Sheriff Matt Gentry Joins the BCS .State of Alabama to Discuss PSC Bid and Law Enforcement

By Staff Writer April 29, 2026

​In a wide-ranging interview on the BCS .State of Alabama, Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry sat down with Brandon Moseley and Christopher M. Peeks to discuss his run for Public Service Commission (PSC) Place 1. Gentry, a veteran of law enforcement and the U.S. Marine Corps, highlighted the critical role of the PSC, an agency he says touches the lives of every Alabamian through its regulation of utilities and transportation.

​Concerns Over PSC Restructuring

​A major focus of the conversation was recent legislative changes to the PSC. Gentry expressed concerns regarding a new bill that expands the commission from three to seven members and creates an appointed Director of Energy position. Gentry questioned the timing of the transition, noting that four members will be appointed before the current election cycle even concludes. [02:00]

​He also addressed the new "rate freeze" included in the law, which he argues locks in historically high utility rates for the next three years rather than allowing an elected commission to evaluate and potentially decrease them. [12:02]

​Energy and Land Use

​On the topic of solar energy, Gentry took a firm stance against the conversion of large swaths of farmland into solar farms. He cited concerns regarding environmental hazards, such as potential chemical leaks or glass debris following natural disasters, and questioned the long-term responsibility for cleanup once panels reach the end of their 20-year lifespan. [10:02]

​Law Enforcement and Technology

​The discussion also touched on Gentry's tenure as Sheriff, including his early support for constitutional carry and the integration of new technology in policing. Gentry shared how drones and thermal imaging have become essential tools for officer safety and suspect apprehension in rural areas. [31:13]

​He also discussed the evolving challenges of drug enforcement, specifically the shift from prescription opioids to heroin and the current fentanyl crisis. [22:26] Gentry emphasized the importance of balancing firm enforcement with the 33 rehabilitation and work-release programs currently operating within the Cullman County detention facility. [25:48]

​Looking Toward the Primary

​Sheriff Gentry is running for PSC Place 1 in the upcoming primary election on May 19. He emphasized that regardless of potential changes to the commission's structure, he views the role as a statewide service committed to transparency and bringing balance to Alabama's business owners and citizens. [05:52]

Sheriff Matt Gentry

​For more investigative insights and political updates, stay tuned to the BCS .State of Alabama.