud to support him for a full term on the PSC.”
A native of rural Alabama and resident of Tuscaloosa, Beeker previously served as USDA Rural Development director for Alabama under President Donald Trump, where he helped secure funding for water systems, broadband, housing, and infrastructure in rural communities. Beeker also has more than a decade of experience in banking, finance and business.
Beeker, who was appointed to the Commission in 2024 by Governor Kay Ivey, welcomed the endorsement.
“Growing up in Greene County, I saw firsthand how electric cooperatives support families, farms and small businesses in rural Alabama,” Beeker said. “That experience has stayed with me, and I know how important it is to ensure rural communities continue to thrive. I am grateful for this endorsement and for the vital work our co-ops do across the state.”
The endorsements reflect the collective support of Alabama’s electric cooperatives and underscore AREA’s commitment to strengthening rural communities and advancing progress.
The 2026 primary is on Tuesday, May 19.
Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at [email protected]
