Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate Announces Bid for Lieutenant Governor in 2026
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Rick Pate, the Alabama Department of Agriculture Commissioner, formally announced his candidacy for lieutenant governor in the 2026 election. Aligning himself with the "America First agenda," Pate expressed his commitment to supporting President Donald Trump and U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville should he secure his gubernatorial bid.
“Having spent my life working the land and serving my community, I aim to bring hands-on leadership to the role,” Pate stated. He emphasized his goal to ensure Alabama remains a thriving environment for families, agriculture, and conservative values.
Pate, a Republican, has held the state’s agricultural commissioner position since 2018 and previously served as the mayor of Lowndesboro for 14 years. A 1978 Auburn University graduate, he also founded and ran Pate Landscape Company for nearly four decades.
His announcement comes as the current Lieutenant Governor, Will Ainsworth, pivots to the private sector after contemplating a gubernatorial run, likely influenced by Tuberville’s anticipated entry into the race.
Pate will compete against Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen in the Republican primary, who declared his campaign earlier this year. Pate noted that he consulted with Allen before making his decision to run.
During his tenure as agriculture commissioner, Pate implemented initiatives like “Sweet Grown Alabama” to promote local products and expanded the Farm-to-School program. He also led efforts to enhance public appreciation for farmers through campaigns like “Thank a Farmer.” Pate emphasized the importance of supporting farmers, stating, “Food security is national security.”
As he is term-limited, Pate cannot seek re-election as AG commissioner. The primary elections are set for May 19, 2026, followed by the general election on November 3, 2026.
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