The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
Norman Crow is running for HD63 as a Republican
Judith Taylor is running for HD63
August 9, 2025 - TUSCALOOSA, AL - The race for Alabama House District 63 is shaping up to be a compelling contest between two deeply rooted Tuscaloosa leaders: Republican Norman Crow and Democrat Judith Taylor. With the general election set for January 13, 2026, voters will choose between two candidates who offer sharply contrasting visions for the district, which includes much of downtown Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama.
Norman Crow: Conservative Leadership Grounded in Business and Service
Norman Crow, a Tuscaloosa native and longtime businessman, brings a resume steeped in private sector experience and civic engagement. A graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in accounting, Crow began his career in the energy sector, working for companies like Southern Natural Gas, Duke Energy, and Reliant Energy. He later founded DT Freight, a local transportation business, and currently works as a licensed real estate agent with Hamner Real Estate.
Crow's public service record includes time on the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education and his current role as a City Councilman representing District 3. He has chaired the Boys & Girls Club of West Alabama, the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority, and served on the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.
His campaign emphasizes economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and community-focused leadership. "I know what it takes to run a business - to meet a payroll, create jobs, and grow opportunity," Crow said. "Those same principles - accountability, service, and results - have guided my work on the City Council and will shape how I represent the people of District 63 in Montgomery".
Crow positions himself as a pragmatic conservative who understands the intersection of business and governance. His supporters praise his ability to navigate complex economic issues and his commitment to strengthening Tuscaloosa's infrastructure and educational institutions.
Judith Taylor: A Voice for Equity, Inclusion, and Grassroots Advocacy
Judith Taylor is running for HD63
Judith C. Taylor, the Democratic nominee, offers a markedly different approach. A retired educator and business owner, Taylor has spent decades advocating for civil rights, economic justice, and inclusive leadership. Her campaign is rooted in a lifetime of grassroots activism, from marching for civil rights in the 1960s to mentoring students and feeding neighbors in need.
Taylor's platform centers on progressive policies aimed at uplifting underserved communities. She calls for fully funded public education, fair tax reform, and stronger partnerships with labor to create sustainable job opportunities. "District 63 needs a representative in Montgomery who is not afraid to speak up for people who've been left out and overlooked," Taylor said. "Parts of our district are being ignored, and that's not acceptable".
Her personal story is one of perseverance and purpose. She credits her husband James, a retired college professor, as her anchor and partner in faith. Together, they've built a life centered on service and community. Taylor's campaign slogan, "Taylor Made for HD63," reflects her belief in tailored, people-first leadership that prioritizes fairness over politics.
Taylor's supporters view her as a moral compass for the district - someone who will challenge entrenched interests and advocate for working families, rural communities, and marginalized voices.
Campaign Finance Comparison
As of August 2025, Norman Crow's campaign has demonstrated a strong fundraising operation, backed by Tuscaloosa business leaders and conservative donors. His campaign website and public filings indicate support from real estate professionals, economic development groups, and civic organizations.
Judith Taylor's campaign, while grassroots in nature, has not yet released detailed finance reports. According to local news sources, her campaign finance records were not available as of late June. Taylor's fundraising strategy appears to rely more on small-dollar donations and community support, consistent with her progressive platform.
This disparity in financial resources could shape the dynamics of the race, with Crow likely to benefit from broader advertising and outreach capabilities, while Taylor leans on direct voter engagement and volunteer mobilization.
Contrasts in Vision and Style
The Crow-Taylor matchup offers voters a clear ideological choice. Crow's campaign leans on his business acumen and record of civic leadership, promising efficient governance and economic development. Taylor, by contrast, emphasizes social equity, grassroots empowerment, and a challenge to the status quo.
Crow's style is methodical and results-driven, shaped by years in the private sector and local government. Taylor's approach is relational and values-based, informed by decades of activism and community care.
Both candidates are deeply embedded in Tuscaloosa's civic fabric, but their priorities diverge. Crow is likely to focus on infrastructure, business incentives, and educational accountability. Taylor is expected to champion public investment, labor rights, and inclusive policymaking.
What's at Stake
House District 63 has long been a pivotal seat in Alabama politics, given its proximity to the University of Alabama and its role in shaping Tuscaloosa's legislative agenda. The seat was vacated by Rep. Cynthia Almond following her appointment as president of the Alabama Public Service Commission. With no incumbents in the race, the January election will determine the district's direction for years to come.
The outcome could also signal broader political trends in Alabama. A Crow victory would reinforce Republican dominance in the state legislature, while a Taylor win would mark a significant breakthrough for Democrats in a traditionally conservative stronghold.
Final Thoughts
As the campaign heats up, voters in HD63 will be weighing two distinct paths forward. Norman Crow offers continuity, experience, and a business-minded approach to governance. Judith Taylor brings passion, progressive ideals, and a commitment to inclusive representation.
In a district that blends tradition with transformation, the choice between Crow and Taylor is more than political - it's a reflection of what kind of future Tuscaloosa wants to build.
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