House District 10 candidates prepare for Alabama special election

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Republican Teddy Powell and Democrat Marilyn Lands will appear on the Alabama House District 10 special election ballot on March 26.

The vote is set to replace Rep. David Cole following his voter fraud arrest and resignation from the District 10 seat.

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Powell and Lands have deep ties to the Huntsville and Madison communities, and both say their experience will bring a valuable perspective to the state legislature.

Lands, a lifelong resident of Huntsville, has worked in business administration. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor who has previously collaborated to pass mental health legislation supporting children in the state.

Lands said she is ready to support education and economic development opportunities.

“I want to get down there and really make sure that our public schools are fully funded,” Lands said. “I want to increase that funding. We have to develop additional revenue sources.”

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Supporting women’s access to healthcare has become a core tenant of her campaign, but Lands said there is additional need for healthcare accessibility.

“I see a lot of families that are hurting,” Lands said. “The challenges we’re facing, not just with mental healthcare, but healthcare across the state, rural hospitals closing, the lack of Medicaid expansion, families just do not have access to affordable healthcare.”

Powell has worked across industries in Alabama with a background in finance. He has served as a Madison City Council member since 2016. From that position, Powell said he watched communities across the state receive funding and support he wants to bring to District 10.

Powell said his growing community needs someone willing to build relationships. He’s hoping to tackle issues related to inflation, which he said begins by supporting education.

“You get more educated people that get better jobs, and it lifts them up out of that stalemate if you will,” Powell said. “Even if inflation comes along, they have better jobs with better pay.”

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Powell wants to support infrastructure and the economy. He said his decision-making process is simple.

“My principles are God, family and my country and state, and I don’t get those priorities out of line,” Powell said. “I always make sure I keep those priorities, and if I’m taking care of my family, and taking care of those things, you can bet I’m taking care of your own.”

The special election will take place March 26. To confirm your registration status, ballot status or polling location, click here.

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