Manufacture Alabama announces 2026 endorsements of pro-business judicial candidates

(YHN)

Manufacture Alabama announced its slate of judicial endorsements for the 2026 election cycle, backing six incumbent judges across the state’s three appellate courts.

The pro-manufacturing trade association is endorsing the reelection campaigns of:

  • Supreme Court Justice Brad Mendheim

  • Supreme Court Justice Greg Shaw

  • Court of Civil Appeals Judge Ben Bowden

  • Court of Civil Appeals Judge Matt Fridy

  • Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Mary Windom

  • Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Beth Kellum

“Alabama’s appellate courts play a critical role in shaping the legal landscape for our citizens and businesses alike,” said Jon Barganier, president of Manufacture Alabama.

“Manufacture Alabama and our member companies are proud to stand with these incumbents, who have demonstrated a strong respect for the rule of law, consistent fairness in their decisions, and a recognition of the important role business and industry play in Alabama’s economy. Their proven records give us confidence that they will continue to serve the people of Alabama with distinction.”

The endorsements cover the Alabama Supreme Court, the Court of Civil Appeals, and the Court of Criminal Appeals. All six endorsed candidates are incumbents seeking reelection in 2026.

Manufacture Alabama is the state’s only trade association dedicated exclusively to the competitive, legislative, regulatory, and operational interests of manufacturers and their partner industries.

The Alabama Republican Party primary election will be held on May 19, 2026.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.