Off The Record: Latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
‘Don’t bet the farm’ … unless it’s profoundly profitable
A sizable staple of the Huntsville region is said to be on the market – or possibly already sold. The privately owned land brings together business, agriculture and residential communities that sprouted up at a seemingly faster pace than any other area in Huntsville. While it’s unclear who was in the market for such premium real estate, a 10-figure price tag wouldn’t be a deterrent for them. The area has driven Huntsville regional growth in a clear cardinality while maintaining its legacy as a family-owned foothill for nearly 100 years. That is, maybe until now.
Ruby red battleground
Could Alabama be a mainstay destination for the 2024 Republican presidential primary? As former President Donald Trump prepares to make his seventh stop in the Yellowhammer State for the ALGOP summer dinner, two other candidates have made sure to make a visit, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence. While politicos have good reason to be confident that Alabama is truly Trump country – as the primary draws on – will the state attract ambitious antics from candidates intent on winning the country’s most conservative votes?
Medical cannabis on fire
Ahead of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission’s official license awards announcement last month, prospective vendors such as cultivators and dispensaries were unsure if the process would move forward smoothly. Those concerns quickly and quantitatively proved true as inconsistencies were discovered in the selection process, leaving even regulators scrambling for a way forward. As upset vendors file litigation and the process is called into question, expect a slow burn from here on out.
Dirt moving in North Huntsville
Too soon?
If you’re wondering if three years out is too soon to endorse a gubernatorial candidate – it’s definitely not. Especially in Alabama politics. With the gentleman from Rainsville, Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter offering a total endorsement of Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth in Henagar over the weekend, 2026 is already shoring up. The 256 legislative contingency is tight-knit, so expect plenty more pro-Ainsworth stumping in this neck of the woods.
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