Enterprise businessman has eyes set on Alabama governorship
ENTERPRISE, Ala (WDHN) — An Enterprise businessman has thrown his hat in the ring for the highest office in the state.
Chad Chig Martin is running for Alabama governor on the democratic ticket.
This is Martin's second time running. His first was in 2022.
'I just feel like I have the business experience to do this, and I see a changing of the guard with Governor Ivey leaving here in the state, and I think I can offer a more energetic and positive direction,' Martin said.
Currently, Martin is the owner of Honeysuckle Hemp in Dothan and has experience in aerospace and real estate. Leaning on his experience to focus on economic development for the state if he gets a chance to become governor.
'We've got areas that have been overlooked for years, and people are suffering in those areas. I want to put infrastructure in those areas, and some other things I want are to make sure every child has affordable health care,' Martin said.
He says he also wants to restore 'community pride' in public schools as well as crack the code on a contentious legislative issue.
'We need to step up and get a lottery, it's not a moral compass thing, it's the fact 46 out of 50 states have it, and we are building schools in other states with that money,' he said.
If Martin can get through the primary, he could face political heavyweight Senator Tommy Tuberville, who has previously expressed opposition to the lottery.
Tuberville announced his gubernatorial run this week. The football coach-turned-politician said he would work to improve education and bring manufacturing to the Yellowhammer State, while attempting to stop illegal immigration.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville running for governor of Alabama
It would be an uphill battle for Martin, who says his first step is getting past the primary, which he claims is controlled by the black belt region — he would have to garner over 70,000 votes.
'I'm trying to reach out to Black voters, work with community leaders, and let them know they have a seat at the table,' said Martin.
Martin says his campaign this year is off to a better start than last time, as he has a campaign manager this time, more funding, and he will soon participate in some debates around the state.
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