TUSCUMBIA, Ala. (WHNT) – A longtime Democrat was apparently defeated Tuesday night in northwest Alabama. It appears Sen. Roger Bedford lost to challenger Dr. Larry Stutts in a very close race for District 6.
The latest numbers show Stutts winning by just 60 votes. With 95 of 95 precincts reporting, here is the final count:
Larry Stutts (R) – 17,605
Roger Bedford, Jr. (D) – 17,545
“I am so thankful to the people of this district for their support and for their prayers,” said Stutts. “When we began this campaign, many refused to believe that we could defeat a long time incumbent that would outspend us 5:1. Well, the people of this district sent a message tonight that has silenced those doubters. I look forward to delivering for Northwest Alabamians as their State Senator.”
This is Stutts’ first run for public office. He is a physician and lives in Tuscumbia.
Alabama Republican Party Chairman Bill Armistead congratulated Stutts on his win.
“Dr. Larry Stutts’ historic defeat of long time Democrat Senator Roger Bedford sends a strong message that voters are tired of politics as usual and want some fresh faces representing them in Montgomery. Dr. Stutts ran a great campaign and it was truly rewarding to see how the voters embraced him and his message,” Armistead said.
Sen. Bedford has not conceded the race, but told the Times Daily he would accept the outcome.
“If it’s the good Lord’s will that we close this chapter in our life and move on to something else He would have me do, then I am at peace with that, as is my family,” Bedford said.
A recount will likely happen because of the close total.
