Podcast Buzz Ends with a No: Former Birmingham Interim Mayor Roderick Royal Rules Out 2026 House Bid

By Christopher M Peeks October 24, 2025

In the latest election news from Alabama politics, former Birmingham interim Mayor Royal has closed the door on a legislative race in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

Speculation swirled about a possible Royal candidacy for Alabama House District 60 against incumbent Representative Juandalynn Givan last summer after an appearance on The BCS: State of Alabama podcast with co-host Brandon Moseley.

However, in a phone interview earlier today with the Alabama Political Contributor, Royal ruled out a run, saying, “If I was a betting man, I would bet against me being a candidate.” The former Birmingham City Councilman added that he “did not have the time to invest” in a campaign.

The Democratic primary is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

Christopher M. Peeks

Reporter and Columnist

Alabama Political Contributor

Former Birmingham interm Mayor Roderick Royal