Caroline Vincent, al.com Alabama Congressional Race
State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) announced his candidacy for Alabama's 1st congressional district, immediately receiving maximum PAC support from U.S. Sen. Katie Britt. John Sharp reports that Marques will face former Rep. Jerry Carl and Army veteran Joshua McKee in the 2026 Republican primary for the seat currently held by Rep. Barry Moore, who is pursuing Tommy Tuberville's Senate seat.
Environmental Monitoring
Residents near Alabama's ABC Coke plant in Tarrant are fighting against Trump Administration efforts to delay EPA air pollution monitoring rules. A new report shows the plant's benzene levels were four times higher than health thresholds, with multiple Clean Air Act violations and $529,800 in penalties over five years. The Environmental Integrity Project report found similar dangerous pollution levels at steel plants across six states, prompting a lawsuit to challenge the regulatory rollbacks. A coke plant heats coal at high temperatures to remove impurities and produces coke, used as fuel in the steelmaking process to reduce iron ore to iron.
Alabama lawmaker stepping down
Rep. Jim Hill, a former judge who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, won't seek reelection in 2026. The 75-year-old Republican cited physical demands and wanting to spend time with grandchildren as reasons for stepping down after three terms. Known for ensuring fair hearings and legal soundness above partisan politics, Hill has been described as an effective "umpire and referee" over contentious debates, reports Mike Cason. Hill plans to continue his law practice in St. Clair County. And he has one more year to serve as judiciary chairman. The Legislature will convene for its next regular session in January.
Cracker Barrel rebrand
Conservatives are criticizing Cracker Barrel's new logo and restaurant redesign, with Donald Trump Jr. and several right-wing influencers calling the changes "woke" and "generic." CEO Julie Masino defended the rebrand on "Good Morning America," saying feedback has been "overwhelmingly positive" from both customers and staff, reports AL.com. The revamped logo comes as Cracker Barrel is in the midst of remodeling its restaurants and stores, adding in booths and brighter lighting to its decor.
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