Rhett Marques Doubles Fundraising Lead in Alabama CD-1 Race

Alabama State Representative Rhett Marques has strengthened his position in the Republican primary for Alabama’s First Congressional District by outpacing rival candidates in campaign fundraising for the second quarter in a row. Federal filings show Marques raised more than $381,000 from October through December 2025 and entered 2026 with over $775,000 in cash on hand — more than twice any other Republican contender in the field.

Marques’ haul significantly outstrips that of former U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl, who raised roughly $153,000 and finished the year with about $308,000 in available funds. Other GOP contenders, including Joshua McKee ($265,355), Austin Sidwell ($24,239), John Mills ($362) reported smaller totals of cash on hand. James Richardson had not posted any filings at press time.

“Christina and I continue to be grateful for the incredible outpouring of support for our campaign. Voters from the Coast to the Wiregrass are making it clear they want a strong conservative who fights for them, not D.C.,” Marques said in a campaign statement. The quote and financial numbers come from official campaign disclosures.

Campaign data reflects broad grassroots backing, with Marques reporting contributions from more than 1,600 individual donors last quarter.

Marques entered the race with strong early endorsements that have helped fuel momentum. U.S. Senator Katie Britt endorsed Marques and contributed the maximum allowable leadership PAC amount to his campaign shortly after he launched his bid. Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and 31 Republican members of the State House Republican Caucus also endorsed the Enterprise lawmaker, praising his conservative record.

State Senator Donnie Chesteen added his support, calling Marques “a conservative Republican who gets things done” and saying he looked forward to Marques representing the district in Washington.

Industry groups have also thrown their weight behind the campaign. The Petroleum and Convenience Marketers Association of Alabama cited Marques’ record of supporting small business owners, and Manufacture Alabama praised his commitment to strengthening the state’s manufacturing base.

Marques has centered his campaign message on conservative priorities. According to his campaign, he plans to work with President Trump, Senator Britt and Alabama’s Republican delegation to cut taxes, protect families and advance policies that he says will benefit hardworking Alabamians.

The Republican primary to replace outgoing Rep. Barry Moore is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

For more information, visit rhettforalabama.com.