Alabama Lt. Governor Candidate’s Campaign Manager Admits to False PhD Claim

Montgomery, AL (BuzzReport) – The campaign manager for Alabama lieutenant governor candidate Nicole Wadsworth has admitted to falsely claiming that the commercial real estate developer held a PhD from the University of Alabama. The admission comes after an earlier request from the campaign that news outlets consistently refer to Wadsworth as “Dr. Nicole Wadsworth” in all coverage.

Earlier this month, Wadsworth’s campaign manager, Hunter Weathers, emailed media outlets, insisting on the use of the “Dr.” title for Wadsworth, citing degrees from the University of Alabama at Huntsville, the Florida Institute of Technology, and a PhD in economics from the University of Alabama. Weathers also stated that Wadsworth held certifications in zoning and planning from the University of North Alabama and economic development leadership from Auburn University.

However, on Wednesday, Weathers issued a corrected statement acknowledging the error. “In an earlier communication, our campaign made a mistype, specifically the institution that conferred her Ph.D.,” the revised statement read. “It was mentioned that she completed her Ph.D. at the University of Alabama; however, she has her undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.”

The statement clarified that Wadsworth “began graduate level coursework at the University of Alabama, then transferred to the Florida Institute of Technology – Huntsville campus and earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Science in Acquisition and Contract Management.” It further stated that Wadsworth completed her PhD at North Central Theological Seminary, focusing her research on the application of economic theory to the role of nonprofits in revitalizing economically distressed towns.

The corrected statement concluded by emphasizing Wadsworth’s commitment to serving Alabamians and utilizing her private sector experience to create economic opportunities. “Dr. Wadsworth knows that higher education and workforce development are vital to ensuring a strong Alabama,” it stated.

Currently, Wadsworth’s education is not listed on her LinkedIn profile. Attempts to reach North Central Theological Seminary and representatives from the University of Alabama system for comment were unsuccessful.

The race for lieutenant governor in the Republican primary is shaping up to be a competitive one. Other candidates in the field include Secretary of State Wes Allen, Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, and Opelika pastor Dean Odle.

The primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026.