Carrollton's Jodie Minor Announces Democratic Bid For Senate District 21

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Former Pickens County basketball standout and decorated U.S. Army veteran Jodie Minor has announced his Democratic bid for the Senate District 21 seat in the 2026 election.

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Senate District 21 covers large parts of Pickens and Tuscaloosa counties.

Minor, a native of the Big Creek community in Carrollton, was named Pickens County Player of the Year, earned All-State honors and secured a basketball scholarship to the University of West Alabama, which he credits with instilling in him a lifelong love of learning.

As Patch previously reported, the Senate District 21 incumbent — Republican Sen. Gerald Allen — announced his reelection bid on Wednesday.

In terms of his platform, Minor seeks to spur economic opportunity and reduces crime, guarantee emergency room care for every zip code and deliver first-class services for veterans.

His campaign website states: "Jodie’s mission is clear: rebuild trust in our democracy by expanding economic opportunity for everyday Americans, fighting to restore emergency room care access for Pickens County residents, fearlessly championing Veterans’ rights, and ensuring that every District 21 resident has a fair shot at their American Dream."

Minor holds five college degrees, is a decorated U.S. Army veteran, and has served in a variety of different military organizations. These roles range from recruiting and special operations to representing the Army on Capitol Hill.

Minor's educational background includes an Associate of Applied Science in Intelligence Operations from Cochise College, a Bachelor of Business from Athens State University, a Master of Business Administration from Alabama A&M University, a Master of Legislative Affairs from George Washington University and a Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University.

As a federal employee, he most recently served on the National Security Council at the White House under both the presidential administrations of Joe Biden and Donald Trump

Minor is also licensed to preach the Gospel and is the father of four children: Jasmine, Taryn, Trey, and Maya.

The general election is set for Nov. 3, 2026.

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