Alabama Rep. Debbie Wood Resigns from Lee-Chambers Seat July 31

Alabama State Rep. Debbie Wood (R-Valley), who has served portions of Lee and Chambers counties in House District 38 since 2018, announced her resignation effective July 31, 2025, due to a family move.[1][2][3][4] Wood cited her husband's new job in Florida's panhandle, with the family planning to reside near the Alabama-Florida line, violating state law requiring legislators to live in their districts.[1] As vice chair of the House County and Municipal Government Committee, Wood leaves a key role in local governance debates.[4] House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) praised Wood's tenure, calling her 'a great member' whose 'leadership' will be missed and wishing her family well.[1] Among her legislative highlights, Wood sponsored a 2024 bill granting Alabama teachers paid parental leave, advancing family-friendly policies in education.[1] Her departure from the Republican stronghold district, encompassing Valley, Smiths Station and Lanett areas, opens the seat amid the 2026 cycle. Gov. Kay Ivey will call a special election for District 38 following Wood's exit, with the winner seated months before the May 19, 2026, primary.[1][2] A 2018 constitutional amendment mandates that vacancies after October 1 in a term's third year remain empty until the next election, but Wood's July timing prompts the special vote.[1][2] Two Republicans, Kristin Nelson of Lanett and Micah Messer of Smiths Station—who challenged Wood in 2022—are vying in the regular race.[1]