The Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) on Tuesday announced its endorsement of State Sen. Shay Shelnutt (R-Trussville) in his reelection bid for the Alabama State Senate, serving District 17.
Shelnutt, currently a Trussville realtor, formerly served as a math teacher and coach for a decade at Clay-Chalkville High School and Oneonta High School. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Montevallo.
In announcing its endorsement of the senator, the AFA referenced Shelnutt’s comments when he first ran for the upper chamber as proof that he has remained true to his core principles.
Shelnutt stated in 2014, “We do not need higher taxes. Let me be crystal clear on this issue – I am opposed to higher taxes. My first question when it comes to spending is: ‘Do we need it?’ My second question is: ‘When the recession comes again, can we cut it?'”
AFA president and CEO Chris Isaacson praised the senator for remaining steadfast in his commitment to a conservative governing philosophy.
“Shay is one of those rare legislators that consistently votes his convictions every single time,” said Isaacson. “There are no surprises with him. Since he first campaigned for office and during his service, his core principle has been promoting limited government. We are fortunate to have someone with his commitment serving in the Legislature and we are proud to support him in his bid for reelection.”
Shelnutt said his motivation in serving is to forge a brighter future for the next generation of Alabamians.
“I decided to run for office because of my own children,” said Shelnutt. “I wanted to do what I could to bring some fiscal sanity to this state and to fight for quality education and children. To be endorsed by the Alabama Forestry Association is an honor. Their continued fight for private property rights and financially responsible governance is a mission that I support and appreciate.”
Shelnutt and his wife Paige have been supporters of youth groups through their church, where Paige is a youth pastor. Their family serves groups such as the Royal Family Kids Camp and Just Keep Smiling, a non-profit devoted to supporting families of critically ill children.
Senate District 17 covers all or parts of Jefferson, Blount, St. Clair and Talladega Counties.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
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