Stacy George: From Correctional Officer to Independent Gubernatorial Candidate

Stacy George's name has become increasingly familiar across Alabama's political landscape. Once a local official and now a prominent figure in state politics, George's trajectory is marked by persistence, transformation, and a refusal to be defined by party lines. His latest bid for Alabama Governor is unique-not only is he running as an independent, but he is also leveraging his firsthand experience within the state's correctional system to influence the debate on prison reform and broader governmental change.

Political Beginnings and Early Campaigns

George's political career began in Morgan County, where he served as County Commissioner. His first foray into state-wide politics was in 2014, when he challenged then-incumbent Governor Robert Bentley (R) in the Republican primary. George returned to the campaign trail in 2022, seeking to unseat Governor Kay Ivey (R). Though both attempts were unsuccessful, George's persistence and willingness to confront difficult issues have helped him carve out a distinct identity within Alabama politics.

What sets George apart from many of his contemporaries is his willingness to operate outside the traditional boundaries of party politics. His current campaign as an independent reflects a growing trend among voters-and candidates-seeking alternatives to the entrenched partisanship that often stymies progress. For George, the decision to run independently is not just strategic but deeply personal, rooted in his experiences and the conviction that real change requires stepping away from the status quo.

A National Spotlight: The Alabama Solution

George's national profile was boosted by his prominent role in the HBO documentary "The Alabama Solution." The documentary, which explored the chronic challenges facing Alabama's prison system, featured George's candid criticism of the Department of Corrections-a department where he served as a corrections officer for over thirteen years. His insights, drawn from years spent on the front lines of prison management, provided viewers a rare glimpse into the daily realities and systemic issues plaguing the state's correctional facilities.

Reflecting on his time as a corrections officer, George describes it as "life changing." He underscores the disconnect between public perception and the actual responsibilities of those working behind prison walls. "A lot of people call us prison guards because that's what you see if you watch the movie 'The Alabama Solution.' That's what you see as prison guards, but we're highly trained correctional officers," George emphasized. Despite months of intensive training, he notes that many officers ultimately revert to the role of prison guards, a reflection of the institutional culture and pressures inside Alabama's prisons.

Faith, Ministry, and Purpose Beyond Politics

George's journey is marked not only by political ambition but also by a deep sense of faith and purpose. He credits his transformation and current path to divine intervention, expressing humility and gratitude for what he describes as God's guidance. "I'm very humbled by what God has done because there's nothing man could have done to put me where he's put me," George said in a recent interview.

In addition to his political activities, George is actively involved in setting up ministries and LLCs, expanding his impact beyond the campaign trail. "I'm doing ministry setup. I'm doing things I couldn't even tell you how many things I'm doing now. The political thing I'm doing is just one faction of what I'm doing right now," he explained. This multifaceted approach speaks to his commitment to service-whether that takes the form of public office, community outreach, or spiritual leadership.

Advocacy for Prison Reform

Central to George's campaign and public discourse is his advocacy for prison reform. His firsthand experience lends credibility and urgency to his calls for improved conditions and better staffing across Alabama's correctional facilities. According to recent figures, as of May 2025, there are 20,191 people incarcerated in Alabama's prison system. George has been vocal about the challenges faced by officers and inmates alike, pointing to understaffing, demanding work conditions, and the need for systemic overhaul.

"At times when I left the prison, there was five officers. Now that's better now. They've lowered the standards. They're paying more money. They've got recruiters out. When I left that prison three years ago, there was five officers watching 2,300 inmates. So who was running the prison?" George recounted. The situation was so dire that some officers resorted to sleeping at the facility, especially during inclement weather, just to ensure adequate coverage. "There was no limit on overtime. That's the reason officers (were) making three-digit, $120, $130,000 a year," he explained, highlighting the strain and risks placed on both staff and the incarcerated population.

Facing the Future: Vision and Challenges

As George embarks on his independent campaign for governor, he faces significant challenges. Running without the backing of a major party means fewer resources and less institutional support, but it also grants him the freedom to advocate for bold reforms and address issues often sidelined in mainstream political discourse. His platform is rooted in transparency, accountability, and a commitment to elevating the voices of those most affected by policy decisions-especially within the criminal justice system.

George's unique combination of political experience, frontline service, and personal conviction positions him as a candidate capable of bridging divides and challenging entrenched interests. Whether or not his campaign succeeds, his influence is already evident in the growing conversation around prison reform and the role of independent voices in shaping Alabama's future.

Conclusion: A New Path for Alabama?

Staci George's story is emblematic of the changing dynamics in American politics. His willingness to challenge the system from within and outside, his advocacy for those often ignored by policymakers, and his embrace of faith and service reflect a broader movement toward inclusive, responsive government. As Alabama faces complex challenges-from prison overcrowding to economic development-candidates like George remind voters that leadership can come from unexpected places, shaped by experience, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to change.

George has chosen a difficult path for the Governor's race. If he is able to qualify for the ballot he would have to face both the Democratic and Republican nominees for Governor.

The Republican and Democratic primary are on May 19, 2026. That is also the deadline for independents to turn in all of the ballot signatures they need to make the ballot. George recently spoke about his campaign on the Brandon and Christopher Show Podcast hosted by Alabama Gazette lead reporter and content manager Brandon Moseley and Alabama Political Contributor Christopher Peeks.