Huntsville Native Burton Launches Alabama Senate Bid

Seth Burton, a Huntsville native and retired U.S. Navy nuclear submarine Captain, has officially filed to run for the United States Senate in Alabama’s 2026 Republican primary.

Burton served more than 30 years in the U.S. Navy, where he commanded nuclear submarines and led missions tied to national security. In announcing his candidacy, Burton said he is running to bring accountability, discipline, and practical leadership to Washington.

“Alabama is my home — and it is worth fighting for,” Burton said. “For three decades, I was entrusted with America’s most serious responsibilities, where failure was not an option and accountability mattered. That kind of leadership is missing in Washington today.”

Raised along the Tennessee River in North Alabama, Burton said his upbringing and military service shaped his commitment to public service and national responsibility. As a submarine Captain, he led diverse crews, managed complex systems worth billions of dollars, and made decisions where mistakes carried serious consequences.

Burton criticized political dysfunction in Washington, along with what he described as unchecked federal spending and excessive regulation, arguing they threaten both economic stability and national security.

“Washington doesn’t need more career politicians,” Burton said. “It needs leaders who understand war and peace, energy security, and responsibility — leaders who have actually been accountable for outcomes.”

Energy policy is a central focus of Burton’s campaign. He said long-term economic growth depends on reliable and affordable energy, and that Alabama is well positioned to lead in nuclear power, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies.

“The future economy will follow abundant, reliable energy,” Burton said. “Alabama can lead the nation — creating good-paying jobs, strengthening national security, and ensuring our children can build their futures right here at home in Alabama.”

Burton said he is running as a political outsider focused on individual liberty, secure borders, and a government that answers to the people it serves.

Burton and his wife, Danete, live in Huntsville and are active in their faith, community, and civic life.

“I respectfully ask for the support and vote of Alabama Republicans in the May 19 primary,” Burton said.

Burton joins a competitive field of candidates vying for the party’s nomination. Burton joins a competitive field of candidates including Attorney General Steve Marshall, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, Morgan Murphy, Jared Hudson, Dale Shelton Deas Jr., and Rodney Walker.

For more information on Burton and his campaign, visit https://sethburtonforsenate.com or follow him on social media.