Alabama Cannabis Coalition Endorses Dr. Will Boyd in 2026 Governor’s Race
ACC praised Boyd as a “voice of reason for the freedom of the citizens of Alabama to have ‘legal’ access to Hemp/Cannabis in Alabama”
The Alabama Cannabis Coalition has officially thrown its support behind Dr. Will Boyd’s 2026 gubernatorial campaign. In a statement issued July 23, the grassroots, non‑partisan group praised Boyd as a “voice of reason for the freedom of the citizens of Alabama to have ‘legal’ access to Hemp/Cannabis in Alabama.” The Coalition added, “We have a long road to 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL but we are inspired, committed and we hope to inspire the citizens of Alabama to finally stand up, speak out and demand to be heard.”
The endorsement marks a significant shift in the candidate landscape, representing a rare setback for Republican contender U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, who until now had secured major endorsements statewide.
Dr. Boyd responded with gratitude, stating: “On behalf of myself and the entire campaign team, thank you to the Alabama Cannabis Coalition for your powerful endorsement. We are deeply honored to have earned your trust and support in our shared fight for justice, smart cannabis reform, and a better, more equitable Alabama.” He added: “Together, Alabama can. Alabama WILL.”
Dr. Will Boyd is a pastor, business leader, and educator with a deep track record in politics and civic service. He was the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in 2022, and previously ran for Lieutenant Governor in 2018 as well as for Congress in 2016.
Born in Florence, South Carolina, Boyd earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the University of South Carolina, an MBA from Regis University, and Doctorates in religion, organization and management, and psychology. He has held leadership roles in academia—including as Chancellor at St. James the Elder University—and serves as Presiding Bishop of Zion Ministries and Pastor of St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church in Florence.
His public service also includes historic milestones: Boyd became the first African American elected to the Greenville, Illinois City Council and later the first African American major-party nominee for U.S. Senate in Alabama.
Since announcing his gubernatorial bid in June, Boyd has emphasized healthcare access, economic growth, and community stability as his top goals. In an interview with WBRC, he stressed that expanding Medicaid—with 90% funded federally—would cost Alabama just $22.8 million while bringing in almost $400 million in federal funds and helping roughly 283,000 residents. “We have a plan that would put 20,000 people to work with this expansion of Medicaid,” he said. He also raised concerns about proposed federal cuts to Medicaid that could affect up to 190,000 Alabamians.
Boyd highlighted the growing strength of his campaign network, noting more than 600 volunteers across the state and backing from Vision Blue Strategies, led by former DNC chair Jamie Harrison. He added, “I’m always seeking ways to make sure every Alabamian has their voice being heard.”
The Alabama Cannabis Coalition’s endorsement underscores a key theme in Boyd’s platform: cannabis reform. The Coalition has criticized recent state legislation—such as HB 445, which imposes heavy taxes and restrictions on psychoactive cannabinoids—and maintains that Alabama’s stalled medical marijuana program has harmed many, including Veterans and chronic patients. Boyd’s campaign aligns closely with that push. He has called for justice, equitable access, and an end to outdated policies that restrict cannabis use for medicine and personal freedom.
Boyd is one of three declared Democratic primary candidates, alongside Chad “Chig” Martin and Ja’Mel Brown. The primary is set for May 19, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026. No Democrat has been elected governor of Alabama since 1998.
The Alabama Cannabis Coalition’s decision to back Boyd gives him a meaningful edge with voters who favor cannabis and medical freedom reforms. It also provides momentum to his broader message of expanding access to healthcare and listening to all Alabamians’ concerns. As the campaign unfolds, how candidacy alliances shape up could influence not only Boyd’s trajectory but the State’s broader political debate.
For more information on Brown and his campaign, visit DrWillBoyd.com.
For more information on the Alabama Cannabis Coalition, follow them on Facebook.
