Tribune Debates 2026 Announced for Senate District 4 and Cullman County Sheriff

The Cullman Tribune will host live candidate forums ahead of the 2026 primary elections.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Cullman Tribune has announced its 2026 election debate schedule, including forums for Alabama Senate District 4 on May 12 and the Cullman County Sheriff race on May 14. The debates will feature Republican candidates and aim to provide voters with direct engagement and information ahead of the May 19 primary election.

Why it matters

The Tribune's debate series has become an important part of the local electoral process, giving candidates a platform to share their views and allowing voters to make informed decisions. The debates also promote civic engagement and transparency in the political system.

The details

The Senate District 4 debate on May 12 will feature incumbent Republican Sen. Garlan Gudger Jr. and challenger JR Bowling. The Cullman County Sheriff debate on May 14 will include Republican candidates Chad Whaley and Tim Creel. The debates will take place at Wallace State Community College and be independently moderated by The Tribune. Several format updates have been made, including the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce no longer co-hosting but encouraging community participation.

  • The Senate District 4 debate will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 6 p.m.
  • The Cullman County Sheriff debate will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 6 p.m.

The players

Garlan Gudger Jr.

Incumbent Republican state senator for Alabama's Senate District 4.

JR Bowling

Republican challenger for Alabama's Senate District 4 seat.

Chad Whaley

Republican candidate for Cullman County Sheriff.

Tim Creel

Republican candidate for Cullman County Sheriff.

Wallace State Community College

The college is hosting the debates on its Hanceville campus.

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What they’re saying

“The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce's Governmental Affairs Committee will not host a candidate forum this election cycle. We believe the debates being conducted are thoughtful, well organized and informative for our members. We appreciate the efforts being made to engage the community and will encourage our members to listen in with The Cullman Tribune debates and stay informed throughout the election process.”

— Joey Orr, Chamber President (The Cullman Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Cullman Tribune's debate series has become an important part of the local electoral process, giving candidates a platform to share their views and allowing voters to make informed decisions. The debates promote civic engagement and transparency in the political system.