A qualifying window for the state’s 2026 Republican primary election was set this weekend by the Alabama Republican Party.

During its Summer Meeting in Montgomery on Saturday, the party passed its annual primary resolution, setting, Monday, January 5, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. as the official opening time and date of qualifying for GOP candidates.

“We’re excited that the 2026 election cycle is almost upon us,” said ALGOP Chief of Staff Shannon Whitt.

“This resolution formally opens the door for candidates to begin the qualifying process and sets clear expectations for the months ahead. It’s a big moment, and we’re looking forward to a strong slate of Republican candidates ready to fight for conservative values across Alabama.”

Under the resolution, Republican candidates seeking state or federal office (excluding county-level offices) may begin qualifying on January 5, 2026 with qualifying officially closing at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 23, 2026. The close of qualifying is mandated by the Alabama Constitution.

The resolution also establishes qualification fees, filing procedures, and the composition of the Candidate Committee tasked with reviewing candidate submissions.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten