Manufacture Alabama Announces Endorsements for Statewide Races
\n\nManufacture Alabama has endorsed Republicans John Wahl for lieutenant governor, Jim Zeigler for Public Service Commission Place 2, and Corey Hill for commissioner of agriculture and industries ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.
\n\nThe trade association announced the additional endorsements as it continues backing candidates in statewide, congressional, and legislative races this election cycle. The group represents hundreds of manufacturers and related businesses, ranging from international corporations to small, family-owned operations, and works on legislative, regulatory, and operational issues.
\n\nJon Barganier, president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama, emphasized the organization's priorities in the endorsement announcement.
\n\n\"Alabama’s manufacturing industry depends on sound policies, reliable and affordable energy and a business environment that encourages continued investment,\" Barganier said. \"We believe it’s important to build relationships with leaders who understand what manufacturers need to compete, grow and create opportunities for hardworking Alabamians.\"
\n\nCandidates Respond to Endorsements
\n\nJohn Wahl, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, accepted the endorsement by highlighting his background as a small-business owner.
\n\n\"I am proud to receive the endorsement of Manufacture Alabama and the hardworking men and women who power some of our state’s most important industries,\" Wahl said. \"Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Alabama’s success, providing good-paying jobs, strengthening our communities, and creating opportunities for future generations.\"
\n\nWahl pledged to focus on workforce development as lieutenant governor.
\n\n\"As Lieutenant Governor, I will never stop working to make Alabama the best state in America to manufacture, invest, and do business,\" Wahl said. \"I look forward to working alongside our manufacturing community to strengthen our workforce and create economic opportunities for our state.\"
\n\nCorey Hill, running for commissioner of agriculture and industries, also acknowledged the support.
\n\n\"I am honored to have the endorsement of the men and women of Manufacture Alabama,\" Hill said. \"As the Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, I will work closely with industry to ensure that we have the best environment possible to grow and create jobs across the state.\"
\n\nElection Details and Opponents
\n\nJim Zeigler, the Republican candidate for Public Service Commission Place 2, focused his response on energy infrastructure needs.
\n\n\"Alabama must be prepared for a huge increase in power demand over the next six years,\" Zeigler said. \"I will work with all stakeholders to stay ahead of the need and ensure that business and residential customers do not bear the cost of the new developments.\"

