Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones will officially kick off his 2026 gubernatorial campaign Friday evening at The Theodore in Birmingham, marking the most significant Democratic entry into a statewide race in more than a decade.
The rally, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. CST, will feature performances by six-time Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter Jason Isbell and DJ Slim Robb, underscoring the campaign’s effort to build excitement ahead of what insiders say will be one of the most consequential elections in recent Alabama history.
Jones, who shocked the nation on December 12, 2017, when he defeated Roy Moore to become the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Alabama in 25 years, enters the governor’s race with deep national recognition and what party officials describe as “full confidence” from Democratic leadership. A senior strategist told APR the launch represents “a moment when Democrats across Alabama and across the country are lined up behind one candidate,” framing Jones as the party’s best chance to reset the state’s political trajectory.
The campaign says Friday’s event is designed to evoke the broad coalition that powered Jones’ 2017 victory—young voters, suburban moderates, African American communities, and independents frustrated by political dysfunction. “Doug has always believed Alabama is at its strongest when people come together across lines that normally divide us,” a close ally said. “This campaign will reflect that belief in every county we visit.”
Doors open at 5 p.m. at The Theodore, located at 3211 2nd Avenue South in Birmingham. The kickoff will conclude at 7 p.m. Jones will be joined by his wife, Louise Jones, longtime supporters, and additional guests expected to be announced as the event nears.
With Republicans preparing for what could be a bruising primary season, Jones’ entry signals that Democrats believe the 2026 governor’s race presents a real opportunity. Whether that optimism takes hold will begin to come into focus Friday night, as Jones makes his opening case why he is ready to lead Alabama into a better tomorrow for all.
