By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
On Friday, February 19, US Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) announced that he is endorsing incumbent US Representative Bradley Byrne (R-Montrose) for another term in the United States House of Representatives representing Alabama’s First Congressional District.
Senator Sessions said, “I Support Bradley,” during an interview with Sean Sullivan on FM Talk 106.5.
Sen. Sessions said, “I am a big fan of Bradley’s. We are good friends. We vote similarly on key issues. I think he is a good Congressman…I support Bradley.”
Senator Sessions said during the interview, “I think Bradley works hard every day. He knows our district exceedingly well. He’s very smart. He’s got good judgement.”
Congressman Byrne thanked Sen. Sessions for the endorsement. Rep. Byrne said in a statement, “Senator Sessions is a leading conservative not only in Alabama but around the country, and I am honored to have his support.” “From working to protect the jobs at the Austal shipyard to fighting to secure our borders, I’ve worked with Senator Sessions on a number of important priorities. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Senator Sessions as we stand up for our shared conservative values.”
Rep. Byrne is being challenged in the Republican Primary by longtime Roy Moore (R) aide and perennial candidate, Dean Young. Dean Young challenged incumbent Rep. Jo Bonner (R-Mobile) in 2010. In 2011, after Bonner’s retirement, Young and Byrne both were in the special election runoff to replace Bonner. The spirited race drew national attention, though Byrne ultimately won. Young ran for Secretary of State in 2002, but lost to State Representative Dave Thomas (R-Springville) in the Republican Primary runoff. Former AEA President Nancy Worley (D) beat Thomas in the general election.
Rep. Bradley has also received endorsements from the National Rifle Association (NRA), National Right to Life, the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Alabama Retail Association, and Baldwin County Sheriff Hoss Mack.
Bradley Byrne is an attorney. Prior to being elected to Congress Bradley Byrne served on the state school board, in the state Senate, and as Chancellor of the State’s two year college system. In the 2010 Republican primary, Byrne was a GOP gubernatorial candidate. Byrne was defeated in the Republican Primary runoff by state Representative Robert Bentley (R-Tuscaloosa). Bentley went on to win the general election.
Sen. Jeff Sessions is widely regarded nationally as one of the most conservative members of the United States Senate. He was re-elected in 2014 without any opposition.
The Alabama Republican Primary is on March 1.
