Robert McCollum Exits State Auditor Race: Endorses Derek Chen
- Christopher M Peeks
- 43 minutes ago
- 1 min read
By Christopher M Peeks September 17, 2025
Tallapoosa businessman Robert McCollum, the first to announce his candidacy for Alabama State Auditor, is exiting the race. He is instead focusing on capturing an open commission seat in his home county. McCollum, who previously ran for the Public Service Commission, is seeking to flip the fourth district, currently held by Democrat Emma Jean Thweatt, who chose not to seek re-election, to Republican hands. Redistricting led McCollum to switch races.
In a statement, McCollum said, "After careful consideration, I am withdrawing from the State Auditor's race and will instead direct my time and effort towards winning this long-held Democratic commission seat in the fourth district. I feel that with the new lines, the time is right for a Republican to win here. I want to serve the people of my home county. I am reminded of Coach Bryant's words, '
Mama called.' In doing so, I would like to endorse Derek Chen to be the next Alabama State Auditor. I talked with Derek earlier today and am proud to throw my support behind him."
The GOP primary will be held on May 19.
Christopher M. Peeks
Reporter and Columnist,
Alabama Political Contributor"