Jared Hudson calls out Barry Moore for missing Alabama Senate debate

With the Republican primary runoff election fast approaching on June 16, Alabama U.S. Senate candidates Barry Moore and Jared Hudson have spent recent weeks appearing together at various local forums across the state. However, the stage looked a bit different at their latest scheduled debate in Montgomery, where Hudson stood alone.

Hudson criticizes absence

Following a stump speech, Hudson, a former Navy SEAL, did not hold back regarding Moore’s decision to skip the event. “We were supposed to have a debate tonight. And I hate that we can’t. I would have loved for the people of Alabama to see the difference between me and my opponent,” Hudson told the crowd. He further questioned the timing, noting that while Moore cited congressional duties, the reconciliation votes were not slated to occur until Wednesday.

Moore defends his record

Moore’s campaign clarified that his absence was necessary due to his responsibilities in Washington, D.C., as Congress prepares to vote on a $70 trillion immigration and border funding package. Addressing the criticism, Moore stated, “If I’m going to be attacked, I’ll take being attacked for doing the job Alabama elected me to do.”

Moore’s spokesman, Chet Martin, added that the focus on the missed debate reflected poorly on Hudson’s priorities. “Jared apparently believes campaigning is more important than governing,” Martin told 205focus.com. Moore himself emphasized that voters are seeking a representative who can effectively navigate Washington, arguing, “We don’t have time for on the job training.”

Although he was not physically present, Moore did contribute to the event via a video message, where he touted his legislative experience. As the primary runoff countdown continues, voters will also see other critical races on both Republican and Democratic ballots throughout Alabama.