Alabama Senate elects Garland Gudger as president pro tempore

The Alabama Senate unanimously elected Senator Garland Gudger as president pro tempore during a floor session that adjourned to reconvene at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5. The nomination was made from the floor and approved by roll call, with a recorded tally of 33 ayes and 0 nays.

The nomination was made by Senator Livingston and seconded by Senator Bobby Singleton. Secretary Reed conducted the roll call and announced the unanimous result. Chief Justice Stewart administered the oath and Gudger addressed the chamber after being sworn in.

Gudger, introduced in the chamber as the senator from Cullman, delivered remarks referencing his recent recovery from serious injuries and laid out priorities for the session. He said the Senate must “ensure that every child in every zip code in every income level has access to quality education that prepares them for a lifetime of good paying jobs,” and listed public safety, immigration enforcement and careful budgeting as top concerns. “My door is open. My hand is offered. My words are sincere,” Gudger said during his remarks.

Senator Bobby Singleton, who seconded the nomination, and other senators offered remarks of support during the transition. The chamber then proceeded with introductions of bills and other routine business.

The election replaces the previous president pro tempore following his departure to a state workforce position; the Senate adopted a resolution commending that former president pro tempore earlier in the session.