G-KEMRNDRNLY https://news.google.com/swg/js/v1/swg-basic.js https://news.google.com/swg/js/v1/swg-basic.js Katherine Robertson Discusses AG Campaign, Crime Tools, and Federal Shifts on BCS State of Alabama ​ G-792S88PEV6
top of page

Katherine Robertson Discusses AG Campaign, Crime Tools, and Federal Shifts on BCS State of Alabama ​

Staff Writer April 04, 2026



​In a recent episode of the BCS State of Alabama podcast, hosts Christopher M. Peeks, owner of the Alabama Political Contributor website, and Brandon Mosley sat down with Katherine Robertson, the current Chief Counsel and candidate for Alabama Attorney General. With a decade of experience in the AG’s office, Robertson made the case that she is the only candidate ready to step into the role without "on-the-job training."


​From Number Two to Number One


​Robertson addressed the transition from her current role to the top spot, noting that while her title might change, her preparation has been extensive.


​"My name starts to be on everything... everybody has their own personality and priorities," Robertson said. "But the training I’ve had will make it a very easy transition. It’s hard to imagine something coming up that we haven’t already seen before, and I haven’t already learned how to navigate."


​As Chief Counsel, Robertson highlighted her diverse workload, which includes arguing before the state Supreme Court, negotiating opioid settlements, and handling environmental and consumer cases. She described herself as an "adrenaline junkie" who thrives on the variety of legal challenges the office faces.


​The "Local Leadership Problem" and Crime Tools


​A significant portion of the interview focused on Alabama’s crime statistics. When asked why certain metro areas like Birmingham and Montgomery struggle with higher violence compared to Huntsville or Mobile, Robertson pointed to political leadership.


  • ​The Critique: She argued that Democratic-run cities often fail to prioritize law enforcement recruitment or "talk tough on crime."

  • ​The State’s Response: Robertson highlighted several tools the AG’s office helped push through the legislature, including:

    • ​The Gang Bill: Designed to give prosecutors more leverage.

    • ​The Speedy Trial Act: To clear heavy caseloads in burdened DA offices.

    • ​The Deputy Brand Johnson Act: Aimed at reducing "back-end" sentence reductions.


​"We’ve tried to put all the tools on the table, but these local governments sometimes won’t take advantage of them," she noted, referencing the current tension between state officials and the leadership in Montgomery.

​The Federal Impact: Border Policy and Fentanyl


​Robertson credited the shift in federal administration for the recent drop in overdose deaths. She stated that fighting fentanyl is impossible with an "open border" and noted that the I-20 corridor through Birmingham remains a primary artery for


Mexican drug trafficking organizations.


​Regarding the state’s $300 to $500 million opioid settlement, Robertson expressed hope that these funds would provide a long-term impact on both prescription addiction and street-level fentanyl issues.


​Navigating Social Issues and Litigation


​The interview touched on the long-standing legal battles with the federal government over transgender medicine and Title IX. Robertson viewed these legal victories—culminating in Supreme Court affirmations of state laws—as a major factor in the 2024 political landscape.


​On the topic of prison litigation, she confirmed that the state is working toward a settlement in the systemic lawsuits filed by the DOJ. However, she cautioned that any agreement must be financially sustainable. "We don’t want to set ourselves up as being under a court order for the next 50 years," she explained.

​Budgeting and "Dark Money" Accusations


​Addressing campaign attacks regarding "dark money" from groups like RAGA, Robertson dismissed the claims as "politics getting a little silly." She stated she is proud of her national support, citing her 20-year history in the conservative legal movement and her work with farmers and foresters in Alabama.

​Finally, she addressed the Attorney General’s office budget, which accounts for only 0.01% of the State General Fund.


  • ​Small Footprint: With 170 employees, it is one of the

  • smallest offices in the country relative to population.

  • ​Stable Funding: Robertson argued for more intuitive and stable funding so the office isn't forced to "chase cases just for money" rather than focusing on the needs of constituents.


​Closing Statement:


​Robertson urged voters to consider her experience as Alabama prepares for a new governor and a new slate of constitutional officers. "I’ve enjoyed making my case to the people of Alabama. I’m going to keep working hard until May 19th," she concluded.


​


bottom of page
G-792S88PEV6