Republican Club holds called meeting in Valley
BY JOHN BRICE
THE LAFAYETTE SUN
CHAMBERS COUNTY — As the Republican primary election approaches in May, the Chambers County Republican Club held a specially called meeting Thursday, Jan. 8, to address urgent business. Club members gathered in the fellowship hall of Fairfax Methodist Church in Valley, where Chairperson Kristin Nelson addressed attendees.
The first order of business was the distribution of qualifying form packets for candidates, followed by a brief discussion of compliance requirements set forth by the Alabama Secretary of State.
Nelson provided an overview of what she anticipates during the upcoming primary season, including increased competition within Republican primaries as well as against opposing candidates in the general election this fall. Drawing from her own experience as the successful Republican candidate for state representative in District 38, Nelson offered guidance to prospective candidates preparing for the primary process.
She encouraged candidates to view campaigning not only as competition but also as an opportunity for growth and refinement, noting that political contests can be challenging and emotionally demanding. Nelson also emphasized the importance of remaining positive and focused, adding that running for office requires courage and resilience.
The club next reviewed newly adopted bylaws that were approved last year to ensure compliance with state party guidelines. Under the updated structure, the organization will now operate with a county executive committee that meets separately from the club’s public meetings.
The county executive committee will include of up to 25 members. Attendees were asked to volunteer for the committee, with selections made based on the six county commission districts in Chambers County. Volunteers were chosen from each district and confirmed by a vote of the membership.
Later in the meeting, the club considered a resolution from the state party supporting the proposed Child Predator Death Penalty Act. According to the resolution, state Rep. Matt Simpson (House District 96) and state Sen. April Weaver (Senate District 14) have introduced legislation — House Bill 41 and Senate Bill 17 — for the 2026 legislative session.
The proposed legislation would amend the Code of Alabama to allow prosecutors to seek the death penalty in cases involving convictions for rape, sodomy or sexual torture when the victim is younger than 12 years old. Following a motion and second, the club voted to formally endorse the resolution.
