A ‘race for the history books’; Bartlett announces; Decatur’s difficulties; and more in this week’s OTR

Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama

Tuberville vs Ainsworth, but seriously this time

All signs are pointing towards a possible clash of Alabama political heavyweights in next year’s governor’s race. Media reports out of Washington broke the news that Sen. Tommy Tuberville is seriously considering a run for governor. While this runs counter to reports from earlier this year that had Tuberville (R-Auburn) running for re-election, insiders say it is true and very serious. When asked what has changed, they point to the senator’s increasing dislike for the Washington lifestyle and the travel involved with being in the Senate. They also point to the birth of Tuberville’s first grandson as a reason to return to Alabama full-time. Regardless of the reason it sets up a potential campaign between Tuberville and Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, who made it clear on social media that he is in the governor’s race to stay. Insiders credit Ainsworth for building out a statewide organization and preparation for a campaign but point to Tuberville’s universal name recognition and close relationship to President Trump, who will likely endorse and campaign for him, as reasons why Tuberville would be very tough to beat.

Madison moves

After Madison City Council member Ranae Bartlett announced her campaign for mayor Thursday, attention is now turning to a former city council member. City Administrator Steve Smith was rumored to be considering a campaign if Bartlett did not run. However, an insider reports, “If Steve feels compelled to run, he will.”  Smith, the former city councilman for District 2, lost his reelection bid to Connie Spears in 2020. Meanwhile, we hear another candidate we told you about weeks ago is ready to officially announce her candidacy for Bartlett’s former District 5 council seat any day now.

Decatur’s difficulties continue

Turmoil continues in Decatur. After Police Chief Todd Pinion announced he was stepping down, calls have renewed for embattled Mayor Tad Bowling to hang up his hat, as well. Bowling’s unilateral decision to place Nadis Carlisle as interim police chief has exasperated members of the council and much of the city. Carlisle was the Alabama A&M University police chief from 2017-21 before being fired. The university did not provide a reason at the time. However, insiders report he was fired for putting students and staff in danger for refusing to respond to calls for assistance in certain areas of campus because of trivial disagreements.

Florence brew bros

Dutch Bros Coffee plans to open another North Alabama location. The coffee chain’s popular “broistas” will be slinging brew in Florence after their official opening Saturday. The coffee chain started in 1992 by two brothers in Grants Pass, Ore. This will be the seventh Dutch Bros location in the state.