Recent polling from Alabama reveals a shift in the Republican landscape, with a new contender, former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson, surging ahead in the race for the 2026 GOP primary. A survey conducted by Quantus Insights across 1,050 registered Republican voters shows Hudson leading with 27 percent support. This places him slightly ahead of his nearest rival, Attorney General Steve Marshall, who is tracking at 24 percent.
The poll’s findings highlight a significant gap between Hudson and the other candidates. Congressman Barry Moore lags far behind Hudson and Marshall, sitting at only 9 percent. The rest of the candidates in the field are hovering in the low single digits. However, the landscape remains fluid, with 36 percent of respondents still undecided. This uncertainty signals that the primary race in Alabama is far from settled.
Hudson’s rise as a leading candidate marks a departure from traditional expectations in Alabama’s Republican politics. He stands out as an outsider with a distinct background compared to the established party figures. Hudson’s appeal lies in his military service, which resonates with voters seeking authenticity and a break from conventional political maneuvering. In contrast, Marshall, while well-respected for his law and order stance, is seen as part of the party establishment, potentially limiting his ability to capture the hearts of voters frustrated with traditional politics.
Many Republican voters, particularly those aligned with the MAGA movement, cherish a service-oriented message. Quantus’s research indicates that approximately one-third of participants believe a military or law enforcement background serves as the best preparation for a Senate candidate, surpassing the influence of typical political experience. For Hudson, this insight plays directly into his strengths, bolstering his narrative as a dedicated servant of the country.
Beyond the Senate race, Quantus’s findings also shed light on Alabama’s governor race, where current Senator Tommy Tuberville commands formidable support with 63 percent. His challenger, Ken McFeeters, stands well behind at 4 percent, leaving a significant 22 percent of voters undecided. The lieutenant governor race is similarly unsettled, with Wes Allen in the lead at 26 percent, closely followed by A.J. McCarron at 14 percent and John Merrill at 10 percent. A notable 36 percent of voters remain undecided, reflecting the fluid nature of these contests as well.
Hudson’s challenge represents a potential realignment within Alabama’s Republican Party. His outsider status, strong military credentials, and anti-establishment appeal set him apart from the usual candidates. As the race continues to unfold, the coming months will determine whether these dynamics solidify into a broader change in Alabama politics.
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