7. U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) reflected on his tenure representing Alabama’s First Congressional District, as he leaves Congress after losing a primary to U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve. Highlighting his achievements, Carl points to successes in energy policy, infrastructure funding, rural healthcare, and support for veterans, among other accomplishments. While bidding farewell, he expresses optimism for the future of south Alabama, the state, and the nation, emphasizing his pride in their shared values and resilience.

6. With an expanded playoff and legalized player payoffs, some argue that college football is in disarray amid changing rules and a lack of centralized leadership; and the idea of a “commissioner of college football” has gained traction. Penn State head coach James Franklin champions Nick Saban as the ideal candidate, citing his unparalleled leadership and deep understanding of the game. Franklin and others see the role as essential to unifying conferences, establishing consistent rules, and restoring stability to the sport’s rapidly shifting landscape, but Saban really seems to be enjoying his role on ESPN.

5. The National Weather Service confirmed three tornadoes touched down in Alabama Saturday night, including two EF1s in Limestone and Lamar counties and an EF0 in Mobile County. The EF1 tornado in Athens caused significant damage to the town square and tossing an anchored helicopter 50-60 feet at Veterans Memorial Park, while no injuries have been reported from any of the storms. With additional surveys underway in multiple counties, the NWS anticipates identifying more tornadoes amid widespread storm reports across the Southeast.

4. Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at 100, is remembered for his journey from peanut farmer to the presidency and his lifelong commitment to faith and service, his record as president is less fondly remembered. Alabama officials, including U.S. Sens. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), praised Carter’s post-presidency humanitarian work, especially his contributions to Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center. While his presidency remains an example of a failed administration, his compassion, charity, and dedication to public good continue to inspire across the political spectrum.

3. There is apparently overwrought concern as Auburn University and Auburn University at Montgomery are reportedly the only predominantly white colleges in Alabama with decreases in black student enrollment over the past five years, despite overall enrollment gains. Auburn saw a 12% increase in total enrollment but a 2% decrease in Black students, a trend attributed to more selective admission criteria aimed at improving rankings. In contrast, the state’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities are seeing record enrollment and the University of Alabama and other institutions increased Black student enrollment, with UA highlighting scholarship accessibility.

2. Debate over the H-1B visa program continues with some Republicans arguing for the program while the base is seen as wanting to rein in all types of immigration. X and Tesla CEO Elon Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy championing it as essential for attracting top global talent, while immigration hardliners criticize it for undermining American jobs and wages, there seems to be some agreement on reforms to better balance innovation with protection of American workers. In Alabama, 273 companies employed 1,129 H-1B workers in 2024, with major employers including UAB, Auburn University, and Shipt Inc.

1. Alabamians flock to neighboring states like Tennessee and Florida to buy lottery tickets as the Mega Millions jackpot soared past $1 billion, highlighting the state’s ongoing loss of potential lottery revenue. Many residents and lawmakers like Alabama State Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest) expressed frustration over Alabama’s lack of a lottery, pointing out missed educational opportunities and economic benefits enjoyed by states with legal gaming, adding, “the people in Alabama overwhelmingly support the lottery and the right to vote on it, and they deserve that.” Despite bipartisan support, Alabama’s latest gaming legislation narrowly failed in the Senate, but lawmakers are hopeful for renewed efforts to bring a lottery to the state.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.