Alabama Governor Kay Ivey reaffirmed her confidence in Huntsville as the future home of the U.S. Space Command headquarters, issuing a strong statement Wednesday to Yellowhammer News in response to recent comments by Congressman Mike Rogers.

“The facts are the facts, and we remain confident that for that reason, Space Command Headquarters will be in its rightful home in Huntsville, Alabama,” Ivey said. “Congressman Rogers, as well as Senators Tuberville and Britt and our entire delegation, have done yeomen’s work to ensure fairness returns to the process and that HQ comes home.”

Ivey’s statement comes on the heels of remarks from Rogers (R-Saks), chair of the House Armed Services Committee, who announced on Auburn University’s “Cyber Focus” podcast that a final decision on the headquarters location is expected this month.

The move to Huntsville has long been a topic of political debate, but recent momentum, including Rogers’ comments and broad support from Alabama’s congressional delegation, suggests the long-anticipated transition is nearing reality. Huntsville is already a major hub for space and missile defense programs.

Rogers also noted that the region is well-positioned to support a potential missile defense initiative modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome, dubbed the “Golden Dome.”

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].