Governor-elect U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville issued his thanks on Wednesday afternoon to Doug Jones for the kind words he shared after a belabored concession in the 2026 gubernatorial election.
Tuberville claimed victory and addressed supporters last night in Auburn just before 10:30 p.m. By around 11:00 p.m., Doug Jones told supporters and the media that the race was not actually over, he was not conceding, and ballots in Jefferson and Montgomery counties could tilt the election in his favor. That was not the case.
This afternoon, Jones issued a written statement, thanking supporters, boasting Democrat gains made in the state, and surprisingly, congratulating Tuberville.
“I congratulate Tommy Tuberville on his victory, and I sincerely hope he will work to make life better for every Alabamian. He deserves our support as he and his administration tackle the tough issues ahead,” Jones wrote.
“But the responsibility for Alabama’s future doesn’t rest with one person. It belongs to all of us. I encourage every Alabamian to stay involved, to hold our elected leaders accountable, and to make sure their voices are heard, not just on election day, but every day.”
My sincere thanks to all of our supporters who helped us along this amazing journey. I congratulate Tommy Tuberville on his election and sincerely hope he works to build an Alabama for everyone. pic.twitter.com/x19Tww0foJ
— Doug Jones (@DougJones) November 4, 2026
In response, Governor-elect Tuberville said that is indeed his goal, and he looks forward to representing “every single Alabamian.”
“Suzanne and I are grateful for every single person who supported my campaign,” Tuberville said.
“I love Alabama and am proud to be elected as our state’s 55th Governor. I appreciate Doug’s kind words and look forward to representing every single Alabamian, even the ones who didn’t vote for me. When I’m Governor, I will focus on boosting our economy, making life more affordable, getting criminals off the streets, improving our schools, and eliminating waste in Montgomery.”
Tuberville secured 52.0% of the vote on Tuesday to a backdrop that provided all statewide GOP constitutional office-seekers a victory, yet was catastrophic for most Republicans nationwide, even across the deep south. He takes office on January 18, 2027 — now just 75 days away.
“Alabama’s best is yet to come and we can’t wait to get started,” Tuberville added.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
