Rep. James Lomax Highlights Legislative Wins, Huntsville's Growth, and 2026 Priorities on The BCS: State of Alabama Podcast

March 11, 2026 - MONTGOMERY, Ala. - State Representative James Lomax (R–Huntsville) joined Brandon Moseley and Christopher Peeks on The BCS: State of Alabama Podcast for a detailed conversation about his re‑election campaign, his new role as Majority Whip, and the policy challenges facing one of Alabama's fastest‑growing regions. Over the course of the interview, Lomax discussed legislative accomplishments, energy policy debates, Huntsville's infrastructure needs, and the broader direction of the state's conservative agenda.

Campaign Outlook and Contrast With His Opponent

Lomax opened the interview by reflecting on his re‑election campaign and the support he has received from constituents in Huntsville. He emphasized his roots in the community and his experience working on previous political campaigns.

He framed his opponent's entry into the race as an opportunity to draw a clear contrast between "focusing on the future versus the past," noting that he feels confident in the message he is bringing to voters.

Responsibilities as the New Majority Whip

Lomax recently assumed the role of Majority Whip in the Alabama House, a position he described as central to advancing the Republican caucus's legislative priorities. His responsibilities include:

- Counting votes and gauging caucus support

- Helping move bills through committees

- Securing co‑sponsors for key legislation

- Navigating the slow and sometimes complex legislative process

While Peeks asked for his assessment of the session so far, Lomax did not offer a detailed evaluation in the transcript.

Legislative Achievements and Conservative Policy Push

Lomax highlighted several major bills passed during the session, including:

- A ban on foreign nationals contributing to political campaigns, closing loopholes in existing law

- Reforms to ballot referendum procedures

- Removal of DEI programs from college campuses

- Measures addressing inappropriate classroom materials

- Passage of HB 511, which he said reflects a return to conservative principles and a focus on a "moral and just society"

He also reiterated his opposition to a Public Service Commission (PSC) bill that would alter how commissioners are selected, arguing that voters should retain influence over energy regulation-even in TVA‑served areas.

Energy Policy, TVA, and Nuclear Development

Energy policy was a major theme of the conversation. Lomax and the hosts discussed:

- A proposal to appoint four PSC members and create a Secretary of Energy, which Lomax warned could inject political influence into energy decisions

- TVA's favorable power rates but structural challenges, including the fact that much of Alabama‑generated power is exported to other states

- The high salary of TVA's CEO, the highest‑paid federal employee

- The halted nuclear plant project in Jackson County, which Lomax said failed due to regulatory hurdles and structural issues with the concrete reactors

He noted that the Trump administration has shown interest in reducing red tape for nuclear projects and mentioned the possibility of small modular reactors being tested at Redstone Arsenal in the future.

Huntsville's Rapid Growth and Infrastructure Demands

Lomax described Huntsville as a booming economic engine, citing major investments such as Eli Lilly's $6 billion expansion, GE Aerospace growth, and Hadrian's new defense manufacturing facility.

He stressed that while Huntsville excels at attracting jobs and talent, the region faces significant infrastructure challenges. Lomax argued that:

- Local governments must collaborate more closely

- Huntsville needs a fair share of state funding to keep pace with growth

- Infrastructure improvements will be a top priority in the next administration

He committed to advocating for North Alabama's needs as the region continues to expand.

Closed Primaries, Party Alignment, and Election Integrity

The conversation turned to proposed legislation on closed primaries. Lomax explained that the bill would:

- Allow unaffiliated voters to choose a party ballot in the primary

- Require voters to register with that party 60 days before future elections

He expressed support for the measure, saying it ensures voters align with the party whose ballot they choose.

Personal Motivation and Future Ambitions

Lomax spoke about his personal reasons for serving in public office, emphasizing his desire to build a positive future for his children and his district.

When asked about long‑term political ambitions, he clarified that he is focused on his current role and has no immediate plans to seek higher office.