Manufacture Alabama, the state’s leading voice for manufacturers and industrial employers, today announced its endorsement of two political newcomers with business backgrounds seeking election to the Alabama State Senate: Doug Harwell in Senate District 34 and John Roberts in Senate District 2.
According to the group, their endorsements reflect Manufacture Alabama’s confidence in both candidates’ commitment to strengthening Alabama’s manufacturing economy, supporting job creation, and advancing policies that keep the state competitive for industrial growth.
“Manufacturing is the backbone of Alabama’s economy, and it requires leaders who understand the importance of workforce development, infrastructure investment, and a stable, pro-business climate,” said Jon Barganier, President and CEO of Manufacture Alabama.
“John Roberts and Doug Harwell bring fresh perspectives, strong leadership qualities, and a clear understanding of what it takes to help manufacturers succeed in their communities and across the state. Both candidates recognize that manufacturing jobs provide long-term economic stability and opportunity for Alabamians.”
Harwell is a Mobile County businessman and former Mobile County Board of Education member who served roughly a dozen years representing the Semmes/Citronelle area.
A longtime concrete and asphalt contractor, he owns Harwell & Company and is running for the open seat following State Sen. Jack Williams’ (R-Wilmer) launching his campaign for Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries.
“I am thankful to have the endorsement of Manufacture Alabama, and it shows that our campaign is building momentum and our message is resonating,” said Doug Harwell.
“Whether it is aerospace, automotive, or shipbuilding, manufacturing helps drive our economy, and I look forward to working in the Senate to incentivize growth and recruit new industry to our state.”
Roberts is a Huntsville-area commercial real estate and economic development professional who serves as real estate and development manager for Freedom Real Estate & Capital. He’s running for the Senate District 2 seat being vacated by retiring State Sen. Tom Butler (R-Madison).
He previously worked in business recruitment and retention at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber and helped launch the North Alabama Homebuilding Academy, a workforce training initiative recognized with an AlabamaWorks Innovator Award in 2021.
“I’m honored to earn the endorsement of Manufacture Alabama,” said John Roberts.
“Manufacturing plays a vital role in Alabama’s economy by creating good-paying jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening communities across our state. If Alabama is going to compete and lead nationally, a strong manufacturing base is essential, and I look forward to being a strong advocate for manufacturers of all sizes in the State Senate.”
