Alabama Governor, Tuscaloosa Mayor Partner For Bipartisan 'Disagree Better Initiative'

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Republican Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and Democratic Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox have partnered for the National Governors Association (NGA)’s Disagree Better initiative in the hopes of promoting civility this election season.

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The former gubernatorial opponents, who faced off in the 2018 General Election, touted their working relationship at present and how the pair have come together on issues such as rebuilding the state’s infrastructure, supporting automotive manufacturing and improving education in Alabama.

“Alabamians are some of the best people in the world, and that is because we treat everyone with respect, even if that person votes differently than us or cheers for the rival team,” Ivey said. “Even though Mayor Maddox and I once opposed each other on the ballot and maybe do not agree on every single issue out there, we do agree that the people of Alabama deserve our hardest work – and that means coming together to ensure our Sweet Home is the best place to live, work and raise a family for generations to come.”

Maddox also said when considering serious issues, Alabamians are not looking for "red or blue decisions."

"They just want the best decision for themselves, their children and their grandchildren,” Maddox said. “To do this, we must all work to disagree better. Even when it’s not easy, respecting each other’s perspectives, understanding unique life experiences and working to find the truth will ensure that what unites us is infinitely stronger than what divides us. Governor Ivey has achieved so much for our state and a great deal of her success is grounded in her ability to listen and build consensus.”

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