By Bill Britt
Alabama Political Reporter
MONTGOMERY—In a letter to the members of the Alabama House of Representatives, Republican lawyer maker Rep. Phil Williams is seeking to replace Mike Hubbard as Speaker.
In his letter Williams wrote, “After taking several days to reflect on our most recent Special Session and the process through which we produced a budget for our State, I have decided to put my name forward to be the next Speaker of the House. I do not take such an undertaking lightly and I would like to share my vision as to why I am choosing to pursue this course of action. “
Williams goes further say the House “can no longer operate effectively with our current leadership.” He continues by saying, “The unfortunate fact is that the status quo is not working and if we are to come together as an effective body for the people who elected us we must change direction and put forth real reforms on how we conduct business.”
Finally he lays out his case with pointed reference to actions taken by current Speaker Hubbard. “During my time as Speaker, I will not accept any role as a paid consultant or employee for any individual, business or organization.”
In a Facebook post Republican Rep. Tim Wadsworth announced his support for Williams and a change in leadership, “The Alabama State House of Representatives will now have an opportunity for fresh leadership for the State House and the Citizens of the State of Alabama. The State of Alabama cannot move forward without new leadership. It’s now time for a change in House Leadership. The citizens of District 14 are important to me. I WANT YOU TO KNOW FIRST THAT I SUPPORT NEW LEADERSHIP AND I WILL SUPPORT PHIL WILLIAMS FOR SPEAKER. I just received an email announcing that Phil Williams is a candidate for Speaker. Attached is the email announcing the candidacy. LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD.”
Williams and Wadsworth join fellow Republican House members Reps Jim Carns and Allen Treadaway in calling for Hubbard to step down.
Agriculture and Industry Commissioner John McMillan was the first elected Republican and only Constitutional Officer, so far to call for Hubbard resign as Speaker.
