Barry Moore Leads GOP Senate Field with Strong Q3 Fundraising and Key Conservative Support

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) has emerged as a frontrunner in the race for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat, leading all Republican candidates in third-quarter fundraising and securing high-profile support from prominent conservatives, including House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan. Moore’s longstanding alignment with former President Donald Trump further strengthens his conservative credentials, setting him apart from competitors like Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall as the 2026 GOP primary approaches.

According to Federal Election Commission filings, Moore’s campaign raised $518,556 from July through September 2024, outpacing his closest rivals by roughly $100,000. The haul included $399,969 from individual donors and $114,024 from political action committees, reflecting strong support from grassroots contributors and Alabama’s key industries. Notable PACs backing Moore included the U.S. Peanut PAC, Vulcan Materials PAC, and the Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers PAC, highlighting his ties to the state’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

Since launching his campaign in August, Moore has raised $778,359 overall, with Q3 expenditures of $214,044 primarily directed toward fundraising, consulting, and digital advertising. This left his campaign with $557,279 in cash on hand as of September 30, giving him a slight edge over competitors and ample resources for an early campaign push.

The GOP field remains competitive as candidates vie to replace Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who announced plans to run for governor. Steve Marshall, who entered the race in May, raised $417,891 in Q3, including $361,048 from individuals, $14,500 from PACs, and a $42,343 transfer from his prior campaign committee. Marshall’s total fundraising stands at $824,208, but with $245,291 spent in the quarter, his cash reserves of $555,553 trail Moore’s by a slight margin. Other Republicans lagged further behind: former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson raised $330,862 from individuals, ending with $357,039 after spending $174,972. Businessman Rodney Walker reported $389,419, largely from a $325,000 personal loan and a $50,000 self-contribution, leaving $359,887 after $29,532 in expenditures. Morgan Murphy, a late entrant, was not required to file a Q3 report.

Democratic candidates showed modest activity: Mobile businessman Kyle Sweetser raised $21,733 but spent $27,823, leaving $5,398 on hand. Entrepreneur Dakarai Larriett collected $24,968, nearly offset by $25,038 in spending, for a $25,504 cash position. Chemist Mark Wheeler has yet to file his October report.

Beyond fundraising, Moore’s campaign gained momentum from significant conservative support. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan recently endorsed Moore, praising him as a “tested conservative champion” who will advance GOP priorities and stand firm against progressive policies. Jordan highlighted their long-standing alliance, including co-chairing efforts in the House and a joint event in Dothan in January 2024. Moore called Jordan a steadfast ally, pledging to carry their shared conservative principles to the Senate. Read more about Jordan’s endorsement here.

Moore’s close alignment with former President Trump further bolsters his campaign. As the first elected official nationwide to support Trump’s 2015 presidential bid, Moore has maintained a strong relationship with the former president. Recently, Moore praised Trump’s role in brokering a Gaza peace deal that freed hostages, texting Trump to commend the agreement as a diplomatic triumph. Trump responded positively, sharing the exchange publicly. Moore described the deal as a historic achievement and emphasized his long-standing support for Trump’s leadership. Details on their exchange are available here. This connection distinguishes Moore from Marshall, who lacks comparable ties to national conservative figures.

Moore’s financial and political momentum signals strength in a primary that could draw national attention, given Alabama’s status as a Republican stronghold. Rated the state’s most conservative member by the Conservative Political Action Conference and its top legislator by the Center for Legislative Excellence, Moore—a small-business owner, Auburn graduate, and Alabama National Guard veteran—has built a record of opposing Biden administration policies while championing farmers, veterans, and Wiregrass workers.

Campaign officials highlighted Moore’s Q3 results and conservative support as evidence of strong backing from Alabamians who value his record. With the May 2026 primary over a year away, Moore’s fundraising lead and high-profile alliances position him to dominate grassroots efforts and advertising. As the race intensifies, candidates are now focusing on the critical year-end fundraising reports.