MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Public Television’s Don Dailey aired his final show as host of Capitol Journal Friday, ending a remarkable ten year run leading the state’s premier program for government and political news.
Gov. Kay Ivey was in studio for Dailey’s final show thanking him for his years of service and presenting him with a proclamation.
“It has been a joy to work with you, Don, and you’ve certainly done a service to the people of Alabama,” Ivey said. “I wish you all the best in the future.”
Attorney General Steve Marshall also appeared in studio presenting a challenge coin and mentioning Dailey’s reputation as a fair and balanced interviewer.
“That’s a small token to say thank you, not only for the professionalism you’ve handled this position with these last ten years, but as somebody who gets to come on your show and talk about the issues of the day, it’s an opportunity to communicate with the people of Alabama about the decisions we make and why we do what we do, you’re always prepared and I’m grateful for the courtesy you’ve shown,” Marshall said.
Other guests included State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris, House Rules Committee Chairman Mike Jones, R-Andalusia, and State Rep. Andrew Sorrell.
“May I say that I’ve been overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring from so many since my retirement was recently announced,” Dailey said signing off from his final broadcast. “It has been a privilege to be with you each week and, during the legislative session each night, to bring you the news about your state government. It has also been an honor to talk to the full spectrum of state leaders who make decisions on your behalf.”
Dailey thanked APT Executive Director Phil Hutcheson and the Capitol Journal team of Randy Scott, Karen Goldsmith, John Holman and Rod Richardson for making the show possible.
“I’ve had a fantastic run in broadcasting, a journey that began in my senior year of high school and has continued for 40 years. What a ride it has been.”
Capitol Journal will return after the new year with its first show on Friday, Jan. 7. Alabama Daily News Publisher Todd Stacy will be the new host of the program, which airs nightly during the legislative session at 10:30 p.m. on local Alabama Public Television stations.