‘A loss does not define me’: Longtime lawmaker takes to social media after losing her seat
Juandalynn Givan's political rivalry with Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin culminated in her primary defeat to his former staffer, Alicia Escott Lumpkin.
Ethan Parker 
After a hard-fought primary election, longtime State Representative Juandalynn Givan is reflecting on the end of her legislative tenure. Despite falling short in her bid for a fifth term in House District 60, Givan made it clear to her supporters that her political voice is not going anywhere.
A Defiant Message
Givan took to social media late Wednesday to address her supporters for the first time since Tuesday's primary loss. “While this election did not end the way we hoped, let me be absolutely clear, a loss does not define me, nor does it silence me,” she shared on Facebook. “I have never been one to fold under pressure, bow to intimidation, or be pushed aside by anyone.”
The Results
The four-term incumbent was defeated by Alicia Escott Lumpkin, a political newcomer and former staffer for Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. The final tallies saw Lumpkin secure 3,882 votes (52.79%), while Givan finished with 2,438 votes (33.15%). Candidate Nina Taylor rounded out the field with 1,034 votes (14%).
Mayoral Rivalry
Lumpkin's successful run was bolstered by significant backing from Mayor Woodfin and his inner circle. This rivalry dates back to last summer's mayoral race, where Givan’s challenge to Woodfin was defined by intense rhetoric between the two camps. Ahead of the primary, Woodfin was spotted supporting Lumpkin at the polls, while a PAC led by his close associate Daniel Deriso funded aggressive radio advertisements targeting the longtime lawmaker.
Looking Ahead
As she steps away from the State House, Givan expressed pride in her 16-year record, emphasizing that she is never backing down from her convictions. Having built a strong presence through her podcast and social media commentary, Givan remains a fixture in the local discourse.
“They may have counted votes, but they will never count me out,” Givan stated. “Still standing. Still fighting. Still believing.”
Givan was one of eight state lawmakers to lose their seats during Tuesday’s primary, four of whom represented districts in Jefferson County. Closing her message, she invoked Maya Angelou, declaring: “And STILL… I RISE.”
