Montgomery’s political class loves a good rumor the way Alabama loves football — passionate, relentless, and often detached from reality. The latest piece of gossip making the rounds? House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter is supposedly packing his bags for Washington, D.C., eyeing a cushy federal appointment.
But like most political tall tales, this one falls apart under the weight of a direct question. APR reached out to Ledbetter to ask if he was plotting a move to the nation’s capital, and the Speaker’s response was as firm as his grip on the gavel.
“I’ve got the job I want, and I’m going to do the job I’ve been elected to,” Ledbetter said, making it clear he’s not leaving his post to join the Beltway crowd.
And let’s be honest — the rumor fits a familiar pattern in Montgomery, where some folks can’t help but stir the pot, even if there’s no soup in it. The mere hint of a leadership shakeup is enough to send tongues wagging, especially when it creates confusion and distraction.
“I’m honored to serve the people of House District 24 and equally honored to have also been elected unanimously by members of the Alabama House to serve as Speaker,” Ledbetter added. “I look forward to continuing to serve in this role and working with my colleagues to make an already great state even better.”
Rumors like these aren’t about reality — they’re about keeping things messy. After all, nothing sparks more interest in the State House than a juicy narrative, true or not. But Ledbetter made one thing clear: He’s not headed to D.C., no matter how tempting the gossip.
The people stirring this particular pot will have to find a new story.
