For the past eight and half years, Tommy Battle has served the people of Huntsville, Ala. as the city’s mayor.
Now the former city councilor-turned mayor looks to extend his service beyond the Rocket City as he announced his Republic bid for Alabama governor.
The Birmingham-native says his run will emphasize bringing communities across Alabama’s 67 counties together to create new opportunities in economic development, infrastructure, roads, education, and job creation.
“For too long, the people of Alabama have seen our values come under attack. Alabama has endured corruption instead of opportunity. Scandal instead of education. Embarrassment instead of pride,” Battle said in a news release announcing his candidacy.
“We’re not just in a battle for Alabama’s values, we’re in a battle for Alabama’s future. I’m running for governor because I’m ready to lead that fight.”
Battle is among the first candidates to throw his name in the ring. If elected, the “Big 5” mayor would become the first mayor elected governor in the state’s history.
“Our state’s challenges are real and they can’t wait,” Battle added. “Politicians talk; leaders get things done. It’s time we had a state government that talks less, listens to our people, and gets things done for them.”
Watch Battle’s first gubernatorial campaign video:
![[Photo Credit: Office of Gov. Kay Ivey]](https://altoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Kay-Ivey4.jpg)
