Jay Mitchell for Attorney General: A Vision for Law and Order in Alabama

By Staff Writer May 13, 2026

​In a wide-ranging interview with Christopher M. Peeks and Brandon Moseley on the BCS. State of Alabama podcast, former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell outlined his platform for Attorney General, emphasizing a "get on offense" approach to law enforcement, public safety, and conservative governance. With the Republican primary approaching on May 19, Mitchell is positioning himself as a seasoned legal expert ready to partner with federal and state leaders to secure "generational conservative victories."

​A Proven Legal Pedigree

​Mitchell highlighted his extensive background, from practicing law for 16 years to his six and a half years on the state’s highest court. He argued that his judicial experience—handling complex criminal and civil cases—is a prerequisite for the role of the state's chief legal officer.

​"You need somebody who knows the law first," Mitchell said, contrasting his two decades of experience with opponents he claims have minimal courtroom exposure. He likened the role of a justice to a replay official in football, ensuring the rules are followed, whereas the Attorney General must be the "chief law enforcement officer" who initiates action to protect the state’s interests.

​Strengthening Support for Law Enforcement

​A central pillar of Mitchell’s campaign is "backing the blue." He discussed the case of former Montgomery police officer Cody Smith as a turning point in his decision to run. Mitchell criticized the current handling of the case, asserting that the officer was wrongfully prosecuted for doing his job.

​To prevent similar situations, Mitchell proposed the creation of a Critical Incident Assessment Team. This team would be assembled early in the aftermath of officer-involved shootings to review body cam footage and training standards, ensuring that officers who follow the law are not unfairly dragged through the legal system.

​Illegal Gambling and "Broken Windows"

​Mitchell took a firm stance against the expansion of gambling in Alabama. He cited concerns about crime, homelessness, and the potential transformation of Alabama’s coastal areas into casino hubs.

​Beyond opposition to expansion, Mitchell advocated for more aggressive enforcement of existing laws against illegal "grey-market" gambling. Invoking the "broken windows" theory, he argued that allowing small-scale lawlessness like illegal bingo machines in gas stations sends a message that higher forms of crime will be tolerated.

​Transparency and Campaign Integrity

​The interview touched on the heated nature of the primary race. Mitchell addressed and refuted claims regarding his past legal work, while also calling for greater transparency in campaign financing. He raised concerns about "dark money" and out-of-state contributions in the race, noting that 97% of his own funding comes from within Alabama and is fully disclosed.

​Aligning with a National Conservative Movement

​Looking toward the future, Mitchell emphasized the importance of state-level leadership in the current political climate. He expressed a desire to work closely with federal authorities and state leaders to create a uniform approach to issues like illegal immigration and Medicaid fraud.

​"The moment has shifted in America," Mitchell concluded. "This is not a time for being low energy or passive. We’ve got to get on offense."