Chen Dominates Fundraising in Alabama Auditor Race

Republican candidate's war chest over 10 times larger than opponent's with two months until primary.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, photorealistic painting of an empty state auditor's office desk, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the surface. The scene conveys a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of the political process.The race for Alabama state auditor has become a high-stakes battle, with fundraising emerging as a key indicator of candidate viability.Montgomery Today

With just over two months until the primary election, Republican candidate Derek Chen is dominating the fundraising race for Alabama state auditor. Chen, an attorney from Vestavia Hills, brought in $102,000 in March, over ten times more than his opponent, incumbent Republican Andrew Sorrell, who raised $7,400. Chen's large donations include $80,000 from a single individual in California and $20,000 from two political action committees.

Why it matters

Fundraising is a key indicator of a candidate's viability and support, especially in down-ballot races like state auditor. Chen's massive financial advantage over Sorrell suggests he is the frontrunner in the Republican primary, which could impact the general election dynamics.

The details

In March, Chen raised $102,000, with the majority coming from an $80,000 donation from an individual in southern California. He also received $10,000 each from FARMPAC - the Alabama Farmers Federation's PAC - and SVBII PAC. Sorrell, the incumbent, raised $7,400 from individual donors and spent $51,000, mostly on advertising. Democrat Violet Edwards, who is running unopposed in her primary, raised $3,050 in March.

  • The primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026.
  • Fundraising reports were filed on April 3, 2026.

The players

Derek Chen

A Republican attorney from Vestavia Hills who is the frontrunner in the state auditor race based on his massive fundraising advantage.

Andrew Sorrell

The incumbent Republican state auditor who raised significantly less than Chen in March.

Violet Edwards

The Democratic candidate for state auditor who is running unopposed in her primary.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Republican primary election will be held on May 19, 2026, where Chen and Sorrell will face off. The winner will then advance to the general election in November.

The takeaway

Chen's massive fundraising advantage over his opponent Sorrell suggests he is the clear frontrunner in the Republican primary for Alabama state auditor. This could have significant implications for the general election dynamics in the fall.