Colbert County Commissioner Tommy Barnes’ run for the U.S. House of Representatives in Alabama's 4th Congressional District, is centered on term limits, infrastructure investment, economic development, and what he describes as a need for more active federal representation.
Barnes said the district has suffered from "nearly 30 years" of inadequate federal engagement, pointing to persistent poverty, limited job growth, and a lack of high‑paying employment opportunities across Northwest Alabama.
“Our Federal Representation has been missing in action for Northwest Alabama," Barnes said. "We have way too much poverty and too few high‑paying jobs in District 4.”
Barnes highlighted several reasons he believes he is the stronger choice for the district, emphasizing hands‑on leadership and broad professional experience.
He regularly works with local leaders to pursue both short‑ and long‑term improvements and brings solutions rather than political posturing. His background includes work in energy, industrial jobs, water and wastewater operations, education, and coaching - experience he argues gives him a deeper understanding of everyday life in the district than his opponent possesses.
“It's like royalty instead of service," Barnes said of the incumbent's approach. "I'm accessible and will come to each of the 13 counties frequently to engage with educators, elected officials, and the public. It's not about photo sessions - it's about true service.”
Barnes said one of his first priorities in Congress would be introducing legislation to establish term limits.
“WE NEED TERM LIMITS," he said. "I will introduce term limit legislation - it's going to happen.”
Barnes pointed to infrastructure and connectivity as major barriers to economic growth in District 4. He said many parts of the district lack reliable internet service and even basic cell coverage, which he believes has hindered high‑tech job recruitment and public safety.
He also criticized the condition of local roads, calling for improved funding for visible center lines, road shoulders, and right‑of‑way maintenance. Counties and small municipalities, he said, deserve priority over "wasted overseas spending."
On energy policy, Barnes will advocate for the construction of small modular nuclear reactors in partnership with TVA and Alabama Power, arguing that the district needs more reliable energy production rather than "inefficient solar panels" supported by subsidies.
Barnes said the University of North Alabama and other regional institutions have not received equitable funding compared to other parts of the state. He called for stronger recruitment and support for technical and trade programs to prepare students for in‑demand jobs.
He also said District 4's natural beauty, music heritage, and textile history have been overlooked at the federal level.
"From the music capital of the world to the 'Sock Capital of the World,' our representative has not highlighted our potential," Barnes said, adding that past votes have harmed the district's textile industry. He pledged to promote tourism, music engagement, and the region's scenic assets.
Barnes criticized the closure of rural hospitals and rising insurance costs, saying Congress has failed to address long‑standing problems in rural healthcare. He argued that private equity and insurance profits should be redirected toward patient care.
He also said federal spending should prioritize American communities over foreign commitments and argued that regulatory decisions have been made without sufficient understanding of their impact on local industries.
Barnes said career politicians have grown wealthier while working families struggle, and he called for election reforms and a renewed focus on service.
“Our current workforce and union workforce are ready to make a difference," he said. "Our young people need better jobs. The political buddy system in District 4 is alive and well, and trust needs to be restored. I'm the guy to do it.”
Barnes said he plans to address these issues "over the next couple of terms" if elected, urging voters to support "a proven leader."