Alabama Public Service Commission faces shakeup with Tuesday’s Republican runoff

Alabama voters are preparing to potentially reshape the Public Service Commission (PSC) as a pivotal Republican primary runoff approaches this Tuesday.

The Race for Place 2

Former state auditor Jim Zeigler and incumbent Chris Beeker are squaring off for the Republican nomination for the statewide Place 2 seat. The two emerged from a crowded primary field back in May, and the winner will advance to face Madison County Democratic Party chair Sheila McNeil in the November general election.

Beeker, a Tuscaloosa resident originally from Eutaw, has occupied the seat since 2024, when he was appointed following the departure of his father, Chip Beeker, due to health concerns. Emphasizing his background in farming and his focus on energy independence, Beeker told 205focus.com, “I’m running for Public Service Commissioner to protect Alabama’s way of life. Alabama needs conservative leadership that will lower energy costs, protect our energy independence, and put working families first.”

However, Zeigler enters the runoff with momentum. In the primary, Zeigler secured nearly 45% of the vote compared to Beeker’s 25%. Zeigler, who previously served as a public service commissioner in the 1970s and as a senior care planner in Mobile, noted, “I am grateful to voters, supporters, and donors. With a low turnout expected in the June 16 runoff, it is important that I give Alabama voters a compelling reason to go vote.”

Financial Stakes and Commission Shakeups

Campaign finance records from the Alabama Secretary of State indicate significant investment in the race, with Beeker reporting over $339,000 raised between May and June, while Zeigler reported $130,500.

Should Beeker fall on Tuesday, he would be the second incumbent to lose his seat this cycle; in May, Commissioner Jeremy Oden was defeated by retired Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry. This turnover, combined with the earlier resignation of former President Twinkle Cavanaugh—who left to join the Trump administration and was replaced by Cynthia Lee Almond—means the commission is headed toward a total transformation.

Legislative Overhaul and Public Pressure

The political maneuvering occurs against a backdrop of public frustration regarding rising utility bills, specifically concerning Alabama Power. In response, the Alabama Legislature recently passed a measure to restructure the PSC, expanding it from three elected members to seven—one for each congressional district.

Governor Kay Ivey is set to appoint four new commissioners this July. Additionally, the role of Secretary of Energy will be created to set the commission's agenda. The original legislative push, led by Rep. Mack Butler, aimed to mandate formal rate case hearings to force transparency regarding utility company profits. However, after the Senate altered the bill to require a five-out-of-seven vote for such hearings, Butler ultimately voted against the final version of his own legislation.

The reforms remain under legal scrutiny, as Democratic nominee Sheila McNeil has filed a lawsuit arguing that changing the commission structure mid-campaign is inappropriate. The matter is currently pending in federal court.