In a recent closed-door vote, Alabama Senate’s Republican Caucus elected Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, as their new president pro tempore. Gudger, 49, will be replacing Greg Reed, R-Jasper, who is leaving the Senate to serve as Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey’s senior advisor for workforce transformation.
Gudger, who has been in the Senate since 2018 and previously chaired the Senate Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development Committee, represents Cullman, Marion, and Winston counties. He will officially take over as president pro tempore on February 4, 2025, the first day of the 2025 legislative session.
Despite suffering injuries from a jet ski accident this summer, including broken ribs and a chipped vertebra, Gudger has recovered well, according to his family members. The announcement of Gudger’s election has been met with support and well-wishes from his colleagues and constituents.
The role of president pro tempore is an important one, as it involves presiding over the Senate in the absence of the lieutenant governor and ensuring that legislative proceedings run smoothly. With his experience and leadership qualities, Gudger is expected to excel in this new position and contribute positively to the state’s legislative process.
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