The sun still shines bright over Alabama’s booming beaches, but this summer, it’s more than the sand and the Gulf waters that are heating up. For the first time in nearly two decades, the mayors of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are facing serious election challenges at the same time in these economically vital coastal cities.

In the upcoming municipal elections, community members will elect their next mayor, council members and other local representatives.

Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen is touting new security measures. That includes a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security and adding an invisible emblem to election ballots. “Full stop.

Sorrell was elected auditor in 2022 after serving one term in the Alabama House of Representatives, representing Colbert County. Sorrell said he started his first company at age 16 and owns four Alabama-based businesses that employ about 20 people. Sorrell’s decision not to seek a second term as auditor also created an open seat.

Prattville has a crowded field for the mayor and six of the seven city council seats are contested. Bill Gillespie Jr. (I) There will be one contested election in Millbrook in the city council races. Mayor Al Kelley is running for his seventh consecutive term and is unopposed.

Alabama introduces an invisible emblem to enhance ballot security by 2026, aiming to protect election integrity with changing designs each cycle.