U.S. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) visited Dothan this week to campaign for State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) in the upcoming election for Alabama’s second congressional district (CD2). Scalise's appearance, which included several Wiregrass law enforcement officials, underscored public safety as a key issue in the race, which could potentially shift the state's congressional map to a 6-1 Republican majority from its previous 5-2 configuration.
Marques secured the Republican nomination for CD2 in August following a special primary election. This election occurred after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowed Alabama to use previously barred congressional maps. Marques will now face incumbent U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures (D-Montgomery). During his visit to Dothan, Scalise emphasized the clear differences between the two candidates, according to statements made at the event. Scalise described Marques as a commonsense conservative who supports law enforcement, contrasting his approach with that of Figures.
Scalise specifically addressed Figures’ record in Washington, particularly regarding issues of crime and illegal immigration. Scalise stated that Figures has a “horrible record in Washington,” asserting that Figures has voted for open borders. Scalise also claimed that Figures has supported policies allowing individuals, who are in the country illegally and commit violent crimes against Alabamians, to be released back into communities instead of being removed. Scalise concluded that it is unacceptable to have a representative in Congress who supports such policies.
Marques expressed gratitude for Scalise’s presence in Alabama and, in turn, criticized Figures’ political stances, referring to them as socialist policies. Marques characterized the congressional contest as a choice between differing approaches. He affirmed his commitment to strongly supporting law enforcement and ensuring violent criminals are held accountable. Marques further alleged that Figures contributed to “soft-on-crime” policies from the Biden Department of Justice, which he claimed resulted in the release of dangerous individuals back onto the streets. Marques also contended that Figures is backed by groups that advocate for defunding the police, abolishing prisons, and allowing cartels to use an open border to bring fentanyl into communities. He asserted that these policies are dangerous. Marques stated that if elected to Congress, he would prioritize the safety of Alabamians. He also said his opponent prioritizes the safety of Nancy Pelosi’s stock portfolio.
