North Alabama Democrats are heading into a runoff with the kind of optimism usually reserved for those of us buying lottery tickets over the Tennessee state line. Andrew Sneed and Candice Dollar Duvieilh advanced after neither topped 50% in the May 19 primary, and Democrats were especially energized by carrying the majority of ballots cast in Madison County. That’s the good news. The less-good news is that the eventual nominee still has to face U.S. Rep. Dale Strong in November. Strong has never, ever lost an election. As one local politico proffered, “This is the political equivalent of winning the school spelling bee and then finding out the finals are against a supercomputer.”

First they questioned John Wahl’s residency. Now they’re questioning his raccoon’s. One of Wes Allen’s closing campaign spots stars an animated “Charlie” claiming to live — and sleep — at Casa Wahl. The real Charlie reportedly belongs to Wahl’s fiancée, has his own Instagram (@RaccoonCharlie), and has indeed posted from bed. Wahl calls the ad “childish.” But, two residency fights in one campaign — sheesh. At least this one has a verified social presence.

“Mobile is NOT not San Francisco or Los Angeles”

Mobile’s tourism marketing arm is spending taxpayer money to promote Pride Month, and at least one board member isn’t having it.

Visit Mobile pulls nearly $5 million in lodging tax revenue and is currently plastering the city with “Alive With Pride” banners and pushing events on its website. Pastor Travis Johnson, who sits on the board, says he’s completely outnumbered and has been called a “hate pastor” by a fellow member. His take: live however you want, just don’t hand the bill to taxpayers. “Mobile is not San Francisco or Los Angeles.” The mayor’s office hasn’t responded. Surprise.

Barry Moore and Jared Hudson are fighting over who really served

An ad from Alabama Conservatives accused Barry Moore of implying he saw combat. Moore’s response: “I was never in combat, and I never claimed to be.” Then his campaign sent cease-and-desist letters to news outlets asking questions. Nothing says confidence like a legal threat.

Former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson challenged Moore to release his DD-214 and posted his own on social media. Moore says he doesn’t have one. Hudson says that’s the point.