The Alabama Republican Party announced Wednesday that longtime Communications Director Jeannie Negrón Burniston has been promoted to serve as the Party’s new director of legislative affairs. Burniston will retain her current communications duties while expanding her role to help lead ALGOP’s policy and outreach efforts ahead of the 2026 legislative session.
In her new capacity, Burniston will work alongside ALGOP Chairman John Wahl to shape the Party’s legislative agenda, coordinate with Republican lawmakers, and engage with conservative groups across the state. According to the Party’s announcement, she will help “promote the issues that matter most to Alabama families” and support the GOP’s strategic operations in Montgomery.
“Jeannie has worked closely with me over the past several legislative sessions, helping research, communicate, and support key conservative initiatives,” said Chairman Wahl. “She has already begun tracking pre-filed bills for the 2026 session and identifying the issues we should take on next year. Her insight, attention to detail, and commitment to Republican values have made a tremendous impact.”
Wahl also praised Burniston’s professionalism and credibility among lawmakers.
“Jeannie has earned the trust and respect of many of our House and Senate members and has developed a strong reputation for professionalism and policy knowledge,” he said. “I’m proud to have her stepping into this expanded role, and I know she’ll continue to be a valuable asset to our Party and our state.”
Burniston has served as the Alabama Republican Party’s communications director since 2019, during which time she has led the Party’s media and messaging strategy and received national recognition for her work. Before joining ALGOP, she held senior roles in Republican organizations across the state and advised more than 20 political campaigns.
She began her career in broadcast journalism and was recognized with an Edward R. Murrow Award before moving from New York City to Alabama in 2006.
