The Yellowhammer Power & Influence 50 is an annual list of the 50 most powerful and influential players in Alabama politics and business — the men and women who shape the state.
Today, we’re taking a look forward to the next generation of Alabama leaders. The individuals below are well on their way to landing on future Power & Influence 50 lists.
Don’t miss Yellowhammer’s 3rd Annual Power of Service reception honoring the men and women on the Power & Influence 50 list who leverage their stature to make a positive impact on the state. The event is set to take place Thursday, September 14th at Ross Bridge Resort in Birmingham. Past events attracted a who’s who of Alabama politics and business, including the Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, Pro Tem of the Senate, members of Congress, dozens of state legislators and many of the state’s top executives, lobbyists, opinion leaders and political activists. For more information on the event click here and to purchase tickets click here.
State Rep. Will Ainsworth
An owner of the beautiful Dream Ranch in north Alabama, Will Ainsworth is finishing his first term in the Alabama House. The vocal conservative and former youth pastor is now trying to elevate his statewide profile and influence as he pursues the Lt. Governor’s office in 2018.
Matt Calderone, Deputy Board Secretary, University of Alabama System
Matt Calderone helps make the wheels turn for one of the most powerful boards in the state. The former SGA President at Alabama also occupies a seat on the Tuscaloosa City Council. Calderone has natural instincts for building relationships and leveraging his influence.
Will Califf, Communications Director for President Pro Tem Del Marsh
Will Califf is next in the generation of political players making a name for themselves in the halls of the Alabama State House. Known for being a brilliant campaign operative, Califf has carved out a critical role running the Pro Tem’s communications team.
Mary Margaret Carroll, Lobbyist, Fine Geddie
Mary Margaret Carroll has been on track as a power and influence riser for a long time. Carroll is a former SGA President at the University of Alabama and Capitol Hill staffer who has transitioned quickly and effectively to working the halls of state government. Her future is bright, whether in Montgomery or Washington, D.C.
Preston Cauthen, Lobbyist, Alabama Power Company
Preston Cauthen is next in a long line of lobbyists who have worked their way up the political pecking order through the state’s most powerful institution. Walking the halls of the State House on behalf of Alabama Power Company is a great way to ignite a career for anyone. Throw in Cauthen’s friendly, approachable demeanor and you have someone who is clearly “next.”
Collier Craft, President, Direct Communications
Effective grass roots communications are essential to success in politics, and that’s the bread and butter of Collier Craft’s business. He has been the lead on successful statewide issue campaigns and knows the ins and outs of coalition building. Whether you realize it or not, you will see more and more of his work in the future.
Jason Davis, Lobbyist, Alabama Power Company
Few, if any, lobbyists are better able to grasp the details and nuances of public policy as well as Jason Davis. When there are bills winding through the legislative process that affect the reliable delivery of electricity, in any way, Davis is the guy on call. He is a valuable member of Alabama Power’s governmental affairs team, and he is trusted by legislators for his insight on the issues.
Brandon Demyan, Policy Director and Legal Counsel for President Pro Tem Del Marsh
Brandon Demyan is what conservative movement folks call a “true believer.” He is also heavily involved in shaping the Pro Tem’s agenda on key conservative issues like education freedom and tax reform. Don’t be surprised if Demyan becomes a primary driver of conservative policy reforms in Alabama for years to come.
Jason Isbell, Vice President of Legal and Governmental Affairs, Alabama Bankers Association
In what seems like a short amount of time, Jason Isbell has acquired years of experience working in and around state government. He has worked in the Legislative Fiscal Office, the Office of the Speaker, and now he heads up the lobbying effort for Alabama’s banking industry. A lawyer by trade, who also teaches a law class at the Jones School of Law, Isbell is just now hitting his stride in Alabama politics.
Ross Gunnells, Lobbyist, Butler Snow
Ross Gunnells is helping lead the recently formed lobbying practice at Butler Snow. Having walked the halls at the State House as Legislative Director for former Governor Robert Bentley, Gunnells knows the process and the people. Expect to see him in even more legislative battles in future sessions.
Clay Loftin, Lobbyist, BlueCross BlueShield
Ever since Clay Loftin accepted the coveted job as deputy to powerhouse BlueCross BlueShield lobbyist Robin Stone, he has done nothing but impress as a dedicated and knowledgeable advocate for the state’s largest insurer. State House observers expect big things from Loftin.
Holly Lollar, President, The Lollar Group
Holly Lollar is on track to become Alabama’s next go-to public relations expert. She carries with her a full spectrum of experience from work in Washington, D.C. to Alabama political campaigns with corporate and non-profit communications work in between. In the coming years, Lollar will remain on speed dial for power players wanting to stay ahead of the news cycle.
Scott Stone, Scott Stone & Company
Scott Stone cut his teeth as a political consultant working on some of the key battles for judicial seats in previous election cycles. He is now working as one of the primary consultants with Steve Raby on Republican House races. A successful cycle for Stone will open up a wealth of even greater opportunities.
Derek Trotter, Lobbyist, Butler Snow
Derek Trotter is another up and coming power player who has amassed great experience in a short amount of time. He has led the communications effort for a statewide campaign and the Pro Tem of the Alabama Senate, and he has been the legislative liaison for a governor. Trotter currently serves as a key member of the relatively new lobbying practice at Butler Snow. Combine that experience with the relationships he has built and it is no surprise he resides on this list.
Taylor Vice, Director of Government Affairs, Charter Communications
Taylor Vice already has the reputation as one of the sharpest operators among business lobbyists. Vice’s knowledge of state government and its key players are part of the reason why he is perceived to be mature beyond his years. Sound advice: buy stock in Taylor Vice.
Jeremy Walker, CEO, Alabama Association of Realtors
Jeremy Walker transitioned seamlessly from an active law practice to being the lead lobbyist at the Alabama Association of Realtors. Walker’s subsequent transition to leading up the organization has been even smoother. As Walker settles into his duties as Chief Executive Officer for the 14,000 member association, expect to hear plenty more from this rising star.
Taylor Williams, PowerSouth
Taylor Williams has built a strong resume in the governmental affairs and economic development sector for PowerSouth. He continues to climb the ladder with added responsibilities in the operations side of PowerSouth’s business. Williams is on a steady trajectory that will leave him as one of the state’s business leaders for the long-term.
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