BIRMINGHAM — Qualifying has opened for the Alabama Republican Party Special Election Primary in State Senate District 9, the Alabama Republican Party announced Sunday.

The office became open after former Senate Majority Leader Clay Scofield stepped down to take the position of executive vice president of the Business Council of Alabama.

District 9 includes areas of Blount, Marshall, and Madison counties.

To qualify for the Republican ballot, visit www.algop.org or stop by ALGOP headquarters, 3505 Lorna Road in Birmingham during the qualifying period which ends 5 p.m. Tuesday.

The Special Election Primary for the seat will be Jan. 9. If a run-off election is needed, it will be Feb. 6.

The Special General Election is April 23.