Alabama voters will choose between Republican nominee Corey Hill, the mayor of Douglas in Marshall County, and Democratic nominee Ron Sparks, who previously held the office from 2003 to 2011, in the Nov. 3 general election for Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries. The race highlights different approaches to supporting the state's agricultural sector and managing the department.
Corey Hill became the Republican nominee after winning a June 16 runoff election. Ron Sparks did not face a Democratic opponent in his bid for the nomination.
Sparks stated in an interview Wednesday that he is seeking the seat because "farmers and people are struggling right now." He cited high diesel fuel and fertilizer prices, and a belief that farmers are "going broke." Sparks also claimed the Department of Agriculture has been "basically destroyed in the last few years." He expressed a desire to restore the department to its condition during his previous tenure, asserting that no one worked harder or built a better department than he did. During his earlier term, he noted efforts to address price gouging at gas pumps following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. His priorities for the department include removing the 1.5% sales tax on farm equipment and reinstating state employees to serve as gas inspectors.
Hill, in an interview on Wednesday, countered Sparks' view, stating that the department cannot be run as it was when Sparks was in office. Hill pointed to significant changes over the past 15 to 20 years, including a "totally different Democratic Party," different challenges, a changed administration, the impact of COVID-19, and a different economy. He emphasized the need for a new mindset to manage the department today. Among Hill’s priorities are eliminating the tax on farm equipment, a goal he shares with Sparks, and implementing a program to put Alabama-produced food into schools. He stated his intention to make it easier for schools to buy food from Alabama farmers to feed Alabama children.
Former Alabama Attorney General Troy King, a Republican, endorsed Ron Sparks last week, as reported by Al.com. Sparks commented that he was not surprised by the endorsement, expressing respect for King and a shared belief in ending political "tribalism" and division.
When appealing to voters, Sparks highlighted his prior experience and achievements in the department. He mentioned receiving awards from "every ag organization in the state," including the Alabama Farmers Association (ALFA), cattlemen, catfish, and veterinarian groups. He also recalled winning 62 out of 67 counties the last time he ran for the position, stating he feels strong momentum in the current race. Sparks assured voters that no one would work harder for Alabama farmers and consumers than he would.
Hill presented his farming background as a key qualification for the role. He explained that his family has been in the grocery store business for many generations, providing him with extensive knowledge of food safety, managing recalls, and preventing food-related issues. Hill noted the direct impact these events have on retailers, even without fault, and emphasized the importance of safe food handling.
According to campaign finance reports updated as of Wednesday afternoon, Corey Hill has raised $581,400 and spent $553,500. Ron Sparks has raised $153,100 and spent $57,700 for his campaign. The election next month will decide who leads the state's Department of Agriculture and Industries.
