Cullman County Voters Head to the Polls for House District 11 Special Election

August 26, 2025 - Cullman County residents are casting ballots today, August 26, 2025, in a special election that could reshape representation in Alabama's House District 11. The race was triggered by the resignation of longtime Republican Rep. Randall Shedd, who stepped down earlier this year citing personal reasons and a desire to spend more time with family. His departure opened the door for a rare competitive contest in a district that has been reliably Republican for decades.

The special election coincides with municipal elections across Cullman County, meaning many voters will be navigating multiple races and, in some cases, multiple polling locations. With polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., election officials are urging voters to double-check their precinct assignments and bring valid photo identification.

A Rare Two-Party Contest

House District 11 spans portions of Cullman and Blount counties and has not seen a Democratic challenger in nearly 20 years. That changed this cycle with the candidacy of Alex Braswell, an American Sign Language interpreter and community advocate who is running as a Democrat. Braswell's campaign has focused on expanding access to healthcare, improving public education, and supporting working families-issues he says resonate across party lines.

Facing Braswell is Heath Allbright, a small business owner and former member of the Cullman County Board of Education. Allbright secured the Republican nomination earlier this summer and has campaigned on conservative values, economic development, and parental rights in education. His background in both business and local governance has earned him endorsements from several prominent Republican figures in the region.

While the district leans heavily Republican, Braswell's entry into the race has sparked renewed interest among voters, particularly younger residents and those in more urbanized parts of Cullman County. Political observers note that while a Democratic win remains a long shot, the presence of a competitive race could boost turnout and shape future candidate recruitment efforts.

Local Stakes and Legislative Impact

The outcome of today's election will determine who represents District 11 in the Alabama House of Representatives for the remainder of Shedd's term, which runs through 2026. The winner will enter a legislature currently dominated by Republicans, with ongoing debates over education funding, infrastructure investment, and rural healthcare access.

For Cullman County, the stakes are both symbolic and practical. The district has long been a bellwether for conservative politics in North Alabama, and the transition from Shedd's tenure to a new representative marks a generational shift. Both candidates have emphasized their ties to the community and their commitment to representing local interests in Montgomery.

Allbright has pledged to continue Shedd's legacy of supporting agricultural development and rural broadband expansion, while Braswell has positioned himself as a fresh voice for underserved populations and disability advocacy. The contrast in platforms offers voters a clear choice, even in a district where partisan loyalty has historically overshadowed policy nuance.

Navigating the Ballot

Because the special election overlaps with municipal contests, some voters may encounter logistical quirks at the polls. For example, residents of Cullman city may vote in both the House District 11 race and city council elections-but at separate locations. Election officials have published updated precinct maps and sample ballots online, and local media outlets have provided guides to help voters prepare.

Voters are reminded to bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, state-issued ID card, or passport. Curbside voting is available for individuals with disabilities, and absentee ballots must be received by the close of polls to be counted.

Looking Ahead

Regardless of the outcome, today's election marks a moment of civic engagement in Cullman County and a test of political messaging in a traditionally one-party district. If Braswell performs strongly-even without winning-it could signal shifting dynamics and encourage broader participation in future races. For Allbright, a victory would reinforce Republican dominance while introducing a new voice to the state legislature.

The Alabama Secretary of State's office is expected to release unofficial results later tonight, with certified totals to follow in the coming days. As voters make their choices, the race in House District 11 serves as a reminder that even in familiar political terrain, change is always possible-and every vote counts.