Jim Zeigler Returns to His Roots: A Run for the Public Service Commission

Staff Writer January 24, 2026

​MONTGOMERY, AL — Jim Zeigler, the veteran Republican

politician and former State Auditor, has officially qualified to run for Place 2 on the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC) in the 2026 election cycle. The move marks a "full circle" moment for the 77-year-old Sylacauga native, who first served on the commission over 50 years ago.

​The Campaign: A "Warrior" for the People

​Zeigler, known for his self-branded "Watchman" persona during his two terms as State Auditor (2015–2023), entered the race on the final day of qualifying in January 2026. He joins a crowded Republican primary field that includes incumbent Chris Beeker III, who was appointed to the seat in late 2024 to succeed his father.

​In his announcement, Zeigler emphasized his independence from special interests, claiming his campaign is funded by citizens rather than "Special Interest PACs."

​"I look forward to returning to the political battlefield and, once again, being a warrior for my family’s future and the state and people I love," Zeigler stated.

​A Decades-Long Political Journey

​Zeigler’s history with the PSC is unique. He was first elected to the commission in 1974, serving until 1978. Since that early start, his career has seen numerous bids for statewide office, including runs for State Treasurer, Secretary of State, and Governor.

​Most recently, Zeigler served as Alabama’s State Auditor, where he gained a reputation for filing ethics complaints and positioning himself as a fiscal watchdog. After being term-limited in 2022, he ran for Secretary of State, winning the initial primary but ultimately losing in a runoff to Wes Allen.

​The Road Ahead: 2026 Election Dates

​The Republican primary for the PSC is shaping up to be one of the most watched races in the state. Zeigler’s name recognition provides him a significant platform, but he faces a field of challengers including Chris Beeker III, Priscilla Andrews, Jeffrey M. Boyd, and Brent Woodall.

​The Republican Primary Election is scheduled for May 19, 2026. If no candidate receives a majority of the vote, a Primary Runoff Election will follow on June 16, 2026. The winners will then advance to the General Election on November 3, 2026.

​As the primary approaches, Zeigler is expected to focus his platform on utility rates and consumer protection, leaning on his "Watchman" brand to argue that he is the best candidate to oversee the state’s utility monopolies.

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