The American Federation of Government Employees, AFGE, the largest federal employee union in the U.S., recently announced its endorsement of four candidates running for office in Alabama ahead of this year’s midterm elections.
The newly endorsed candidates are Andrew Sneed, running for U.S. House in Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District; Ron Sparks, running for Agriculture and Industries Commissioner; and incumbent U.S. Reps. Shomari Figures, CD-2, and Terri Sewell, CD-7.
All four of the AFGE-endorsed candidates are Democrats. Of the four, Sneed is the only candidate running in a contested primary, with Jeremy Devito and Candice Duvieilh also running as Democrats in CD-5.
In AFGE’s statement endorsing Sneed, Tatishka Thomas, AFGE District 5 national vice president, touted Sneed’s dedication to advancing workers’ rights as a “pro-labor champion.”
“Andrew Sneed is an Alabama native, a dedicated union member, and a leader who understands that faith, family, and the dignity of work are the bedrock of our community,” said Thomas. “It is with great honor that AFGE District 5 endorses Mr. Andrew Sneed for the U.S. House of Representatives. As a pro-labor champion, Andrew will be a tireless voice for Alabama’s 5th District and the working families who keep our country moving.”
Meanwhile, Sparks is set to face the winner of a contested Republican primary in the general election for Ag Commissioner.
“Ron Sparks’ journey has always been defined by a deep-seated commitment to his community and his country,” said Thomas. “From his foundational years in the U.S. Coast Guard to his tenure as a beloved public official, his career is a testament to what it means to lead with integrity. He has never wavered in his support for the working men and women who keep Alabama moving forward.”
“Ron isn’t just a candidate – he is a proven leader who has already delivered for his constituents,” she added. “We are proud to offer our full endorsement to Mr. Ron Sparks as he seeks to return to the office of Agriculture Commissioner.”
In CD-2, Rep. Figures will face Republican challenger Hampton Harris in the general election as he seeks a second term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“Rep. Figures has stood not just with federal workers but with workers in general,” said Thomas. “His commitment to economic empowerment – focusing on investing in small businesses, childcare, and job creation – helps all workers. That’s why AFGE stood with Shomari Figures as a candidate and stands with him now as a congressman for his reelection.”
Rep. Sewell, Alabama’s other Democratic member of Congress, is currently running unopposed in CD-7 as she seeks her ninth term in the House. AFGE is continuing to back the congresswoman due to her record of supporting organized labor, including federal employees in District 5.
“Rep. Sewell is committed to her community by fighting for Social Security employees and doing what’s right by fighting for seniors, the disabled, and orphaned children. Congresswoman Sewell is the fighter all Alabamians need,” Thomas said.
AFGE represents more than 820,000 federal and D.C. government workers, including 110,000 federal employees in District 5, which includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Alabama’s primary elections will be held on May 19. The 2026 general election is November 3.
