Pat Bishop Files for Lt. Gov. on MLK Day to Stress Service

On Monday, January 19, 2026 — the federal holiday commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — retired U.S. Army Major and Cullman County Sheriff’s Deputy Patrick Bishop qualified to run for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama. His campaign tied the moment to a message of service, duty, and unity rooted in his military and law-enforcement background.

By choosing to qualify on this historic day, Bishop seeks to highlight a campaign rooted in the timeless American values of service, justice, and the "Beloved Community" envisioned by Dr. King. For Bishop, a combat veteran and career law enforcement officer, the timing is a deliberate reflection of his commitment to bridging divides and serving all Alabamians with integrity.

"Dr. King once said that 'Life's most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?'" Bishop said. "Today, as I officially enter this race, I am answering that call. I am running for Lieutenant Governor because I believe leadership is not about title or status; it is about service and the courage to stand up for what is right, regardless of the political cost."

Bishop told supporters the decision followed serious reflection and prayer. “I prayed sincerely about this calling. I knew it would be a challenge to face candidates with name recognition and deep pockets, but I was not issued a fear gene. I will press onward because Alabama deserves leadership that prioritizes the people over politics,” he said upon launching his campaign.

Bishop’s platform centers on what he calls a “People First” approach to leadership in Montgomery. He emphasizes bringing common-sense solutions and long experience in service to state government. His campaign highlights these priorities:

• Unity and Equality: Advocate for policies that ensure every Alabamian, regardless of background, has a seat at the table and the opportunity to thrive.
• Veteran and First Responder Advocacy: Use his 26 years of military service and law enforcement experience to champion those who protect communities.
• Integrity in Government: Bring a “man of action” mentality to fight corruption and increase transparency in state government.

The campaign also stresses broader issues drawn from Bishop’s longer policy outline. These include education reform, equal rights and justice for all, protection of religious freedoms and free speech, fair taxation, business growth, and election integrity — aims he frames as rooted in fundamental American values.

Bishop’s campaign recently released a new commercial to amplify his message. In the ad, Alabama attorney Joy Morris explains why she supports him: “If you want someone who is all about God, family, our country, our State, the citizens in it, and making things better — and not just thinking about making things better but actually doing what’s needed to make it better — Pat Bishop is the one you want to vote for.”

Supporters describe his campaign as grounded in common-sense conservative principles, emphasizing faith, family, and service beyond politics. Bishop often stresses that he sees himself as a servant leader rather than a career politician — a theme that appears repeatedly in his public remarks and materials.

Bishop retired from the U.S. Army after 26 years, rising to the rank of major, and later served in law enforcement with the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office. He is also an ordained minister and active community advocate. His entry adds to a crowded Republican primary field that includes current Secretary of State Wes Allen, Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate, Dr. Nicole Wadsworth, Lee County Pastor Dean Odle, and others vying for the open Lieutenant Governor nomination.

By qualifying on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Bishop’s campaign seeks to underscore his focus on service and collective progress — themes he says reflect both his personal journey and the broader ideals he wants to bring to state leadership.

For more information about Patrick Bishop’s campaign and vision for Alabama, visit his campaign website, www.Bishopforbama.com.