Governor Bentley Issues Proclamation Formally Calling Special Election for Alabama’s 1st Congressional District

MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Saturday issued a proclamation formally calling a special election for Alabama’s 1st Congressional District.

The District 1 seat was officially vacated at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, August 2, upon the resignation of Jo Bonner, who accepted a new position with the University of Alabama.  With the seat officially vacated, Governor Bentley issued the official election proclamation on Saturday.

The election timeline in Governor Bentley’s proclamation follows an expedited schedule.  The Governor’s goal is to have Congressional representation for the people of District 1 as quickly as possible while protecting the rights of military and overseas voters.

The timeline was approved on Friday, July 26, by U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson of the Middle District of Alabama.  According to the timeline:

  • The special primary election will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 2013
  • The special primary runoff, if needed, will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2013
  • If a special primary runoff is not required, the special general election will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2013
  • If a special primary runoff is required, the special general election will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2013.

“My goal is to have a representative in place for the people of District 1 as soon as possible,” Governor Bentley said.  “This schedule will allow the district to have representation when Congress convenes next January.  The timeline also protects the rights of military and overseas voters to cast absentee ballots for the candidate of their choice.”

Candidates qualifying with major political parties must do so by Monday, August 5, 2013, at 5:00 p.m.  The two major political parties are to certify their qualified candidates to the Secretary of State as soon as possible after the qualification deadline but by no later than 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 6, 2013.

All third-party candidates, independent candidates, and/or minor party candidates seeking ballot access are advised that their deadline for filing the appropriate notification, petitions or supporting paperwork with the Secretary of State is Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at 5:00 p.m.

Governor Bentley’s special election proclamation is attached.

View the Special Election Proclamation

Provided by the Office of the Governor of Alabama | governor.alabama.gov