The race for Alabama’s First Congressional District has a new candidate ahead of the 2026 election, with three Republicans announcing campaigns for the open seat.
The district, which encompasses Baldwin and Mobile counties, as well as parts of the Wiregrass, has been one of the state’s most reliably Republican areas. Incumbent U.S. Representative Barry Moore, R-Enterprise, is seeking a U.S. Senate seat; the race to replace him is expected to draw considerable attention in the coming months.
This week, Austin Sidwell, a former Air Force major and small-business executive from Fairhope, entered the race. Sidwell served twelve years in the Air Force, including time as an instructor pilot at Fort Rucker. He now works as vice president of Sidwell Protection Services, a family-owned business founded over three decades ago, and is completing his final semester at the Jones School of Law.
In a statement announcing his campaign, Sidwell said he plans to focus on fiscal responsibility, limited government and issues affecting small businesses and veterans. He said his military and business background have given him a practical understanding of how federal policies affect local communities.
“After serving my country in uniform and leading a family business through real-world challenges, I know firsthand how disconnected Washington has become from everyday families and small-business owners. I’m running to be a voice from the next generation of leaders grounded in Christian faith to protect constitutional rights, provide opportunity and ensure freedom for future generations,” Sidwell said.
Sidwell lives in Fairhope with his wife and three children.
Former U.S. Representative Jerry Carl, who represented the district from 2021 to 2025, filed earlier this year to run again. Carl previously served two terms in Congress before redistricting placed him in Alabama’s Second Congressional District. He has cited his experience working on issues tied to the Gulf Coast, including port operations, defense, and economic development.
State Representative Rhett Marques, R-Enterprise, also announced his campaign in August. Marques pointed to his experience in the Alabama House and his connections to both the Wiregrass and coastal regions as strengths in a district that spans much of south Alabama. He has received backing from Senator Katie Britt, R-Alabama.
The First District has not elected a Democrat in more than 50 years and is considered a safe Republican seat. As a result, the GOP primary will likely determine its next representative.
The Republican primary is scheduled for May 19, 2026.
