Kay Ivey. That’s the answer to who is Alabama governor right now. But honestly, just knowing her name doesn’t really tell you the whole story of what's happening in Montgomery.
It’s January 2026. Kay Ivey is currently wrapping up what she’s called her "final lap." She just delivered her ninth State of the State address a few days ago, on January 13. It was a big moment. She’s the 54th governor of the state and has been in the seat since 2017.
She didn't get there through a typical election at first. She was Lieutenant Governor when the previous guy, Robert Bentley, had to resign because of some pretty messy legal and ethical issues. Ivey stepped in to "steady the ship," as she put it. People liked that. She won a full term in 2018 and then basically cruised to reelection in 2022.
Who is Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and why is she making news now?
If you're asking about her today, it's probably because she’s entering her last year in office. Alabama has term limits. You can only serve two consecutive terms as governor. Since she was elected in 2018 and 2022, she can’t run again this year.
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The 2026 election is already heating up. While Ivey is still the boss, names like Tommy Tuberville are already being tossed around for the next cycle. It’s kinda a "lame duck" period, but Ivey isn't acting like one. Just last week, she signed Executive Order 742. This was a move to push the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit Program. Basically, she’s doubling down on school choice before she leaves.
A quick look at her track record
Kay Ivey is a Republican through and through, though she actually started her career as a Democrat decades ago. She switched parties in 2002. Since then, she’s been a staple in Alabama politics.
- Firsts: She was the first Republican woman elected State Treasurer. Then the first Republican woman Lieutenant Governor. Now she’s the longest-serving female governor in the U.S.
- The "Ivey Cake" Politics: She’s known for a folksy, grandmotherly vibe—often called "Maw Maw" by supporters—but she’s a tough negotiator.
- Big Wins: She’s pointed to record-low unemployment and massive capital investments in the state. We're talking over $69 billion in new investments during her tenure.
- Controversies: It hasn't been all roses. Her support for Roy Moore in the 2017 Senate race despite the allegations against him drew a lot of fire. She’s also been a hardliner on abortion and LGBTQ+ issues, which has made her a hero to some and a villain to others.
What is she focusing on in 2026?
In her recent State of the State address, Ivey laid out a pretty specific roadmap for her final months. She’s not just sitting around waiting for January 2027 to roll around.
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She's pushing hard for rural healthcare. Alabama’s rural hospitals have been struggling for years. She announced that the state secured over $203 million for a Rural Health Transformation Program. It’s a five-year plan, so she won't see the end of it, but she's the one who got it approved by the feds.
Then there's the "Child Predator Death Penalty Act." She's calling on the legislature to pass this fast. It’s exactly what it sounds like—increasing the stakes for the most horrific crimes against kids. It's a high-profile, high-emotion policy that fits her "tough on crime" brand perfectly.
The Education Push
Education has always been her "thing." She started as a teacher, after all. Right now, she’s obsessed with school choice and literacy. She wants Alabama students to be able to read by the end of third grade—no excuses. If they can't, they might not move on. It’s a controversial policy called the Alabama Literacy Act, but she’s stuck to her guns on it.
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The 2026 Election: What happens next?
Since Ivey is out after this year, the field is wide open. The primary is set for May 19, 2026.
Honestly, the Republican primary is where the real race is. Alabama is a deep red state. Whoever wins the GOP nod is almost guaranteed to be the next governor. Senator Tommy Tuberville has already declared he's running. That’s a massive name that changes the whole dynamic.
On the Democrat side, former Senator Doug Jones is a name that keeps coming up, along with Yolanda Flowers, who ran against Ivey last time. But they have a steep hill to climb. A Democrat hasn't won the governor’s mansion in Alabama since 1998.
Actionable steps to stay informed
If you live in Alabama or just care about Southern politics, here is how you can stay on top of the transition from the Ivey era to whatever comes next:
- Watch the Legislative Session: The 2026 regular session is happening right now. This is when Ivey will try to pass her final legacy projects.
- Check Voter Registration: The primary is in May. If you aren't registered by early May, you're sitting this one out. You can check your status on the Alabama Secretary of State’s website.
- Follow the Money: Keep an eye on the campaign finance reports for the 2026 gubernatorial candidates. It’s going to be the most expensive race in state history.
- Monitor the Rural Health Rollout: If you live in a rural county, look for how that $203 million is being allocated. It could determine if your local clinic stays open or shuts down.
Kay Ivey is still the one in charge, and she’s making sure everyone knows it. Whether you love her conservative "common sense" approach or disagree with her policies, there's no denying she’s left a massive footprint on Alabama.