Trump-backed Candidate Wins Alabama GOP Senate Runoff

A Republican U.S. representative won the Alabama GOP primary runoff Tuesday for the state's open Senate seat, defeating former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson.

The representative secured victory with 58% of the vote after media organizations called the race with 77% of precincts reporting. The win positions the nominee to face the Democratic candidate in November. The runoff followed an earlier primary in which no candidate reached a majority, triggering Alabama's requirement for a top-two contest.

The winner currently serves as U.S. representative from Alabama's 2nd congressional district. Hudson entered politics as a newcomer after working as a Navy SEAL sniper. The representative's campaign emphasized a legislative record in the House. Hudson presented himself as an outsider focused on challenging establishment figures.

Tuesday's runoff came after an initial primary left both candidates without a majority of support. Alabama Republican rules require a runoff between the top two vote-getters when no one clears 50 percent.

“The president endorsed [the winner] last month, praising the Republican as a 'totally reliable MAGA warrior,' as [the outgoing senator] runs for governor." The outgoing senator is seeking the Republican nomination for governor to succeed the current governor, who faces term limits.”