Senate District 13 candidates discuss issues ahead of general election
Incumbent Randy Price and challenger Jamie Forsyth share positions on healthcare, taxes, education and other issues facing East Alabama
BY DANIEL SCHMIDT
THE LAFAYATTE SUN
EAST ALABAMA — With the Nov. 3 general election approaching, voters in Alabama Senate District 13 will choose between incumbent Sen. Randy Price and challenger Jamie Forsyth.
The two candidates responded to questions submitted by The LaFayette Sun addressing some of the issues facing Alabama residents, including Medicaid expansion, rural hospitals, grocery taxes, public education, infrastructure, economic development and the state’s prison system.
Their responses highlight differences in their approaches to several issues, particularly health care policy and Medicaid expansion. Both candidates also addressed their priorities for the district, their relationships with local communities and their approaches to representing constituents in Montgomery.
Price emphasized his legislative record, including funding he said he has secured for roads, infrastructure, workforce development and other district projects. Forsyth outlined proposals for addressing state and local needs, emphasizing rural health care, public accountability and accessibility to constituents.
The candidates’ responses are presented together by topic to allow readers to compare their positions.
Legislative priorities
In the upcoming legislative session, what is the first bill you would sponsor or support and why would you start there?
Jamie Forsyth (D. - Ranburne): “Expanding Medicaid would be one of my first priorities. I would begin by listening to health care providers, constituents and experienced legislators to understand the proposals available and how to fund them responsibly. As someone new to the Legislature, I would come prepared to learn the process and ask questions. I would support legislation based on its substance and its benefit to our district, and I would work across party lines to move it forward. Because our rural health care system is under severe stress, I have no problem leading this initiative if the Legislature keeps dragging its feet as it has been. We are running out of time.”
Randy Price (R. -Opelika): “As a state senator, I have sponsored, co-sponsored and voted on legislation that supports our schools, workforce development, infrastructure, our first responders and tourism. I am proud of the accomplishments we have made, and there is much more work that needs to be done.”
Grocery sales tax
Should Alabama remove or reduce the state sales tax on groceries? How would the state replace that revenue?
Forsyth: “Republican legislative leaders recently announced they plan to introduce legislation next year to eliminate this tax. If they really have a plan, and this isn’t just a political stunt during an election cycle, the governor should call a special session now. People need relief now. Why wait? I support reducing the state sales tax on groceries, with the goal of eliminating it responsibly. Groceries are a necessity, and families need relief at the checkout counter. Before removing that revenue entirely, we need a dependable replacement that protects school funding and does not simply shift the burden onto families elsewhere. I would work with legislators from both parties and state budget staff to examine recurring revenue growth and existing tax incentives, then establish a responsible path forward. If elected, I would need to read the proposed legislation to make sure it has no hidden agendas and eliminates the tax cleanly. If it does, I would support it.”
Price: “I voted for $1.5 billion in tax cuts for Alabamians, including cuts to the grocery tax, the largest tax cut in state history. I know cutting taxes and growing workforce development mean more jobs and better lives for our district. I support lower taxes, fewer regulations and policies that help Alabama’s small businesses grow and help families.”
Rural hospitals and health care costs
What would you do to keep rural hospitals open and lower health care costs?
Forsyth: “Keeping rural hospitals open would be one of my highest priorities. I would bring hospital leaders, health care professionals and local officials together to identify what each facility needs to remain financially stable and serve its community. Expanding Medicaid would be part of that effort, along with pursuing available federal resources and addressing workforce shortages. I would also work with Alabama’s congressional delegation on solutions that require federal action. We need a sustainable approach that helps people afford care and keeps essential services close to home. If the Legislature has no appetite for opting into the Affordable Care Act, we must put in the work to come up with a health care plan that works for Alabamians.”
Price: “I understand the very real struggle to provide adequate health care to all Alabamians. I will continue working to make sure hospitals in both rural and regional areas can provide the level of service their communities need.”
Medicaid expansion
What is your position on expanding Medicaid?
Forsyth: “I fully support expanding Medicaid. Access to affordable health care matters to working families and to those caring for aging relatives. I would work through every available state and federal channel to advance a responsible expansion plan. We need to set aside political differences and focus on the people who need care, the providers who serve them and the communities that depend on a functioning health care system.”
Price: “I serve on the Health Committee, and I will continue to look for ways to fund Medicaid. However, at this time I do not support expanding Medicaid. I will continue to diligently advocate for making health care more affordable.”
Lottery, casinos and sports betting
Should Alabama allow a lottery, casinos or sports betting? Should voters decide?
Forsyth: “I support allowing Alabama voters to decide whether to establish a state lottery. They deserve a clear proposal explaining how it would operate, how it would be regulated and where the proceeds would go. Any proposal involving casinos or sports betting should also clearly explain what would be authorized and include strong oversight and consumer protections. Lottery revenue could help address important needs, but we should be realistic about what it can fund and hold those dollars accountable. To be clear, if a ballot amendment passed, my vote would reflect what constituents in this district want.”
Price: “I think voters should have the right to vote.”
Alabama’s prison system
What would you do about the state’s prison system
Forsyth: “Our prison system needs serious attention, and I would begin with a thorough review of conditions, staffing, spending and the results of current efforts. I would listen directly to correctional officers, administrators, medical professionals and others with firsthand knowledge. We need safe facilities, adequate staffing, effective treatment and programs that prepare people to return to their communities successfully. I would expect clear accountability for money already committed and a practical plan for addressing the problems that remain. We have simply invested too much money in our prison system over the years to still have the same problems, when other issues could greatly benefit from that funding. The price tag for the recent prison construction project is approaching $2 billion.”
Price: “Gov. Kay Ivey’s administration has undertaken prison construction, which I supported.”
Public education
How would you help public schools?
Forsyth: “I would work closely with teachers, school employees, parents and local education leaders to understand what their schools need and help them obtain the resources to meet those needs. That includes supporting competitive pay, safe classrooms and strong academic and career-training opportunities. I would also examine state requirements to make sure they are useful and adequately funded. Every school has room to improve, and the people doing the work every day need a meaningful voice in those decisions.”
Price: “As a member of the Education Policy Committee, I have worked diligently to ensure our children, from pre-K to workforce development to higher education, will never be left behind. I will make sure our teachers have the resources they need in the classroom.”
Roads, bridges and aging infrastructure
What would you do about roads, bridges and other aging public infrastructure?
Forsyth: “I would work with county commissions and municipal leaders to identify urgent needs and help secure available state and federal funding. Local governments know their communities, but they also need a senator who will help them navigate funding programs and advocate for worthwhile projects. I would expect clear priorities, responsible maintenance plans and public accountability for how the money is spent. Roads, bridges, water systems and other essential infrastructure need consistent attention throughout the district.”
Price: “As your senator, I have fought for our fair share of road funding. I have secured more than $36 million to pave roads, add safety lanes and improve traffic right here in District 13.”
Jobs, investment and economic development
How would you get state help for jobs, investment and economic growth?
Forsyth: “I would work alongside our county commissions and municipal leaders to address the infrastructure needs they see every day. My role would be to help bring state resources to the table, advocate for our district’s priorities and support local efforts to secure state and federal funding. From roads and bridges to water systems and broadband, we need dependable infrastructure that serves families, supports local businesses and prepares our communities for growth. Strong partnerships between local and state government are essential to getting that work done.”
Price: “I am proud to have brought millions in economic development, including the Cheaha State Park hotel and conference center, driving tourism and creating more customers and opportunities for local businesses. Recently, I was able to secure a $4 million grant for the Randolph-Roanoke Career Tech Center. In partnership with Roanoke City Schools and Southern Union State Community College, the center requested funding through the Career and Technical Education Facilities Grant to expand workforce training opportunities that will meet the needs of Alabama’s growing economy and the increased demand for highly skilled trades professionals. The project will renovate an existing facility into a state-of-the-art welding training center equipped with industry-standard technology and will construct new boys’ and girls’ locker rooms and restrooms to accommodate a rapidly growing student population. This investment will increase instructional capacity, improve student safety and prepare students for high-wage, high-demand careers that are essential to Alabama’s manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding and defense industries.”
Independence from party leadership
When would you vote against your party’s leadership?
Forsyth: “I would vote against my party’s leadership whenever I believe a proposal fails to serve the people I represent. I would listen, study the issue and consider its practical consequences before deciding. My responsibility is to the people of District 13, and I would explain my vote honestly, including when I disagree with my own party. I would welcome good ideas and opportunities to work together across party lines. I work for the people in the district, not a political party, corporation or other special interest group.”
Price: “I will continue to support conservative leadership that benefits our district and will work with me to make sure we receive our fair share from Montgomery.”
Communication with constituents
How would you stay in touch with voters between elections?
Forsyth: “I would always be available by phone, email or mail. I would hold regular public meetings throughout the district, provide updates on legislation and my votes, and respond to constituents promptly. Communication also means following up after someone asks for help. I want people to feel comfortable contacting me and confident that their concerns will receive attention throughout my term.”
Price: “I have always had an open-door policy. I meet with constituents across the district. Anyone who needs anything knows they can always reach me.”
Balancing the needs of growing and rural communities
The district covers parts of several east Alabama counties. How would you balance the needs of fast-growing and rural areas?
Forsyth: “I would put in the time to understand and represent every part of the district. Growing communities may need expanded roads, schools and utilities, while rural areas may need better access to health care, broadband and employment. I would meet regularly with local leaders and residents in every county, then advocate for resources based on documented needs. Smaller communities deserve help pursuing funding, too. My responsibility would be to the entire district throughout all four years, not just during an election year.”
Price: “I have secured more than $135 million for roads, infrastructure and broadband to keep our communities connected and growing. I have fought for rural communities to get their fair share and to improve their way of life.”
Final questions: Leadership and accomplishments
The candidates were asked different final questions addressing their approaches to the office and their qualifications for serving District 13.
Forsyth was asked: What would you do differently from the current officeholder, Randy Price?
“I would make serving the people of District 13 my full-time priority. As the owner of Forsyth Floor Covering LLC, I understand the responsibilities of running a business. If elected, I would step away from my business so I could devote my undivided attention to serving as your senator.
“I have worked and built things my entire life. We need a senator who is willing to be more hands-on and is not afraid to work on issues like improving access to affordable health care, strengthening public schools, supporting small-town businesses and creating jobs that allow families to build a secure future.
“I would visit every county in the district regularly throughout my four-year term, hold public meetings, explain my votes and make myself more accessible. Being present means showing up to listen and help, even when there is no camera or ribbon to cut. Every community deserves that commitment throughout the entire term. I want people to know they can reach me, that I will listen and that I will follow through. That is the standard I would ask voters to hold me to.”
Price was asked: What is your most important accomplishment in office? What vote would you take back, if any?
“I am proud of all my accomplishments and of making sure our district receives its fair share from Montgomery. I will continue to fight for our small businesses and create a pro-business environment; that’s why I have been endorsed by the Business Council of Alabama. I will continue to cut burdensome taxes on businesses and job creators so they can hire more and invest here at home. I am proud to have led the effort to secure funding for emergency shelters, community projects and our fire responders. I will make sure our local heroes have exactly what they need to keep us safe. I humbly ask for your vote on Nov. 3 so I can continue working for you.”
