The Alabama AFL-CIO on Thursday endorsed Sheila McNeil, the Democratic nominee for Place 2 on the Alabama Public Service Commission.
“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Alabama AFL-CIO and the working people it represents across our state,” McNeil said. “Alabama’s workers build our communities, keep our industries running and power our economy. They deserve a Public Service Commission that understands how its decisions affect their jobs, their families and the value of every paycheck.”
McNeil said she has made utility affordability, reliable infrastructure and responsible economic development central to her campaign.
“Every raise workers negotiate loses some of its value when utility bills keep climbing,” McNeil said. “A paycheck is not only about what you earn. It is also about what you get to keep.”
McNeil said Alabama should be able to attract new industry and create good-paying jobs without forcing working families and existing businesses to subsidize utility costs created by large new customers.
“We should not have to choose between economic development and protecting ratepayers,” McNeil said. “Large new customers should pay the costs required to serve them. Public incentives should produce measurable public benefits, including good-paying jobs, local hiring, workforce training and apprenticeships.”
She also emphasized the role of skilled workers who generate, transmit and deliver electricity throughout Alabama.
“When people turn on a light, they may not think about the utility workers, electricians, lineworkers, construction workers, engineers and maintenance personnel who make that possible,” McNeil said. “A responsible energy policy must support the skilled workforce needed to build, operate and maintain reliable infrastructure safely.”
McNeil said the endorsement strengthens her commitment to making the Public Service Commission more transparent, accountable and responsive to the people affected by its decisions.
“Alabama workers deserve fair rates, reliable service, good jobs and a meaningful voice,” McNeil said. “We can have all four.”
McNeil is the Democratic nominee for Place 2 on the Alabama Public Service Commission. The general election will be held November 3, 2026.
