Former Representative Jerry Carl is projected to win the Republican primary in Alabama's 1st Congressional District, according to Decision Desk HQ, putting him on a clear path back to the House. Carl, who represented the district from 2021 to 2025, defeated three other GOP contenders to claim the nomination for the seat being vacated by Rep. Barry Moore, who is now running for the Senate.
The primary outcome all but guarantees Carl's return to Washington, as the Cook Political Report rates the general election as solidly Republican. The district, which covers the state's southernmost counties, has not elected a Democrat in decades, making the November contest a formality.
Carl's victory sets up a political rematch of sorts, though Moore is no longer in the picture. In 2024, Moore narrowly defeated Carl in the GOP primary after Alabama's congressional map was redrawn, a decision that pushed the two incumbents into the same district. That race was marked by sharp exchanges, including Carl's controversial remark that “everyone has some type of racist in them” during a debate, which drew national attention.
This time, Carl faced a crowded field but emerged as the frontrunner, leveraging his previous tenure and name recognition. His campaign focused on border security, energy independence, and conservative fiscal policies, themes that resonate with the district's Republican base.
Moore, who is now the GOP nominee for Senate, is expected to cruise to victory in the general election, replacing Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who is leaving the seat to run for governor. Tuberville's departure has set off a chain of political moves across Alabama, with Moore's Senate bid being the most prominent.
Carl's win is part of a broader wave of primary results across several states, including key primaries in six states that are shaping the 2026 midterm landscape. In Connecticut, for example, Bronin defeated Larson in the 1st District primary, while in Alabama's 2nd District, Marques secured the GOP nod to challenge Figures.
Political analysts note that Carl's return could bring a familiar voice to the House, but his previous controversial comments may resurface in the general election, even if the district's partisan makeup makes his victory all but certain. His campaign has sought to downplay those remarks, emphasizing his legislative record on veterans' affairs and infrastructure.
With the primary behind him, Carl now shifts focus to the general election, where he will face a Democratic opponent in a race that is expected to be a formality. His victory speech highlighted his commitment to “fighting for the conservative values of South Alabama” and his readiness to “hit the ground running” if elected.
