Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry officially qualified Monday with the Alabama Republican Party in Hoover to seek election to the Alabama Public Service Commission, Place 1. His campaign is centered on protecting Alabama ratepayers, strengthening transparency, and supporting the jobs that keep Alabama running, his campaign announcement said.
“Alabama families and small businesses deserve a Public Service Commissioner that works for them,” Gentry said. “I’m running to protect ratepayers, bring real accountability and transparency to the process, and make sure decisions are made in the best interest of the people who pay the bills.”
Gentry emphasized the important role the Public Service Commission plays in overseeing utilities, fuel, rail and transportation services that affect communities across the state.
“Our utility, transportation, and energy industries support thousands of Alabama jobs,” Gentry said. “We can protect those jobs while also protecting consumers, and I will be a strong, consistent voice for both on the Commission.”
Gentry said his experience in law enforcement has prepared him to bring a results-driven, common-sense approach to the PSC.
“As Sheriff, I’ve spent my career protecting people and demanding accountability,” Gentry said. “That same commitment to transparency, fairness, and public trust will guide my work on the Public Service Commission.”
Gentry enters the race with early support from Alabama FarmPAC, the political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, and the Petroleum and Convenience Marketers Association of Alabama.
A lifelong Alabamian and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Gentry has more than two decades of experience in public service and law enforcement. He was first elected sheriff of Cullman County in 2014 and “has built a reputation for hands-on leadership, community engagement, and a strong commitment to transparency and accountability,” Gentry’s release stated.
Gentry is married to his wife Susie, and together they have two sons, William and Walker. The family also shares a love for animals, including three dogs and a herd of Longhorn cattle. Matt and Susie are active in their community.
