After over 35 years with the Associated Press, reporter Phillip Rawls, a respected expert on Alabama state politics, has announced his retirement. Rawls, who is 63 years old, has had a distinguished career covering seven Alabama governors and 35 regular sessions of the Legislature.
During his tenure, Rawls gained a reputation for fairness and accuracy in his reporting. He covered a wide range of topics related to state government, from elections to policy debates, corruption to bribery trials. He also played a crucial role in reporting on general news stories, such as the 2013 hostage standoff and the prosecution of a former state trooper for a civil rights killing.
Jim Van Anglen, AP Deep South Editor, praised Rawls for his dedication and professionalism throughout his career. Rawls has not only covered major stories and scored numerous scoops, but he has also served as a mentor to younger journalists in the Statehouse press corps.
Rawls, a native of south Alabama, received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from the University of Alabama before beginning his career with the AP in 1979. His retirement will take effect later this month.
In recognition of his contributions to journalism, Rawls was honored with the Distinguished Mass Media Achievement Award presented by Auburn University in 2013. He is remembered not only for his vast knowledge of Alabama politics but also for his dignity and grace in his reporting.
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