Gingrich Backs Waggoner for Alabama Senate Reelection

Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich has announced his endorsement of State Senator Jabo Waggoner, citing the Vestavia Hills Republican’s long record of conservative leadership and service.

Gingrich pointed to Waggoner’s role in reshaping Alabama’s political landscape and advancing Republican priorities over several decades:

“Sen. Jabo Waggoner is an icon of the conservative movement in Alabama. He helped open the door that transformed the State into a Republican stronghold for the last several decades.

“From defending traditional values to demanding commonsense budget practices to replacing the failed Democrat policies of the past with modern conservative reforms, Jabo has always led the way.

“This is why I asked him to serve as chairman of my presidential campaign in Alabama in 2012, and it is why I am proud to call him my friend.

“Sen. Waggoner continues to be a leading voice bringing conservative change to Montgomery, and for all of the reasons noted above, he has earned a new term in the Alabama State Senate.”

Waggoner responded by thanking Gingrich and reflecting on their shared political history, including pivotal Republican gains at both the state and national levels.

“Just as Speaker Gingrich led the Republican takeover of the U.S. Congress in 1994 following 40 consecutive years of Democrat rule, I was proud to play a part in Republicans capturing supermajorities in the Alabama House and Senate in 2010 following 136 years of Democrat control,” Waggoner said. “Speaker Gingrich remains a powerful and influential voice in conservative Republican circles, and I am proud to consider him a longtime friend and advisor.”

Waggoner, widely recognized as the longest-serving lawmaker in Alabama history, has built a record that spans more than five decades. He first won election to the Alabama House of Representatives in 1966 and served until 1983. After switching to the Republican Party, he mounted a congressional bid before returning to State politics with his election to the Alabama Senate in 1990.

Following the GOP’s historic 2010 victories, Waggoner was chosen by his colleagues as the first Republican majority leader in Alabama history. He also took on the role of Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, a key post that shapes the chamber’s legislative agenda. He has held that position for the past 15 years.

Now serving his eighth term in the Senate, Waggoner’s tenure is expected to exceed 53 years by the end of the current quadrennium. His length of service is considered unmatched in State history.

Among his many honors is the Ronald Reagan Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his commitment to conservative principles and public service.

Waggoner and his wife, Marilyn, have been married for 67 years and are active members of the Homewood Church of Christ.