Ships in the Night: Ainsworth, Beeker, and the Bermuda Triangle of Relevance

By Christopher M Peeks September 30, 2025

Chris Beeker III and Will Ainsworth

In the most recent election news in Alabama politics, we learn that the outgoing lieutenant governor, Will Ainsworth—who is as lame of a duck as a mallard full of birdshot in a Labrador's mouth—is endorsing Chris Beeker III in his bid to win a full term to Place 1 of the Public Service Commission after ascending to office like a prince to the throne when Governor Ivey anointed him to take his father's position after Chip Beeker resigned last year.

The Yellowhammer State has a long tradition of dynastic political families. The Folsoms, the Wallaces, and the Baxleys served in constitutional offices, with the Folsoms—Big Jim and Little Jim—reaching the governor's office. So Beeker following in his father's footsteps is nothing new. The difference between the Beekers and the other families is they were elected by the people, not chosen by the state's chief executive. Chris Beeker's appointment left a taste in the mouths of voters as sour as spoiled buttermilk.

So why would Ainsworth put himself in the middle of that race? What dog does he have in the fight? He will not be working with the PSC. Remember, he opted out of the governor's race knowing that Tommy Tuberville would beat him like a rented mule. So his endorsement carries as much weight as a feathered pillow.

The lieutenant governor chose an odd time to throw his support—for lack of a better word—behind the younger Beeker, with qualifying still open. Anyone can jump in the race. Not like the lieutenant governor has a following. If his daddy had not bankrolled his campaign eight years ago, he would have been a one-term representative.

Ainsworth's public endorsement comes off as a drowning man trying to keep his head above water, knowing that once he leaves office, he’ll be as relevant as a fired Vanderbilt football coach—forgotten.

For this to make headlines shows we have a slow news cycle. Ainsworth and Beeker are passing like ships in the night, with one going into the Bermuda Triangle of politics—never to be seen again—and the other going into the eye of a hurricane. Hope Ainsworth gives Beeker a life jacket. He's got some rough waters ahead of him if he hopes to become Alabama political royalty.

Christopher M Peeks

Reporter and Columnist

Alabama Political Contributor