Building Alabama's Future: The Kay Ivey Blueprint

Governor Kay Ivey, the first elected female Republican Governor of Alabama, has once again demonstrated why she is one of the most effective and transformative leaders in the state's history.

In her eighth State of the State Address, she set the tone for her final years in office, outlining a bold vision rooted in conservative values, economic prosperity, and educational excellence. Her leadership, which began in a moment of crisis when she stepped in after Robert Bentley's resignation, required her to immediately restore public trust and stabilize a government shaken by scandal. She swiftly implemented ethical reforms, reassured business leaders of Alabama's economic direction, and focused on bipartisan cooperation to navigate the state's pressing challenges. Her tenure has been marked by stability, innovation, and a relentless drive to move Alabama forward.

Her address was a testament to the resilience and spirit of Alabamians. She reminded the state, "Y'all, if there is one thing to know about us Alabamians, it is to never count us out." Whether in football, space innovation, or education, Alabama continues to rise to the occasion under her leadership.

She celebrated the state's remarkable improvements in education, particularly in literacy and numeracy, where Alabama has seen historic gains. When she took office, Alabama ranked 49th in reading and 52nd in math. Today, those numbers have improved to 34th and 32nd, respectively-a steady remarkable improvement.

Governor Ivey highlighted the successes of the CHOOSE Act, an education savings account program that has already attracted 18,000 applicants. "Clearly, taxpaying Alabama families want school choice! And thanks to your work, they are getting just that," she declared. She also touted the success of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which has delivered over one million books to children across Alabama, ensuring that students are not just learning to read, but reading to learn.

Beyond education, Ivey emphasized economic growth, reporting that over $55 billion has been invested in Alabama during her tenure, creating more than 93,000 jobs across key industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and technology. Her administration has prioritized infrastructure development, with nearly 500 road and bridge projects completed through the Rebuild Alabama initiative, ensuring the state remains competitive and connected. Alabama has also emerged as a national model for broadband expansion, helping rural communities gain access to high-speed internet.

Governor Ivey's commitment to law and order was on full display. She announced her unwavering support for legislation to protect law enforcement officers, combat inner-city gun violence, and enhance penalties for violent offenders. Her administration also championed Aniah's Law, which strengthens pretrial detention policies for violent criminals, ensuring they remain off the streets before trial. She announced her unwavering support for legislation to protect law enforcement officers, combat inner-city gun violence, and enhance penalties for violent offenders. "A safe Alabama is a secure future for Alabama, and a secured future is our goal," she proclaimed.

Her strong stance on securing the southern border and supporting President Trump's efforts to restore national security resonated deeply with conservative voters across the state.

As she prepares to conclude her tenure, Governor Ivey remains laser-focused on the future. She called on legislators to pass responsible budgets, support veterans, foster economic opportunities, and ensure the safety of every Alabamian. "The people of Alabama deserve our very best. Future generations of Alabamians deserve our hardest work today. This is our opportunity. So, let's not waste a moment" she urged.

Governor Kay Ivey's legacy is one of unwavering leadership, conservative principles, and historic accomplishments. She has not only honored the trust placed in her by the people but has elevated the standard of governance in Alabama. As she steps into the final stretch of her tenure, one thing is clear-her impact on Alabama will be felt for generations to come.

Perry O Hooper Jr is a former State Representative who writes columns on his political perspective and has been published in a number of publications around Alabama and beyond. He was an early supporter of Donald Trump and was the 2016 Trump Victory Chair.

Opinions expressed in the Alabama Gazette are the opinions and viewpoints of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Alabama Gazette staff, advertisers, and/ publishers.