The Business Council of Alabama announced two major endorsements Thursday. Republicans Sen. Jack Williams for state agriculture commissioner and Derek Chen for state auditor.
In a written statement, BCA’s political action committee ProgressPAC said Williams’ conservative, pro-industry record has earned him a reputation as a dependable partner for Alabama’s agriculture and business owners. Williams is a fourth-term state senator and fourth-generation farmer from Mobile County.
“Senator Jack Williams has spent his life fighting for Alabama’s farmers and rural communities. His deep agricultural expertise and business-minded leadership make him the right choice to serve as Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries,” said Gary Smith, chair of ProgressPAC.
Smith continued, “ProgressPAC is confident he will continue standing up for the industries that feed, fuel, and support our state and make it easier for them to do business and compete across markets.”
Of Chen and his campaign for state auditory, BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan said his experience as a lawyer and businessman make him well suited for the job of rooting out waste, fraud and abuse in state government.
“Derek Chen’s professional background, coupled with his commitment to accountability and transparency, makes him exceptionally well-suited for the office of State Auditor,” said Duncan. “His dedication to responsible government reflects the values of Alabama’s business community. ProgressPAC is proud to support him.”
Chen is facing Prattville attorney and pastor Josh Pendergrass in the GOP primary set for May 19. Pendergrass also served as communications director for Gov. Kay Ivey.
According to the most recent campaign finance reports, Chen has $350,855 cash on hand to Pendergrass’ $14,724.
The race for ag commissioner is a more crowded field. Williams, who has been campaigning for the statewide office since early last year, is one of three Republicans raising money ahead of the May 19 primary.
According to the most recent campaign finance reports, Williams has raised about $460,000, loaned his campaign another $250,000 and had $593,648 on hand at the end of November.
Baldwin County business owner Christina Woerner McInnis has raised about $302,000, loaned her campaign $525,000 and has $458,435 on hand.
Douglas Mayor and farmer Corey Hill has raised $146,850, loaned his campaign $40,000 and has $164,978 on hand.
The Alabama Forestry Association also endorsed Williams. Alabama Associated General Contractors endorsed McInnis. Hill was endorsed by the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Alabama Grocers Association.