![Alabama Attorney General Race: Jeff McLaughlin vs. Katherine [Last Name]](https://www.alabamalawfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Jeff-McLaughlin.jpg "Alabama Attorney General Race: Jeff McLaughlin vs. Katherine [Last Name]")
The Alabama attorney general’s race features Democratic nominee Jeff McLaughlin, a former state representative, and Republican nominee Katherine, competing to succeed outgoing Attorney General Steve Marshall, according to official candidate filings. Voters will decide the contest during the November 2026 general election cycle, shaping the future leadership of the state’s top legal office.
The Candidates in the 2026 General Election
Democratic nominee Jeff McLaughlin brings legislative experience to the ballot, having previously served as a member of the Alabama House of Representatives representing District 38. McLaughlin secured the Democratic nomination to challenge the Republican hold on the office. On the Republican side, Katherine won the GOP nomination following a competitive primary season, stepping forward to run for the seat currently held by outgoing Attorney General Steve Marshall.
Marshall, who was first sworn in on February 10, 2017, reached his term-limit horizon, creating an open-seat race for the November ballot, according to records from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. Marshall built his career on a tough-on-crime platform, notably drafting and passing the Brody Act during his 16-year tenure as District Attorney for Marshall County, a statute criminalizing the killing or injuring of an unborn child.
Key Legal and Political Stakes for the Office
The Alabama Attorney General serves as the chief law enforcement officer of the state, managing high-profile litigation, consumer protection divisions, and constitutional defense in federal and state courts. Throughout his tenure, Marshall defended landmark state statutes before the Alabama Supreme Court, including securing convictions under the Brody Act, establishing a precedent that the incoming attorney general will inherit alongside ongoing multi-state lawsuits and state-level criminal prosecutions.
Both McLaughlin and Katherine are campaigning on distinct visions for public safety, consumer advocacy, and the scope of state legal intervention. While McLaughlin emphasizes a balanced approach to criminal justice reform and economic protection for working families, Katherine focuses on continuing conservative legal challenges against federal overreach and maintaining strict enforcement of state laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Alabama Attorney General election?
The general election takes place in November 2026, where voters will choose between Democratic nominee Jeff McLaughlin and Republican nominee Katherine.
Who is the current Attorney General of Alabama?
Steve Marshall holds the office, having served since February 2017, according to the Alabama Attorney General’s Office.
What qualifications do the nominees hold?
Jeff McLaughlin is a former state representative from District 38, while Katherine secured the Republican nomination following a primary campaign to succeed Marshall.
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