Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego on Monday announced his endorsement of Russell Bedsole in the special election for Alabama House of Representatives District 49.
A longtime public servant, Bedsole has 21 years of experience with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
“As a longtime member of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Bedsole knows firsthand how crucial law and order are to our nation,” Samaniego said in a statement. “Bedsole will be a powerful voice in the Alabama House of Representatives. He will fight for the hardworking law enforcement officers and first responders serving our communities.”
Bedsole is running in the Republican primary for the seat vacated by former State Rep. April Weaver (R-Brierfield) resigning to join the Trump administration. Bedsole announced his candidacy for the open District 49 seat on June 2.
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He has also been elected twice previously by the citizens of Alabaster to the city council. Bedsole has already received an endorsement from the Shelby County Fraternal Order of Police in the HD 49 race.
“I have spent many successful years with my family by my side serving my community and demonstrating the type of leadership the people of District 49 will appreciate,” Bedsole stated when announcing his candidacy. “I am patient enough to listen to those who have something to say, but bold enough to speak up for those who feel like they do not have a voice.”
“I believe that life starts at conception, that the 2nd amendment should be protected, that our taxes need to be low and fair, and that our cities and counties need their fair share of infrastructure support,” he added.
A release from Bedsole’s campaign advised that he “will work to improve District 49’s infrastructure and traffic flow, increase economic development, and advance school systems” if elected to the House.
The special primary election will be held on August 4. If a run-off election is needed, it will be held on September 1. The special general election will be held on November 17.
“I humbly ask for your vote on August 4th to allow me to serve District 49,” Bedsole said.
Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
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