Matthews Launches Bid for Alabama CD-2 Seat

Ozark native David Matthews has entered the race for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District, joining a growing Republican field ahead of the State’s Aug. 11 special primary election.

Matthews describes himself as a conservative candidate with experience in agriculture, rural development and finance. His campaign is focused on issues affecting rural Alabama, including farming, small business growth, housing, broadband access and infrastructure.

A two-time appointee under President Donald Trump, Matthews served in several roles at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Washington. His work included positions in USDA’s White House Liaison’s Office, the Farm Service Agency Administrator’s Office and the Office of the Under Secretary for Rural Development.

After leaving government service, Matthews worked in private-sector finance, helping rural borrowers and businesses secure financing through government-backed lending programs.

“I was raised in Ozark. I know rural Alabama because I lived it, and I know Washington because I’ve worked there,” Matthews said. “I’m running for Congress because this district needs a conservative who will fight for our farmers, our small businesses, and our military families. We are building a serious campaign with the experience, relationships, and discipline to deliver results from day one.”

Matthews said his upbringing in the Wiregrass, near Fort Rucker, shaped his understanding of military service and the needs of military families. He and his wife, Emily, are raising five children.

“People across this district share the same priorities,” Matthews said. “They want safe neighborhoods, good schools, respect for their faith and values, strong local economies, and a government that answers to the people, not the other way around. I’ll fight to strengthen agriculture, support small businesses, secure the border, defend our freedoms, and stand up for the communities that keep this state running.”

He also stressed the unusual nature of the upcoming election calendar.

“August 11th is not the usual election day, and turnout will matter,” Matthews said. “If voters want conservative representation rooted in local knowledge and real-world experience, I would be honored to earn their vote.”

The special election follows ongoing legal disputes over Alabama’s congressional district maps. The Aug. 11 primary will determine party nominees without a runoff election.

The race for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District has drawn several Republican candidates seeking to challenge incumbent Democrat Shomari Figures. The Republican field also includes Hampton Harris, State Rep. Rhett Marques, Christian Horn, Joshua McKee and James Richardson.