Jesse Battles, a lifelong resident of Etowah County and local business owner and farmer, has announced his candidacy for the Alabama State Senate, launching a campaign to unseat incumbent Senator Andrew Jones in the 2026 Republican primary.
In a statement shared on Facebook, Battles said he was encouraged by community members to run after months of expressing concerns about the district’s current representation. “I’ve listened, and I’m ready to answer that call,” Battles wrote.
A self-described conservative, Battles emphasized his commitment to defending what he termed “Alabama values,” outlining a platform focused on social issues, education reform, veterans’ support, and economic development. He voiced strong opposition to policies such as Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and expressed support for former President Donald Trump.
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Battles criticized Jones’s legislative record, claiming the incumbent supported bills that negatively affected local businesses, veterans, and municipal funding for essential services. He accused Jones of sponsoring legislation that targeted a local employer and introduced measures that centralized decisions about veteran representation in Montgomery. He also alleged that Jones pushed for revenue-related changes without providing local governments a plan to offset potential losses in public safety funding.
On policy, Battles pledged to work with local officials to attract new industries to Northeast Alabama, invest in infrastructure improvements such as the extension of I-759 and a new Southside Bridge, and support local agriculture and law enforcement. He also cited plans to address inflation and trade issues affecting farmers and consumers.
Battles brings a background in public service and civic engagement. He previously worked with the Alabama Secretary of State’s Office on Voter ID enforcement and cost-saving initiatives, and currently serves on the Gadsden-Etowah Industrial Development Authority Board and leads the Gadsden Rotary Club. He is also a graduate of Gadsden State Community College and Jacksonville State University, where he founded a College Republican chapter.
“This isn’t about politics – it’s about people,” Battles wrote in his announcement. “Let’s bring leadership back home.”
The Alabama Republican primary for State Senate District 10 is set for May 19, 2026.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
