Alabama Democrats elect new party chair: ‘Build our party from the ground up’

Alabama state Sen. Bobby Singleton has been tapped as the new chair of the state Democratic Party. In a definitive move on Saturday, Singleton secured the position with a commanding 165-62 victory over the current chairman, Randy Kelley, who had been backed by longtime party operative Joe Reed.

A Mission to Rebuild

Addressing the room with visible emotion, the Greensboro native and Senate minority leader set a clear trajectory for his tenure. "Not only do we need to raise money, but we need to get out here and build our party from the ground up!" Singleton told cheering delegates. He emphasized a commitment to grassroots outreach, pledging to engage directly with the party’s various caucuses—including women, Black, Hispanic, LGBTQ, and youth groups—while taking his message to voters across the state.

Singleton didn't shy away from addressing the internal frustrations that have plagued the organization. "I was getting frustrated as a member of the legislature," he admitted post-election. "There was never a Democratic Party that supported us."

Seeking a Unified Path

The party has navigated significant internal friction in recent years as members debate the best strategy for balancing local races, statewide contests, and core values. Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, who is currently running for governor, observed the proceedings on Saturday. As he noted to 205focus.com last week, there is a growing sense of optimism regarding the potential for a functional party that can successfully support candidates at every level.

Jones has been active in recruiting for his "Change Ticket" this year, hoping to inject new momentum into the party's statewide efforts.

The Road Ahead

Singleton’s immediate priority is an aggressive fundraising campaign. He intends to hit the road to demonstrate that Alabama is a state deserving of investment, with plans to court not only traditional donors but also Republicans and independents seeking an alternative. This financial push comes at a critical time; while the party raised over $5 million during the 2024 cycle—largely buoyed by national committees to support U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures—current numbers have seen a significant dip. Federal records show the 2026 cycle has brought in $353,399 in individual contributions alongside $500,000 in committee transfers.

Beyond finances, the party is working to rectify organizational hurdles. Following an April decision by the national credentialing committee regarding improper handling of delegate elections, the party moved to conduct new delegate elections on Saturday. Joshua Coleman and Donna Foster were selected via paper ballot, even as Joe Reed Sr. stood to register his formal objection to the process.

For some, the change at the top offers a fresh start. Mobile attorney and newly elected youth caucus board member Maxine Walters, 29, shared her enthusiasm, noting, "I am excited to get a chance to be a part of the party leadership at my age."