Special election date set for Rep. South seat

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July 7, 2023

A special election for Alabama House District 16, recently vacated by Kyle South, has been set for the fall, Gov. Kay Ivey announced today.

South stepped down last month to assume the role of president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. The district includes portions of Fayette, Jefferson, and Tuscaloosa counties.

Ivey scheduled the special primary election for Sept. 26. If necessary, a special primary runoff will take place Oct. 24. The special general election is scheduled for Jan. 9, 2024.

In her statement, Ivey recognized South’s contributions during his nine years of service.

“Rep. South has served the people of House District 16 well for the past nine years and will continue to do so in his new role as president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. He certainly leaves big shoes to fill in the Legislature,” she said.

Despite the void left by South’s resignation, Ivey expressed optimism for the upcoming election and encouraged constituents to participate.

“I am incredibly happy for him and confident he will continue serving West Alabama well,” she said. “I encourage everyone in this district to get out and vote during this special election to ensure you have another strong voice advocating for you in the Alabama Legislature.”

The deadline for qualifying with major political parties is 5 p.m. July 25. Independent candidates and/or minor parties have until 5 p.m. Sept. 26 to qualify.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270