Rep. Kiel: Emerging Leader in GOPAC Program

0:00You're listening to Birmingham News today, powered by the Daily News Now. Stay representative Jamie Keele from Russellville has been picked as one of 38 Republican lawmakers nationwide for GOPAC's Emerging Leaders program. This honor recognizes his potential to make a strong impact in Alabama and climb higher in Republican leadership. Nominations came from state leaders who see promise and participants like him. The program helps conservative legislators sharpen their skills to pass better laws and aim for top roles or bigger elections. GOPAC started it to build effective Republican voices at the state level. Keele is excited to connect with other conservatives across the country. He wants to share ideas on traditional values that most Alabama's support, including his successful push last year for a ban on ballot harvesting, which he believes other states should copy. GOPAC has trained leaders for nearly 50 years since its founding in 1978. He focuses on free market ideas, cutting government costs, boosting security and growing

1:02the conservative movement. Keele is finishing his second term in the House with no challenges from either party in the 2026 race. He serves as vice chair of the Ways and Means Education Committee, handling about $10.5 billion for Alabama schools from K through, 12, community colleges and universities. Outside politics, he runs Keele Equipment, a heavy machinery business across three states and lives with his wife Melissa and their three daughters. Quick thanks to today's sponsor, see the description for more. A pillow that sounds as good as it feels, bill for listening in bed, S-O-L-I-SOLYPILO.com