Alabama Forestry Association Endorses Tommy Tuberville for Governor

June 26, 2025 - MONTGOMERY, AL - U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville has secured a major endorsement in his 2026 gubernatorial bid, with the Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) announcing its support for the former Auburn football coach and current senator. The endorsement adds to Tuberville's growing list of backers as he positions himself as the frontrunner in the Republican primary.

In a statement released Thursday, AFA President and CEO Chris Isaacson praised Tuberville's record in the U.S. Senate, particularly his advocacy for Alabama's forestry industry and rural economy.

"Coach's record is second to none in fighting for the forest industry in the U.S. Senate," Isaacson said. "His work to roll back regulations that hinder businesses and fight for Alabama First policies form the foundation for his platform. He is the leader that Alabama needs and AFA is proud to endorse Coach for Governor".

A Record of Forestry Advocacy

During his time in the Senate, Tuberville supported legislation such as the Disaster Reforestation Act, aimed at helping landowners recover from natural disasters, and opposed international regulations like the European Union Deforestation Regulations, which he argued would unfairly burden American producers.

Tuberville has also led forestry tours across Alabama in partnership with the AFA and the Alabama Forestry Commission, highlighting the industry's role in job creation, conservation, and economic development.

Tuberville Responds

Tuberville welcomed the endorsement, framing it as validation of his commitment to cutting red tape and defending Alabama's natural resources.

"I am grateful to be endorsed by the Alabama Forestry Association," he said. "During my time in the Senate, I have worked to support Alabama's foresters and producers who were hit hard by the Biden administration's unnecessary regulations that made prices skyrocket. As governor, I will work to cut ridiculous red tape, reduce inflation, and get government out of the way".

Looking Ahead to 2026

Though the gubernatorial election is still more than a year away, Tuberville has already emerged as a dominant figure in early polling. His name recognition, fundraising capacity, and alignment with conservative priorities have made him a formidable contender.

The AFA's endorsement is expected to carry weight in rural and agricultural communities, where forestry remains a key economic driver. Alabama's forest industry contributes more than $28 billion annually to the state's economy and supports over 120,000 jobs.

As the campaign season heats up, Tuberville's alliance with the AFA signals a broader strategy to consolidate support among business leaders, landowners, and rural voters.