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On Friday, Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Birmingham, officially announced that she will be running for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District.
“Today, I proudly announce my candidacy for the United States Congress,” Coleman said in a press release. “Throughout my years of service, I’ve witnessed the power of unity, the strength in diversity, and the resilience of the human spirit. As we embark on this journey together, let’s amplify our shared values, break barriers, and build a future where every Alabamian’s voice is not just heard but celebrated. Together, let’s write a new chapter of progress, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the ideals that make our nation great.”
Coleman now joins a race of 20 candidates vying to represent the newly redrawn District 2. High-profile Democratic candidates seeking the nomination are Alabama House Minority Leader Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville, Rep. Napoleon Bracy, D-Prichard, Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, and Rep. Jeremy Gray, D-Opelika. Sen. Kirk Hatcher, D-Montgomery, also appeared to be in the race but decided not to qualify despite the backing of Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed.
The district was redrawn in October after Alabama was found to be in violation of the Voting Rights Act for diluting the voting power of Black citizens under the 2021 Congressional Map. The district encompasses the southern region of the Black Belt and a portion of Mobile County.
Coleman, an attorney and associate professor of Political Science at Miles College, is confident in her legislative record and over 20 years of experience in the legislature. Elected to the Alabama Senate in 2022, after 20 years in the House, Coleman has served on several Senate committees, including the Ways and Means committee, which is responsible for creating the budget for Alabama State Departments.
Coleman has championed a number of issues while working as a legislator, including fighting for the rights of survivors of child sex abuse, passing a Constitutional Amendment to remove racist language from the 1901 Constitution, and advancing human trafficking legislation.
The senator believes her wide range of experience and record in the political sphere will allow her to make change in District 2.
“As a mother, legislator, educator, advocate, and attorney, Senator Merika Coleman embodies a commitment to excellence and a passion for making a positive impact,” the press release said. “Her candidacy for Congress represents an opportunity to bring her transformative leadership to the halls of Congress.”
