Wes Allen received Monday another significant endorsement in his bid to be the state’s next lieutenant governor.
In what could be a six-person primary, the Alabama Forestry Association put their support behind the current secretary of state, former one-term state representative and Pike County probate judge.
“Over the course of his time in public service, Wes has been a friend of forestry,” association President Chris Isaacson said in a written statement. “I recall working with him when he, as Probate Judge, served as a liaison with the county commissions around the state as we passed legislation to improve access to road infrastructure.
“When he was in the House of Representatives, he was one of the most fiscally responsible members and was a staunch proponent of limited government initiatives. Wes understands and supports our industry and we are pleased to endorse him to be the next lieutenant governor.”
Allen is leading fundraising in what is now a six-candidate GOP primary that includes Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture Rick Pate and former Alabama quarterback A.J. McCarron.
Other major groups endorsing Allen so far include the Alabama Farmers Federation and Manufacture Alabama.
“I am honored to have earned the endorsement of the Alabama Forestry Association,” Allen said. “These hardworking men and women help drive Alabama’s economy and I am thankful for their support. Those that work in our state’s forestry sector recognize that I have a proven record of cutting red tape, eliminating wasteful spending and working to create an environment that allows businesses to thrive and Alabamians to work without unnecessary, burdensome government interference.”
Pate’s endorsements to date have included a coalition of business owners and leaders, the Alabama Grocers Association and Associated General Contractors.
According to the latest campaign fundraising data available, Allen has about $946,000 on hand; Pate has $524,000. Commercial real estate agent Nicole Wadsworth had about $230,000.
McCarron, who announced his candidacy in late October, has not yet filed a campaign contribution report.
Dean Odle and Patrick Bishop have also been filing monthly campaign finance reports.
Qualifying for 2026 races is in January. The primary is May 19.