By Bill Britt
Alabama Political Reporter
Later today the House Republican Caucus will hold a vote of confidence on Majority Leader Mickey Hamon (R-Decatur).
The vote is believed to be related to an investigation into a business interest of Hammon’s and Rep. Jack Williams (R-Birmingham) according to those with knowledge of the inquiry. Special Agents from the Office of Postmaster General have reportedly interviewed several House members on a bill that was put forward with the potential to affect a business interest shared by the two lawmakers positively.
Details of the probe are sketchy, but the interviews by the Postmaster’s agents resulted in a call for a vote of confidence. If the vote fails, an election for a new majority leader will be triggered (note that an investigation does not necessarily mean any laws have been broken).
Ahead of today’s vote, several Republican lawmakers have placed calls to other caucus member seeking votes to become majority leader. Republican Representatives Phil Williams, Nathaniel Leadbetter and April Weaver are among those wanting to replace Hammon.
Jack Williams in a surprise announcement earlier this month said he would not seek reelection in 2018, this coming on the heels of the convening of a Special Grand Jury in Jefferson County and the resignation of Rep. Oliver Robinson’s sudden departure from the House has cast a broad shadow over the State House.
Hammon, a loyal lieutenant of former Speaker and convicted felon Mike Hubbard, has remained in his position as Majority leader despite his closeness to Hubbard.
Many of the new guard House Republicans feel those awarded jobs by Hubbard should be purged announcing a new day to their constituents.
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