Luther Strange: The Appointment and Tenure of an Alabama U.S. Senator
The political landscape of Alabama shifted significantly in late 2016 following the nomination of Senator Jeff Sessions as the United States Attorney General. This move created a vacancy in the U.S. Senate, prompting a competitive process for appointment by Governor Robert Bentley. Among the many aspirants was Luther Strange, the then-Attorney General of Alabama, who sought to transition from state-level law enforcement to federal legislation.
Strange first signaled his intentions on November 22, 2016, stating that seeking the seat was "the right thing" for him to do. By December 6, he officially announced his candidacy, emphasizing his commitment to protecting conservative values. His early campaign efforts were successful in terms of fundraising, with his federal campaign committee reporting over $309,000 raised by the end of December 2016.
The Appointment Process
Governor Bentley conducted a rigorous selection process, interviewing a total of 20 candidates to fill the vacancy. The interviews took place in waves throughout December 2016 and early January 2017. The pool of candidates included high-profile figures such as Chief Justice Roy Moore, Representative Mo Brooks, and various state legislators and justices.
Strange was interviewed in the second wave of candidates, alongside others including U.S. Representative Martha Roby and Representative Gary Palmer. By February 2, 2017, Governor Bentley narrowed the field to six finalists: Robert Aderholt, Del Marsh, Luther Strange, Jim Byard, Connie Rowe, and Perry Hooper Jr.
Following the official confirmation of Jeff Sessions on February 8, 2017, Governor Bentley appointed Luther Strange to the Senate on February 9. Bentley cited Strange's qualifications and qualities as the primary reasons for his selection.
Key Facts
- Appointed by: Governor Robert Bentley on February 9, 2017.
- Predecessor: Jeff Sessions, who became U.S. Attorney General.
- Fundraising: Raised over $309,000 in the initial weeks of his campaign.
- Political Stance: Strong advocate for conservative values and opponent of Obama-era regulations.
- Election Outcome: Defeated by Roy Moore in the 2017 runoff election.
Political Reaction and Controversy
The appointment received strong support from Republican figures such as Karl Rove and Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, as well as conservative groups like the NRA. Analysts noted that Strange's record as state attorney general—which included fighting the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), transgender bathroom directives, and federal environmental regulations—aligned closely with the ideology of Jeff Sessions.
However, the appointment was not without controversy. Some Republican critics suggested a link between Strange's appointment and his previous request to delay impeachment proceedings against Governor Bentley. State officials, including State Auditor Jim Zeigler and representatives Ed Henry and Allen Farley, expressed concerns regarding potential collusion.
These claims were disputed by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Mike Jones Jr. and House Speaker Mac McCutcheon, who maintained that the appointment was made in good faith. Strange himself denied that his office had ever investigated the governor, defending the conduct of the Attorney General's office.
Senate Tenure and Committee Work
Strange was sworn in on February 9, 2017, by Senate President pro tempore Orrin Hatch. During his time in the Senate, he was among 22 senators who urged President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement.
His legislative focus was distributed across several key committees, where he worked on issues ranging from rural development to national security.
| Committee | Subcommittee / Role |
|---|---|
| Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry | Chair of Nutrition, Agricultural Research and Specialty Crops; Member of Rural Development and Energy; Conservation, Forestry and Natural Resources |
| Armed Services | Readiness and Management Support; Seapower |
| Budget | Member |
| Energy and Natural Resources | Energy; Public Lands, Forests and Mining; Water and Power |
The 2017 Special Election
Although Governor Bentley initially suggested the special election for the remainder of the term would occur in 2018, it was ultimately held in December 2017. Strange faced a challenging campaign against former Alabama Supreme Court judge Roy Moore.
Strange finished second in the initial contest. In the runoff election held on September 26, 2017, Roy Moore defeated Strange with 54.89% of the vote compared to Strange's 45.11%. Moore subsequently lost the general election on December 12 to Democratic nominee Doug Jones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Luther Strange appointed to the U.S. Senate?
He was appointed by Governor Robert Bentley to fill the vacancy created when Senator Jeff Sessions was nominated as the United States Attorney General.
What were the main controversies surrounding his appointment?
Some critics alleged collusion, suggesting the appointment was linked to Strange's request to delay impeachment proceedings against Governor Bentley.
Which committees did Luther Strange serve on?
He served on the Committees on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry (where he chaired the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Agricultural Research and Specialty Crops), Armed Services, Budget, and Energy and Natural Resources.
Did Luther Strange win the special election to keep his seat?
No, he was defeated by Roy Moore in the September 26, 2017, runoff election with 45.11% of the vote.
What was Strange's stance on the Paris Agreement?
Strange was one of 22 senators who signed a letter urging President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement.