Ivey Sets Special Election for West Alabama House Seat, Qualifying Ends July 25th
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has set dates for a special election to replace an area legislator who is stepping down to lead the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama.
As the Thread reported earlier this year, Kyle South is resigning from his seat in the Alabama House of Representatives to replace former Chamber President and CEO Jim Page, who left the organization after a decade to pursue other work in Huntsville.
That move, announced in April, became effective after the legislative session ended last month and the seat is now vacant.
South served House District 16, which includes portions of Fayette, Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties.
On Friday, Ivey said there will be a special election to decide who will serve the rest of South's term, which ends in 2026.
Candidates have until Tuesday, July 25th to qualify with major political parties, and independent candidates or those running in minority parties have around a month longer to qualify.
The special primary election will be held Tuesday, September 26th, with a runoff set for October 24th should one be necessary. The special general election will be held on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024
“Rep. South has served the people of House District 16 well for the past nine years and will continue to do so in his new role as president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. He certainly leaves big shoes to fill in the Legislature, but I am incredibly happy for him and confident he will continue serving West Alabama well,” said Governor Ivey. “I encourage everyone in this district to get out and vote during this special election to ensure you have another strong voice advocating for you in the Alabama Legislature.”
For more on the race as candidates qualify and the elections draw near, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.