Two influential statewide organizations have endorsed Vestavia Hills attorney Derek Chen for the open position of State Auditor.
Chen picked up endorsements of Manufacture Alabama and the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA).
This is Chen’s first political race. He previously worked in the Alabama Secretary of State’s office and the Tuscaloosa District Attorney’s office. He holds a law degree from Birmingham’s Cumberland School of Law and an MBA from the University of Alabama.
Chen is a staunch supporter of President Trump and a frequent visitor to Trump’s home at Mar-a-Lago.
Manufacture Alabama represents hundreds of companies – from recognized international corporations to small, family-owned operations – that share common interests and face similar competitive challenges.
“Manufacture Alabama endorses Derek Chen because he understands that accountability and transparency are essential to an effective state government for the people of Alabama,” Jon Barganier, President of Manufacture Alabama said.
“Derek’s commitment to responsible stewardship and his passion for public service are welcome additions to the growing list of the next generation of leaders in Alabama. We’re pleased to offer him our full endorsement for State Auditor.”
“Chen has built a reputation for disciplined, detail-oriented leadership and a focus on taxpayer value. As State Auditor, he has pledged to strengthen internal controls, modernize reporting, and ensure the public has clear insight into how state assets are tracked and protected.”
Chen said the group’s endorsement meant a great deal because, “their members know how damaging inefficiency and waste can be.”
“In the private sector, you cannot afford to lose track of resources or operate without accountability. State government should be no different. As Auditor, I will make sure Alabamians get a clear, honest accounting of how their assets are managed,” Chen said.
The largest farm organization in Alabama, the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA), has endorsed Chen.
The endorsement, announced through ALFA’s political arm Alabama FarmPAC, signals growing momentum for Chen’s campaign as he seeks to bring transparency and accountability to one of Alabama’s most overlooked constitutional offices.
Chen expressed gratitude for the endorsement in a series of Facebook posts:
“I’m honored to have the endorsement of the Alabama Farmers Federation,” Chen posted. “ALFA members know what it means to run things efficiently, account for every dollar, and do the job with integrity. That is exactly how I will approach the role of State Auditor.”
The endorsement was made at ALFA’s annual FarmPAC meeting in Montgomery, where candidates presented their platforms to farm leaders representing all 67 counties. Many candidates have also spoken at ALFA county meetings.
ALFA President Jimmy Parnell emphasized the weight of the Federation’s support: “Candidates often say the auditorium where we hold the FarmPAC meeting is the most intimidating venue in state politics. That’s because they understand the value of our grassroots endorsement”.
Chen’s message to voters has focused on restoring public trust in government operations. “I will bring transparency, accountability, and common sense to a government that too often forgets who it works for,” he posted. “As Auditor, I’ll ensure taxpayers know where their money goes, and that it’s being used wisely.”
ALFA and Manufacture Alabama join a growing list of organizations backing Chen’s candidacy, including the Alabama Rural Electric Association of Cooperatives and the Alabama Forestry Association.
The Republican primary is on May 19, 2026.
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 a former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at [email protected]
