Democrats Need a Different Strategy and a Different Candidate
“That candidate is Dr. Will Boyd”—Guest Opinion by Rick Neighbors
Guest Opinion by Rick Neighbors
Let me share my thoughts on the Democratic primary for governor—and why Doug Jones cannot win a general election in Alabama.
In 2017, Jones defeated Roy Moore by just 22,852 votes—a margin of 1.69%. That race was an anomaly. Moore was a deeply flawed candidate, and the election occurred during a wave of national backlash and unusually energized turnout.
In 2020, when conditions returned to normal, Jones lost to Tommy Tuberville by 471,598 votes—a margin of over 20%. That wasn’t close. That was decisive. And it happened during one of the highest-turnout elections in Alabama history.
That 2020 result tells us something important: the 2017 victory was the exception—not the rule.
So what is the path forward being proposed by Jones?
High turnout in urban counties like Jefferson, Madison, and Montgomery.
Strong Black Belt turnout.
Crossover Republican votes.
But we tried that. And in 2020, it didn’t work.
The reality is this: Doug Jones’ only proven path to victory requires a uniquely flawed opponent. We cannot base our future on hoping the other side self-destructs.
We need a different strategy—and a different candidate.
That candidate is Dr. Will Boyd.
Dr. Boyd speaks directly to the economic frustration many Alabamians feel. He understands that our current system is not delivering for the people who actually produce the goods and services that sustain this state.
He also understands something even more fundamental: a strong education system determines our future prosperity.
Education is not just about schools, it is about workforce readiness, critical thinking, and preparing the next generation to compete in a modern economy. Without a strong education system, we cannot build high-value industries, attract investment, or create the kind of jobs that allow families to thrive.
Dr. Boyd sees the connection between education and economic development. He knows that if we invest in our schools, our teachers, and our students, we are investing directly in Alabama’s long-term prosperity.
He doesn’t speak in polished legal language. He speaks plainly. Clearly. Like someone you’d sit down with at your kitchen table and trust.
While others talk about headlines and distractions, Dr. Boyd is focused on the future, on education, workforce development, and transforming Alabama from a state that exports raw resources into one that produces high-value finished goods.
That’s how we create better jobs.
That’s how we raise wages.
That’s how we build long-term stability for our families.
We don’t need more of the same.
We need leadership that understands where we are - and where we need to go.
Let’s do something different for a change.
Let’s elect the best person for the job: Dr. Will Boyd.
Rick Neighbors
Franklin County
Rick Neighbors is from Hackleburg, AL. He last ran for office in the 2022 Alabama 4th Congressional District election.
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