Governor Ivey Appoints Four New PSC Commissioners—Including Two Democrats and a Three-Star General

MONTGOMERY, AL (BuzzReport) — In a move set to fundamentally alter the state’s utility regulation landscape, Governor Kay Ivey announced on Wednesday the appointment of four new members to the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC). This expansion, authorized by legislation passed earlier this spring, aims to increase representation on the board as Alabama navigates ongoing concerns regarding utility costs and consumer affordability.  

The newly appointed commissioners, whose terms take effect January 18, 2027, are:

*Ron Burgess: A retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General and former executive vice president at Auburn University, Burgess brings an extensive background in national security and leadership.  

*Fred Johnson: A veteran expert in rural telecommunications and electric distribution, Johnson previously served as the CEO of Farmers Telecommunications for 23 years.  

 *Demarcus Joiner: An associate at the law firm Maynard Nexsen with significant experience in public policy and higher education administration.  

 *Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr.: The current president of Alabama State University and a former member of the Alabama State Senate.  

A New Era of Oversight

The appointments follow the passage of legislation that expands the PSC from three to seven members. The law was designed to provide Alabamians with broader representation and mandates a new structure that eventually transitions these seats to be elected by congressional district.  

“For Alabama to remain the best state in which to live, work and raise a family, we need good people serving in public office, including on our Public Service Commission,” Governor Ivey said in a statement. “I am proud to tap these four experienced leaders to serve their fellow Alabamians in this capacity. I expect these individuals to serve with honesty and integrity”.  

Strategic Selection Process

The appointments were made using a bipartisan submission process. Per the new law, Governor Ivey was required to select two individuals from lists provided by the Republican legislative leadership and two from lists provided by Democratic legislative leadership.  

These four individuals will join current PSC President Cynthia Almond on the commission. The reshuffling comes at a time of high public interest, as state lawmakers and constituents alike seek greater transparency regarding the state’s utility rate structures.  

For those following the commission’s evolution, these appointments mark a critical turning point as the state moves toward a more expansive, multi-member regulatory body