Bradley Byrne announces he will not run for governor

Posted

At a North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce event in Bay Minette this morning, Congressman Bradley Byrne announced he would not be running for governor of Alabama next year.

“I have made the decision I will not run for governor next year,” Byrne said. “After speaking with Gov. Ivey, I think it’s important for the state that we have continuity and stability.”

Byrne said he had been approached by multiple people across the state to possibly run for governor and told them he would be making the decision on whether or not to run before the end of the summer.

“With Labor Day coming up next week, I would say we’re there now,” Byrne said.

With that said, Byrne felt it was not the right time for him to run for governor.

“I’d love to be the governor of Alabama, but I don’t think that’s the best decision for me or for the state right now,” Byrne said.

Byrne said there were a number of statewide elections next year that would have a huge impact on the state.

Byrne did leave the door open somewhat saying if Ivey chose not to run, his decision might change.

“If for some reason, Gov. Ivey changes her mind, I might change my mind,” Byrne said. “I don’t believe Gov. Ivey is going to change her mind, though.”

Byrne said he would be seeking a third term to represent Alabama’s First Congressional District in Congress, but said he wanted to “make sure I’m not absolutely closing the door and locking it tight” about a possible run for governor.

Byrne said he did have concerns about several statewide issues, including a slower growth for Alabama than other parts of the nation.

“We have been growing, but not nearly like the national average,” Byrne said. “People in Washington tell me we’re right on the cusp of losing a congressional seat. That’s a sign we have not made the progress in this state we need to make.”

Byrne also received the Spirit of Enterprise award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce during the event.