ChumCity Scoop: Montgomery's Movers & Shakers!

Yellowhammer News just dropped their annual Power & Influence Top 50 list for 2025, and it's the hottest take on who's calling the shots in Montgomery! This year's list is extra juicy, especially with the massive 2026 elections already brewing. These are the folks positioning their teams for victory.

We're talking deep dives, insider info, and the latest in Alabama's political scene. This list shines a spotlight on the top dogs using their power to make things happen.

And get this: Yellowhammer News is hosting their "Power of Service" event in Montgomery this week! Sounds like a party!

So, who made the cut? Let's dive into the Top 20!

#20: Anthony Daniels – Dem Dynamo!

Alabama House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels is a 21st-century force. Unlike some, he campaigned on being a dealmaker for his district. And he delivered! Sure, he fights for progressive ideas, but his bipartisan compromises have been key to keeping the Alabama Legislature productive. We wish more lawmakers were like Daniels!

#19: Danny Garrett – The Budget Boss!

Alabama House Ways & Means Education Committee Chair Danny Garrett had a killer year, thanks to that sweet $190 million tax cut. He's famous for breaking down complex budgets and making reforms. Word on the street is he hammers out budget details with his Senate counterpart, Chairman Orr, over breakfast at the Farmer's Market. Garrett's also played a big part in the CHOOSE and RAISE Acts!

#18: Bobby Singleton – Senate Showman!

Alabama Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton's got game. Some days he's playing all the angles, others he's bluffing. He knows when to slow things down to fight for his district and caucus. "Little Bobby" has been in the Senate for 20+ years and his flair is no joke. He's as shrewd as they come.

#17: Steve Marshall – Law & Order!

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall sees his mission as battling out-of-state left-wing radicals trying to force their ideas on Alabama. He's all about amicus briefs and lawsuits, challenging them at every turn. Big-time conservative legal minds trust Marshall to do what's right.

#16: Ginger Avery-Buckner – The Legal Lioness!

For over a decade, Ginger Avery-Buckner has been a State House mainstay. As CEO of the Alabama Association for Justice, she fiercely defends Alabama's litigators. She's known for her strategic mind and memory. Get on the wrong side of her spreadsheets, and you'll regret it!

#15: Steve Windom – The Dealmaker!

Steve Windom is the guy you call to get things done. His firm's stacked with talent, and Windom's approach is pure art. He's a machine – always working! Never bet against the former lieutenant governor. Want to pass a bill in Alabama? Windom's your guy.

#14: Houston Smith – Power Player!

As VP of Government Affairs for Alabama Power, Houston Smith helps shape the state's policy scene. He's known for building trust and using policy to drive growth across Alabama. Smith's a trusted voice and brings insight to every deal.

#13: Ted Hosp – Healthcare Hero!

Ted Hosp is a master navigator of complex healthcare legislation. If you want to know how power works in Montgomery, Ted Hosp is the example. He's the go-to guy on insurance legislation and gets results for Blue Cross Blue Shield.

#12: Steve Raby - The Fixer!

Steve Raby runs Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter’s political operations. He is one of the most effective individuals in Alabama politics. He's a seasoned veteran of campaign politics and keeps the stove hot since the primary runoff election in 2022.

#11: Quentin Riggins - Well Respected Leader!

Quentin Riggins is one of the most respected and well-liked figures in Alabama’s political and business landscape. As a senior leader at Alabama Power, Riggins is a tireless advocate for the company and the communities it serves.