Kay Ivey Sets Dates for Special Election to Succeed West Alabama Lawmaker

Governor Ivey has organized a series of special elections to replace a west Alabama lawmaker she recently appointed to lead the state's Public Service Commission.

Tuscaloosa's Cynthia Almond was elected to represent District 63 in the Alabama House of Representatives in 2021 after a long stint on the city council here. House District 63 includes portions of Tuscaloosa County, and before Almond, was represented by Bill Poole.

As the Thread reported earlier this month, Almond had to leave her office to step into her new role at the PSC, which oversees utility providers such as Alabama Power and Spire. Her job there officially began Monday.

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On Monday, Ivey signed a proclamation setting the dates for up to three special elections to find Almond's replacement in the seat.

“Representative Cynthia Almond has served the people of House District 63 with integrity and purpose, and while her presence in the Legislature will be missed, I know her leadership will continue to shine as she steps into this vital statewide role,” said Governor Ivey. “Although Representative Almond leaves big shoes to fill, I am confident that House District 63 will continue to showcase strong leadership and representation in Alabama. I encourage everyone in the district to make their vote count.”

The two major parties will have their primary elections on Tuesday, September 30th, to determine who will appear on the ballot for the Republicans and Democrats. If those elections do not produce a plurality winner, a primary runoff will be held on Tuesday, October 28th.

Finally, the special general election will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

Those who wish to seek the seat will need to act fast - Ivey's office said in a press release that the deadline for qualifying with the major political parties will be this coming Monday, June 23, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

Anyone seeking to run as an Independent has a longer window and must qualify before 5 p.m. on September 30th, the day of the primary election for the major parties.

As the Thread reported last week, Tuscaloosa City Councilman Norman Crow has said he will seek the office - no other candidates have publicly announced a shot at the seat so far.

For more coverage of the race for House 63 as it develops, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.