Candidate for Alabama Lt. Governor in 2026 John Wahl says he’s proud that the Legislature passed a grocery tax holiday during this year’s session, which is now in effect, but doesn’t believe it goes far enough.
Wahl, former Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party, is calling for the grocery tax to be eliminated permanently, and says he’s making it an essential issue in his campaign.
Wahl discussed the issue recently on WVNN’s “The Yaffee Program.”
“Families across Alabama are feeling the pressure every time they check out at the grocery store,” Wahl said. “That’s why I strongly advocated for this grocery tax suspension as Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party. Any relief right now is a good thing, and this is a step in the right direction.”
Last month, Governor Kay Ivey signed a bill into law that temporarily suspends the state’s 2% grocery tax for the next two months. The measure was part of a legislative package introduced by State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville) and State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur).
“Let’s be clear, this should not be temporary,” Wahl continued. “Taxing groceries is one of the most unfair burdens we place on our people. It hits working families, seniors, and those on fixed incomes the hardest. While I’m glad to see temporary relief begin, I will not stop or rest until we eliminate the grocery tax permanently.”
Wahl highlighted the long term benefits of eliminating the tax altogether.
“When families have more money in their pockets, they spend it in their communities,” he said. “That strengthens small businesses, supports local economies, and helps Alabama grow the right way, from the ground up.”
Wahl is running for the position against Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen.
“This isn’t a new issue for me,” he added said. “I’ve been fighting to cut the grocery tax for years because it’s the right thing to do. As Lieutenant Governor, I’ll take that fight to the next level and make sure it gets across the finish line.”
Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee
