Alabama Democrats Highlight PSC Races in May Primary

Alabama Democrats on Wednesday announced a competitive slate of candidates for the May 19 Democratic primary for two seats on the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC), underscoring what party leaders call the growing importance of utility oversight and fairness for residents across the State. (Bama Politics)

For PSC Place 1, Democrats are fielding John Northrop and Jeff Ramsey. Sheila McNeil is running unopposed in the Place 2 Democratic contest.

McNeil, a former City Councilwoman in San Antonio and current Chair of the Madison County Democrats, frames her run around giving voters both a choice and a voice on the PSC. “I believe power should rest with the public, not with power companies,” McNeil said in a campaign statement. “Democracy is being undermined, and it is time to elect someone who will fight for fair rates, modern infrastructure, and a power grid that works for everyone.”

Ramsey, a Mobile native popular on social media as “thatalabamafella,” says his campaign is rooted in representing working-class families. He noted the strain rising power bills place on everyday Alabamians. “What we’ve been doing isn’t working. Politicians aren’t fighting for Alabama’s working-class folks, and it’s time we change that… There’s no reason Alabama Power and other utilities shouldn’t be open books,” Ramsey said.

Northrop, an educator and journalist, pointed to Alabama’s high electricity costs and long-term energy challenges. “We need transparent regulation and thoughtful energy policies to build a prosperous and livable Alabama,” he said in a statement.

The PSC is the Statewide elected body that regulates investor-owned utilities such as Alabama Power and gas providers. It oversees rates, service quality, and infrastructure decisions that affect millions of residents and businesses. Commissioners serve four-year terms; the two associate positions on the ballot this year are elected in midterm cycles like 2026.

The Public Service Commission’s decisions have real impact on what ratepayers pay and how they receive service. For instance, the PSC recently approved a two-year freeze on several utility rate components, a move that drew both praise and scrutiny because long-term effects are unclear.

According to State records, the PSC’s role includes setting equitable, reliable utility service standards and balancing consumer interests with those of regulated companies.

Across the State, energy costs and utility transparency remain top concerns for many voters. Some consumer advocates and watchdogs have criticized the PSC for limited public involvement in rate and infrastructure decisions — a point that Democratic candidates are underscoring as they seek broader engagement and accountability.

Alabama’s Democratic Party is encouraging voters to learn more about the candidates and the Commission’s work ahead of the May 19 primary. Winners will move on to the general election in November, where they will face their Republican opponents.

The full press conference may be seen on Chad DuBose’s Facebook page at THIS LINK.