Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in Alabama
Hegseth in the Rocket City
It was announced this week Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will be taking a trip to Redstone Arsenal today for the unveiling of the U.S. Space Command sign. In addition to the unveiling set for later this afternoon, the head of the Department of Defense will reportedly be checking out additional sights on the Arsenal and meet with defense industry leaders. We hear Hegseth will be dropping in on the Missile Defense Agency, among others. Alabama leaders are ready to show off the Arsenal’s world-class capabilities and while Hegseth won’t be able to take in all 38,000 acres, they expect Redstone to make its usual impression.
Allen scores against McCarron
Wes Allen is not holding back in his newly released TV ad that takes square aim at opponent AJ McCarron in the race for lieutenant governor in 2026. “I enjoyed my days as an Alabama football player (he was a wide receiver under Mike DuBose and Gene Stallings) but it’s my record off the field that matters,” he says. Allen is leaning into his experience as Secretary of State and the Alabama House to paint a stark contrast to McCarron, who, according to official voter data from the Secretary of State’s officer, first registered to vote Oct. 20, 2025 and has not voted in any primary or general elections in Alabama.
Counties vs. Cities
The city of Madison is the latest to join a growing list of Alabama cities suing the state over what they argue is an unfair formula for distributing online sales tax revenue, a fight that now pits municipalities against county leaders. Meanwhile, state leaders have thus far supported the current system. But with tens of millions at stake and mayors such as Tuscaloosa’s Walt Maddox calling the SSUT model a “significant financial threat”, there’s bound to be a battle. While everyone insists work will carry on as one big happy family, one has to wonder whether those regularly scheduled regional breakfasts and briefings where everyone shakes hands and smiles for photos might turn a little frosty.
Big news from Community Foundation
The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville is gearing up for a major announcement next week. The nonprofit, known for connecting donors and businesses with local needs by managing charitable funds, simplifying giving, and supporting nonprofits in areas such as basic needs, health, arts, and education, says Tuesday’s announcement will mark a “major milestone” in its work to strengthen the North Alabama community.
