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Alabama’s June 16 Runoff Election: What Voters Need to Know
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Alabama voters will return to the polls on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, for primary runoff elections that will decide several key races ahead of the November general election. These runoff elections are an important part of Alabama’s election process—and they can have a major impact on who ultimately represents you at the state and federal level.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why Is There a Runoff Election?
In Alabama, a candidate must receive more than 50% of the vote in a primary election to secure their party’s nomination. When no candidate reaches that majority threshold, the top two vote-getters advance to a runoff.
That’s exactly what happened in several races during the May 19 primary. As a result, voters will now choose between the final two candidates in each contest.
Key Statewide Races on the Runoff Ballot
Several high-profile statewide offices will be decided in the June 16 runoff. Among the most notable:
U.S. Senate (Republican and Democratic runoffs)
- Republican runoff: Barry Moore and Jared Hudson
- Democratic runoff: Everett Wess and Dakarai Larriett
This race will determine each party’s nominee for a U.S. Senate seat that will be on the ballot in November.
Lieutenant Governor (Republican runoff)
- John Wahl vs. Wes Allen
Attorney General (Republican runoff)
- Katherine Robertson vs. Jay Mitchell
Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries (Republican runoff)
- Corey Hill vs. Christina Woerner McInnis
Public Service Commission (Place 2 – Republican runoff)
- Candidates include Jim Zeigler and Chris Beeker
Additional Local Races
In addition to statewide contests, numerous local races are also headed to runoff elections. These may include:
- State legislative seats
- Judicial races
- County offices such as sheriff or commission seats
- School board elections [waka.com]
Because local races vary by county, voters are encouraged to review their personalized ballot ahead of Election Day.
Who Can Vote in the Runoff?
Alabama uses an open primary system, but there are important rules for runoff elections:
- If you voted in the May 19 primary, you must vote in the same party’s runoff.
- If you did not vote in the primary, you may choose either party’s runoff ballot.
This means every eligible voter still has an opportunity to participate -- especially those who may have missed the first round of voting.
Why This Election Matters
Runoff elections often have lower turnout, but they play a critical role in shaping the ballot for November. In many cases, especially in primaries, the runoff winner becomes the likely officeholder.
For older Alabamians and caregivers, these elections directly affect issues such as:
- Medicare
- Prescription drug affordability
- Social Security and retirement security
- Utility costs and consumer protection
Your vote helps ensure that your voice is heard on issues that matter most to you and your family.
Make Your Plan to Vote
Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 16, and Alabama voters must bring a valid photo ID to vote.
To:
- Confirm your voter registration
- Find your polling place
- Review your sample ballot
- Learn more about absentee voting
Visit the official Alabama Secretary of State website:
👉 https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes
Make a plan. Get informed. And most importantly—vote.
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