A decorated special forces veteran residing in Baldwin County has launched a campaign to become the next representative of Alabama’s 1st Congressional District.
In a statement announcing his bid on Tuesday, Joshua McKee, pledged to ‘carry the America First banner and keep Alabama’s voice strong on the national stage.’
“Washington’s spending, open borders, and attacks on our constitutional rights are eroding the nation we fought for,” McKee said.
“I’ve battled America’s enemies overseas – now I’m ready to defeat the enemies of freedom here at home. Alabama’s 1st District is ready for the next chapter of conservative leadership. I will fight for our families, defend our values, and ensure Washington works for the people. Not the other way around.”
The Bronze Star recipient expressed appreciation and admiration for the office’s current occupant, Congressman Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), who is vacating the role after launching a run of his own for the U.S. Senate. McKee vowed to continue Moore’s tradition of advocacy for the district.
“Barry Moore has been a principled voice for our district. I intend to honor that legacy and take the fight even further. For our borders, our freedoms, and the America First agenda,” he said.
McKee’s campaign priorities, as listed in the campaign announcement, include:
- Securing the Border & Crush the Cartels with the same tactical precision he used in combat.
- Defending Constitutional Rights with zero compromise, especially the Second Amendment.
- Putting America First by protecting American jobs, rebuilding manufacturing, and ending foreign dependency.
- Reforming the VA so no veteran is abandoned.
- Ending Washington Waste and returning power to states, communities, and families.
McKee lives in Baldwin County with his wife, Jennifer. His life story from childhood to Special Forces leadership is detailed in Built Without Applause.
Former Congressman Jerry Carl has also kicked off a campaign to retake the district he lost in 2024 to Barry Moore, with State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) also expected to announce a run for the seat as a Republican.
The GOP primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
