Alabama Democrats Announce PSC Primary Candidates as Utility Costs Dominate Voter Concerns

Montgomery, AL (BuzzReport) — With rising utility bills and affordability emerging as a top concern for Alabama consumers, the Alabama Democratic Party has announced its candidates for two seats on the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). The Democratic primary will be held on May 19.

Democrats are fielding candidates for the PSC at a moment when many Alabamians are feeling the strain of increasing power and gas rates. Three candidates are running: John Northrop and Jeff Ramsey are competing for Place 1, while Sheila McNeil is running unopposed for Place 2.

McNeil, who previously served on the San Antonio, Texas City Council and currently chairs the Madison County Democrats, said her candidacy is about offering voters an alternative and restoring public accountability to the commission.
“I believe power should rest with the public, not with power companies,” McNeil said, emphasizing the PSC’s role in protecting consumers.

Ramsey, a Mobile native who is widely known online as thatalabamafella, said he is running to advocate for working-class families who are struggling with higher monthly bills. He criticized what he described as a lack of responsiveness from current elected officials as utility rates continue to climb.
“People keep seeing their power bills go up, and they don’t see anyone standing up for them,” Ramsey said.

Northrop focused on Alabama’s broader economic challenges, noting that residents pay more for electricity than the national average despite the state’s low median income. He called for greater transparency at the PSC and more deliberate, consumer-focused energy policies.
“Alabamians deserve clear, fair regulation that works for the public, not just for utilities,” Northrop said.

A recent poll conducted by The Buzz Report found that affordability has become a major concern for Alabama families, with many respondents citing sharply rising prices over the past year.

The Alabama Public Service Commission regulates utilities across the state, including Alabama Power and Spire. Commissioners are elected statewide to four-year terms. Both Democratic and Republican primaries for the PSC will take place on May 19.