The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
March 10, 2026 - Former State Representative Perry O. Hooper Jr., longtime Alabama political figure and Republican strategist, joined Brandon Moseley and Christopher Peeks on The BCS: State of Alabama Podcast for a wide‑ranging conversation touching on party leadership, ballot access disputes, the direction of national Democrats, and the future of conservative politics in Alabama. The discussion also explored economic development, tax reform, and Hooper's work using artificial intelligence to combat fraud in public programs.
New GOP Chairman Scott Stadthagen and Internal Party Tensions
Hooper opened by discussing the Alabama Republican Party's recent election of Chairman Scott StaHagen, describing him as a successful homebuilder with a strong conservative voting record in the Legislature. He praised Hagen's pro‑life stance, pro‑business approach, and close connection to grassroots Republicans.
Moseley and Peeks raised concerns about the party's steering committee and its interpretation of a "six‑year rule" used to challenge candidate eligibility. They questioned whether the committee had overstepped its authority by acting independently of the full state executive committee. Hooper agreed that the chairman is elected by the entire state committee-not the smaller steering committee-and expressed support for efforts to restore a more open, Reagan‑era approach to candidate access.
Residency Challenges Against Tuberville and Walls
The hosts and Hooper addressed recent ballot challenges involving U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville and Lt. Governor candidate John Wahl. Hooper dismissed the residency objections as weak, especially in Tuberville's case, noting his popularity and clear legal standing as an Alabama resident. He predicted that the challenges would not meaningfully affect the race.
The Sore Loser Law and Party Discipline
Hooper also discussed Alabama's "sore loser law," explaining that its purpose is to ensure Republican officeholders support the party platform rather than using personal disagreements to justify breaking ranks. He framed the law as a tool for maintaining ideological consistency and preventing candidates from switching affiliations after losing primaries.
Democratic Party Direction and Alabama's Political Landscape
Turning to the opposition, Hooper argued that the national Democratic Party has moved sharply leftward. He criticized recent Democratic messaging on military issues and expressed doubt that Democrats could regain significant ground in Alabama.
He mentioned Doug Jones and Ron Sparks as potential statewide Democratic candidates but suggested that neither would overcome the state's strong conservative leanings.
Trump, Tuberville, and 2026 Momentum
Hooper reaffirmed his long‑standing support for President Donald J. Trump, noting that Alabama remains one of Trump's strongest states. He recalled passing a 2019 resolution declaring Trump one of the most effective presidents in U.S. history-something he still stands by.
He predicted that Alabama's 2026 Republican ticket would be anchored by Trump and Tuberville, arguing that both men's conservative credentials and popularity would boost down‑ballot candidates. He also praised Governor Kay Ivey's (R) record on job creation and pro‑life legislation, while suggesting Tuberville brings added energy to the campaign trail.
Tax Reform, Economic Growth, and Workforce Needs
The conversation shifted to Alabama's economic trajectory. Hooper and the hosts discussed lowering state income and grocery taxes to attract more residents and businesses, especially as Huntsville and North Alabama continue to grow.
They highlighted major developments including a new defense plant in Muscle Shoals and the expansion of Space Command in Huntsville. Hooper emphasized the need for workforce training to meet the demands of these new industries.
AI Tools to Combat Fraud in Public Programs
Hooper described his work with an AI‑driven platform designed to detect waste, fraud, and abuse in insurance and public assistance programs. He said Coach Tuberville plans to apply similar technology within the Department of Human Resources and Medicaid if elected governor, aiming to reduce improper payments and improve program integrity.
College Football Regulation and Trump's Meeting with Coaches
Hooper referenced legislation from Tuberville and former Senator Joe Manchin addressing regulatory issues in college football. He expressed optimism about President Trump's recent meeting with major college football leaders and suggested that legendary Alabama coach Nick Saban could play a key role in shaping reforms.
Middle East Strategy and Global Affairs
The interview closed with a discussion of Trump's foreign policy, particularly his handling of Iran and Venezuela. Moseley and Peeks praised recent military operations targeting Iranian leadership and infrastructure, calling them precise and effective. They also speculated about potential regime change in Cuba and the role Israel might play in future regional dynamics.
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