2026 Alabama Republican Party chairmanship election
The 2026 Alabama Republican Party chairmanship election will be held on March 7, 2026, to elect the chairman of the Alabama Republican Party. Vice chairman Joan Reynolds was appointed to the position in January 2026, following the resignation of John Wahl to run for lieutenant governor. She is running for a full term in office.
Background
John Wahl stepped down as party chair following his decision to run for lieutenant governor on January 23, 2026. Vice chairman Joan Reynolds was appointed to the position later that day. She also led the Shelby County Republican Party at the time she was appointed.
Declared
- Stan Cooke, pastor
- Joan Reynolds, incumbent chairman
- Scott Stadthagen, majority leader of the Alabama House of Representatives (2023–present) from the 9th district (2019–present)
Campaign
Reynolds announced her campaign for a full term in office in February following her appointment. In her statement, she pointed out her work in Shelby and Butler County. On February 12, 1819 News reported that rumors were circulating that Stadthagen may be ousted from his position as majority leader. He announced that he would take a leave of absence from his position as he ran for party chair.