Birmingham businessman Dom Gentile joins U.S. Senate race

Birmingham businessman Dominic “Dom” Gentile on Tuesday announced he’ll run for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Jeff Sessions when he became U.S. Attorney General in February.

The 51 Hoover, Ala. resident has never held public office and will kick off his campaign by traveling across the Yellowhammer State and talking to business owners, first responders, veterans, active military and citizens who want a fresh voice in Washington.

“Dom will bring a fresh and innovative perspective to Washington,” states his newly launched campaign website. “Our politicians are broken. It’s not the system that’s broken; it’s the crooked, crony politicians, and he offers the voters a fresh alternative.”

With a platform that includes supporting terms limits and only serving one full-term if elected; supporting the flat tax and dramatically reducing the size and power of the IRS; reducing health care costs and putting an end to what he deems “monopolistic behavior” of insurer Blue Cross Blue Shield; and removing government red tape — the University of Alabama alum is hoping to make the most of his political-outsider persona.

He’s also using his first-hand experience as a small business owner as another selling point.

“Over the last 13 years, Dom has grown his own business from nothing to a multi-million dollar enterprise. Dom knows how to create jobs and make a payroll. He helps people start businesses,” states his website. “Government is way too big and regulations are too burdensome for businesses. As a small business owner, Dom knows this first hand. Dom will work to reduce red tape.”

Gentile joins an already crowded GOP race. Among those who have already thrown their hats into the ring, are Sen. Luther Strange, who was appointed to fills Sessions empty seat by former Gov. Robert Bentley; former Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court Roy Moore; State Rep. Ed Henry; and President of the Christian Coalition of Alabama Dr. Randy Brinson.

Other candidates may still join the contest in the coming days, with Republican State Sen. Del Marsh still on the fence. Meanwhile, Sens. Slade Blackwell and Trip Pittman are also considering a run, as is former Rep. Perry Hooper Jr.

Ron Crumpton is the only Democrat in the race at this time.

The deadline for candidates to qualify for the Senate run is May 17. The primary vote is August 15. The special election is December 12.