After 16 years, Juandalynn Givan: ‘I’ve been one hell of a legislator’
As her tenure in the state legislature, after a stunning re-election loss, perhaps the state's most polarizing lawmaker reflects on a time that didn't make sense to all.
Ethan Parker 
This is an opinion column.
I first encountered Rep. Juandalynn Givan nearly a decade ago at a Parker High School event on Birmingham’s west side. After I snapped a few photos for a column, she didn't hesitate to take my phone, review the images, and delete the ones where she wasn't satisfied with her appearance. It was a quintessential Givan moment—an introduction to the most unique and polarizing elected official in the state.
A Legislative Era Ends
After 16 years representing Birmingham’s District 60 in the Alabama House of Representatives, Givan’s tenure is coming to a close. In a recent primary, she lost her bid for a fourth term to political newcomer Alicia Escott Lumpkin. Lumpkin secured 52.2% of the vote, while Givan trailed at 33.55% and Birmingham Fire Captain Nina Taylor finished at 14.9%, according to unofficial results.
Givan was one of eight incumbent lawmakers to lose their seats. Reflecting on her time in Montgomery, she emphasized a legislative record that includes amending human trafficking laws, sponsoring legislation to curb street racing, and championing the “brunch bill,” which allowed for earlier Sunday alcohol sales in Birmingham (read more on that here).
“I am very proud of my time in the Alabama legislature,” Givan said. “My body of work speaks for itself — I’ve been a hell of a legislator. And I don’t care who you are, whether or not you like me, whether or not you like my style, no one will be able to take that from me.”
Political Battles and Looking Forward
The race was heavily influenced by Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Givan’s longtime political rival. A PAC tied to the mayor’s supporters funded radio ads targeting Givan. This defeat follows Givan’s unsuccessful mayoral run last year, where Woodfin won with nearly 75% of the vote. Givan also unsuccessfully sought a U.S. Congressional seat, where she finished 8th in a field of 11 candidates.
Despite a “losing season,” Givan insists her political drive remains intact. “Some may think they’ve destroyed me and killed me,” she remarked. “No, what they have done is energized me.” As for what comes next, she is taking time to reflect but remains defiant. “I’ve had a hell of a ride for 16 years, and I’m gonna still have a hell of a ride, whatever I venture to do next.”
Whether or not that next chapter makes sense to everyone else, it is certain to be fully Juandalynn.
