Former University of Alabama defensive end and NFL player Wallace Gilberry has announced he’s withdrawing from the Republican nomination in Alabama’s newly-drawn 2nd Congressional District.
Gilberry announced his run in November.
“I’m not a politician, but my heart has always been in helping Alabama and helping our people better themselves. The response we’ve received over the last month in this campaign has been humbling and I’m blown away by it. After reflecting over Christmas and New Years, I have come to the decision that this race, at this time, is not the right place for me to help my community, so I will be stepping aside,” Gilberry said in a statement posted to social media.
— Wallace Gilberry (@WallaceGilberry) January 8, 2024
“But I am never going to quit on Alabama. Or on you. I will continue to serve our communities and be involved in any and every way I can to fight out-of-touch liberal politicians and too many bad policies that are hurting people and making life tougher every day. I love you all and look forward to seeing you around Alabama very soon and may God bless you all.”
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Gilberry, a native of Bay Minette, Alabama, was a standout athlete during his time at the University of Alabama. He finished his college career with 160 tackles (46 of them for a loss), 15 sacks, and three forced fumbles.
Gilberry’s senior season was Nick Saban’s first at Alabama in 2007. After, he went onto the NFL, where he spent nine seasons on various teams including the Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs.
Several candidates remain in the GOP primary for the 2nd Congressional District, including State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), former State Sen. Dick Brewbaker (R-Pike Road), and Montgomery attorney Caroleene Dobson.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP
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