Madison County Sees Record Election Turnout!
Madison County, get ready to celebrate! Last week, our county experienced a surge of democracy like never before. With a fantastic voter turnout of nearly 60%, the excitement was palpable as a whopping 197,251 residents cast their ballots in the November 5 general election. Isn’t it amazing to see so many people participating in our local elections?
Judge Barger Celebrates a Job Well Done
Madison County Probate Judge Frank Barger was all smiles as he shared the news, stating, “This was unprecedented for us and overwhelmed many locations, creating wait times.” But don’t worry, folks! He assured us that they will review these challenges and improve before the next election cycle. Hats off to our hard-working election workers who kept it all running amidst the chaos!
Presidential Buzz and Local Races
While the buzz was undeniably fueled by the Presidential election this cycle, there were also some hotly contested local races that had folks talking. It was clear from the high turnout that Madison County voters were eager to make their voices heard!
Steve Haraway’s Triumph
First up, Steve Haraway secured re-election to the Madison County Commission District 2 seat! Having first been elected in 2012 and previously serving as a Madison City Councilman, Haraway surely knew how to work the crowd. He clinched victory with over 69% of the vote, defeating Libertarian candidate Isaac Crow. Crow, a local small business owner, felt strongly that uncontested races do a disservice to citizens and wanted to give voters a solid choice.
New Leadership for the Commission
On the leadership front, Mac McCutcheon will be taking the reins as Madison County Commission Chairman! Recently appointed by Governor Kay Ivey, he’s got a wealth of experience from his time spent in the Alabama Legislature. McCutcheon plans to shift focus to expanding our vital road and water infrastructure in the county’s newly developed areas. With 53.64% of the vote, he beat out challenger Guy Sotomayor, who proudly highlighted his Air Force background during his campaign. Sotomayor snagged a commendable 40.16%, while the Libertarian candidate, Alan Barksdale, brought in just over 6%.
Other Notable Results
Madison County really showed love for familiar faces, as Phil Vandiver was re-elected as District 4 Commissioner with nearly 75% of the votes. Having served for 12 years, he knows there’s still plenty of work to do in enhancing roads and community centers in his district.
And let’s not forget about Judge Barger! He also celebrated his re-election, receiving about 74% of the votes. With a career kicking off in the probate office back in 2011, Barger has been a champion for efficiency—pioneering the use of poll pads to help speed up the voter check-in process!
More Elections, More Winners!
In other contested races, voters re-elected Tom Brandon as Madison County District 1 Commissioner, Phil Riddick as District 5 Commissioner, and Violet Edwards taking charge as District 6 Commissioner. What a slate of talented individuals stepping forward to represent our community!
Stay Informed!
For those eager to get the full scoop on the election results, don’t miss checking out www.madisoncountyvotesal.gov.
So, here’s to a thriving democracy and a commitment to our community! Madison County, your voices were heard loud and clear!
