***This story has been corrected from an earlier version to say that Matthew Hammett is a relative of Seth Hammett, but not his son.
By CAROLINE BECK, Alabama Daily News
Covington County businessman Matthew Hammett announced his campaign for House District 92 on Tuesday, making him the second Republican to enter the race.
“As a cattleman, poultry producer, water-well contractor and small business owner, I understand the value of looking a person in the eye and telling the truth,” Hammett said. “I am committed to working for the citizens of Covington, Coffee and Escambia counties. I’d appreciate the opportunity to serve you in the Alabama Legislature, to ensure our district remains pro-family, is business friendly, and I pledge to be available to listen to your concerns and be your voice in Montgomery at the State House.”
Hammett is a relative of former Alabama Speaker of the House Seth Hammett, who represented the district.
Current seat holder Rep. Mike Jones, R-Andalusia, announced in July that he would be running for Senate District 31 after Sen. Jimmy Holley, R-Elba, announced his retirement.
Covington County Commission Chairman Greg White has also announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for House District 92.
White served as chairman for 13 years starting in 1995 and was reelected again in 2016 and 2020.
“My position with the County Commission has afforded me the opportunity to work closely with economic development in Covington County and Southeast Alabama,” White said in a statement last month. “I will always be a champion for small business, and I will continue working daily to bring jobs and economic growth to our region.”
White is a private practice certified public accountant. According to Alabama campaign finance reports, White has $9,750 cash-on-hand as of the end of July.
House District 92 includes all of Covington County, eastern Escambia County and a portion of western Coffee County. The district is reliably Republican with Jones facing no Democratic challenger in the 2018 general election.
The 2022 primaries are May 24. Candidates have until Jan. 28 to declare their campaigns.