The Gulf United Metro Business Organization, or GUMBO, announced this week that it has endorsed Jerry Carl for Alabama’s 1st Congressional District, citing “his proven leadership and longstanding commitment to the communities, businesses, and industries that make Coastal Alabama one of the state’s strongest economic engines.”
GUMBO, which represents stakeholders from across South Baldwin County, said it advocates for policies that promote responsible growth, strengthen infrastructure, support workforce development, promote sustainable tourism, preserve the region’s natural resources and enhance the quality of life for Alabama Gulf Coast residents.
“GUMBO’s strength lies in its ability to bring together leaders from every corner of Coastal Alabama’s economy,” the organization said. “Its stakeholders represent the businesses, industries, educational institutions and community organizations that make the Gulf Coast one of the fastest-growing and most economically vibrant regions in the Southeast.”
“Jerry Carl has a proven record of delivering results for Coastal Alabama,” GUMBO Treasurer Craig Savage said. “He understands that continued investment in transportation, ports, workforce development, and critical infrastructure is essential to sustaining our region’s extraordinary growth. That’s why GUMBO is proud to support Jerry—he’ll be ready on day one to continue advancing the priorities that matter most to Coastal Alabama.”
GUMBO said Coastal Alabama continues to experience residential, commercial and tourism growth, creating new opportunities while increasing the need for strategic investments in infrastructure, workforce development, health care and economic competitiveness.
The organization said Carl’s experience and relationships in Washington position him to immediately advocate for the federal resources and policies needed to support the region’s continued success.
“Jerry knows our communities because he’s represented them before, and he’s never stopped fighting for Coastal Alabama,” GUMBO Chairman Jim Bibby said. “His experience and relationships mean he can get to work immediately, advocating for the federal resources and infrastructure our region needs. We have every confidence he’ll continue putting Coastal Alabama first.”
Carl said GUMBO’s endorsement is especially meaningful because of the relationships he has built with the organization’s stakeholders throughout his years of public service.
“I’m honored to have GUMBO’s support,” Carl said. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many of its stakeholders for years, and I’m grateful for their friendship and confidence. Together, we’ve accomplished a great deal for Coastal Alabama, and I’m ready to keep building on that progress by fighting for the infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities our communities deserve.”
GUMBO Vice Chair Margaret Roley said the region’s continued success depends on investing not only in economic development, but also in quality-of-life priorities that attract families, employers and a talented workforce.
“Our region’s continued success depends on more than economic growth—it depends on affordability and ensuring families have access to high-quality healthcare and the services that make Coastal Alabama a wonderful place to call home,” Roley said. “Jerry understands that connection, and he’ll continue championing policies that strengthen both our communities and our economy.”
GUMBO said it remains committed to partnering with leaders who understand the opportunities and challenges facing Coastal Alabama as the Gulf Coast continues to grow.
The organization said the endorsement reaffirms its commitment to working with Carl to advance strategic infrastructure investments, strengthen the region’s economy, support workforce development and preserve the quality of life that has made Coastal Alabama “one of the nation’s most desirable places to live, work, and visit.”
