Wahl Takes First in GOP Lt. Governor Primary

John Wahl claimed a first-place finish Tuesday night in Alabama’s Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor, capping a late campaign surge that reshaped the race in its final weeks.

Wahl finished with 41% of the vote, leading his closest opponent, Wes Allen, 41–38 and securing a spot in the Republican runoff, according to unofficial election night results released after polls closed.

The result marked a sharp turnaround for the former Alabama Republican Party chairman, whose campaign said polling just weeks earlier showed him trailing badly in the crowded GOP field.

“Tonight, the people of Alabama sent a clear message: they are tired of career politicians, political games, and empty promises,” Wahl said. “They want a Lieutenant Governor who will stand up, fight for our conservative values, and never back down. I am humbled by the trust voters across this state have placed in me. As Lieutenant Governor, I will never stop fighting for the people of Alabama and the values we believe in.”

Wahl entered the race in January after stepping down as Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party to launch his statewide campaign. His candidacy quickly drew national attention after receiving an endorsement from Donald Trump.

In announcing his campaign earlier this year, Wahl tied his run closely to Trump’s political movement and argued Alabama voters wanted stronger conservative leadership in Montgomery.

“I am proud to have President Trump’s support because I know he cares deeply about America and is fighting every day for our nation,” Wahl said. “We need conservative fighters in Montgomery just like we do in Washington, D.C. I am running to represent the hardworking conservatives of Alabama who are tired of empty promises from politicians and ready for bold leadership that will stand for common sense.”

A small businessman and longtime conservative activist, Wahl built his campaign around issues tied to faith, family, and limited government. He previously served as chairman of the Alabama Republican Party beginning in 2021 before resigning to seek higher office.

The Lieutenant Governor’s race became one of the most closely watched Republican primaries in Alabama this year, with several high-profile candidates competing for the open seat. The campaign also saw sharp exchanges between candidates as the runoff battle took shape.

Following Tuesday’s results, Wahl framed the upcoming runoff as a choice between conservative reform and establishment politics.

“This race is now a clear choice between a proven conservative fighter and politics as usual,” Wahl said. “As Chairman of the Alabama Republican Party, I built a record of standing up for our values, standing with President Trump, and taking action when it matters. I am ready to take this fight for freedom, liberty, and the American Dream to Montgomery. It is time to drain the swamp and put the people back in control again.”

The Republican runoff election will be held on June 16.

For more information on Wahl and his campaign, visit https://votejohnwahl.com.