At a news conference in Montgomery, Democratic candidates for governor and lieutenant governor – Doug Jones and Phillip Ensler – announced a proposal to restructure Alabama’s lieutenant‑governor’s office. The plan would require a constitutional amendment that moves the position from the legislative branch into the executive branch, making the lieutenant governor a member of the governor’s cabinet or an advisory official.

Rationale behind the change

Jones argued that the current arrangement, in which the lieutenant governor sits in the Senate and can pursue a separate agenda, creates inefficiency and weakens accountability. “I think government works better when you have an executive branch that is working together, not one office holder with a foot in the legislative branch and another agenda,” he said.

Ensler echoed the sentiment, saying the lieutenant governor should do more than attend receptions and meet lobbyists. “The lieutenant governor can get to work and help carry out things that are going to help people in Alabama,” he added.

Comparison to other states

The proposal points to the fact that 28 other states already place the lieutenant governor within the executive branch, allowing for a more coordinated administration. By aligning the role with the governor’s team, the Democratic ticket says Alabama could achieve the same level of coordination and policy implementation seen elsewhere.

Political context

The announcement comes as the 2026 gubernatorial race intensifies. Jones will face Republican nominee Tommy Tuberville, while Ensler will run against Republican John Wahl for lieutenant governor in the November 3 general election. Both parties are positioning their candidates on issues of government efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and family‑centered policies.

Constitutional amendment process

Changing the state constitution in Alabama requires approval by two‑thirds of both legislative chambers followed by a statewide referendum. If elected, Jones and Ensler say they will work with lawmakers from both parties to secure the necessary votes and then present the amendment to voters.

Potential impact

Supporters of the plan argue that integrating the lieutenant governor into the executive branch could streamline decision‑making, reduce duplication of effort, and provide clearer lines of accountability. Critics, however, warn that the move could concentrate power in the governor’s office and diminish the legislative branch’s ability to check the executive.

Regardless of the debate, the proposal highlights a broader conversation in Alabama about how best to structure state government to serve families, uphold constitutional principles, and promote responsible stewardship of public resources.

Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.