Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon notified Governor Kay Ivey today that he will retire from his post effective March 1, 2026.
The longtime North Alabama elected official has a career that has spanned law enforcement, state government, as well as local county leadership.
A native of Madison County, McCutcheon served 16 years in the Alabama House of Representatives representing District 25, which includes parts of Madison, Huntsville and surrounding communities.
He was elected by his colleagues as Speaker of the Alabama House in 2016 and was re-elected to that leadership position in 2019. He chose not to seek re-election in 2022 and stepped down from the Legislature later that year.
In January 2023, Governor Ivey appointed McCutcheon to serve as Madison County Commission Chairman, filling the remainder of the term vacated by Dale Strong after Strong’s election to the U.S. House of Representatives.
McCutcheon was subsequently elected to his first full term in November 2024.
Before entering elected office, McCutcheon served 25 years with the Huntsville Police Department, working in roles ranging from hostage negotiation to probation officer, and has also worked as a farmer and associate pastor.
McCutcheon’s letter reads:
Dear Gov. Ivey,
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I will be retiring from my position as Chairman of the Madison County Commission effective March 1, 2026.
Reflecting on my journey, I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride and fulfillment. From the challenges we overcame to the triumphs we celebrated, every moment has been invaluable. My career has been more than a job, it has been a significant part of my life’s story, enriched by the incredible people that I have had the honor to serve.
After spending many years dedicated to my career, I have realized the importance of prioritizing quality time with my family.
Thank you for your support and guidance. I am sincerely grateful for your friendship.
McCutcheon’s retirement sets up a consequential next step in one of Alabama’s fastest-growing counties.
Under Alabama law, “any vacancy on the county commission shall be filled by appointment by the Governor,” unless a local law specifically authorizes a special election.
According to the same statute, if the governor’s appointment occurs at least 30 days before the close of party qualifying, the appointee serves only until shortly after the next general election, and the remainder of the term is filled by election.
McCutcheon’s March 1, 2026 retirement is after Alabama Republican Party candidate qualifying is scheduled to close on January 23, 2026.
Courtesy of 256 Today.
