Economic Development

I believe all Alabamians deserve a strong economy.  That is why I will work hard every day as Alabama’s governor to:  

• Build the economy "from the ground up and middle out;"
• Grow the workforce by revitalizing manufacturing;
• Stimulate economic development with the creation of more private sector jobs;
• Offer incentives to small businesses looking to compete internationally,
• Support community development organizations that create jobs in areas where economic development is nonexistent;
• Provide internet access to all Alabamians;
• Support the creation of state and/or local trade review commissions to examine the impact future trade agreements can have on workers and communities;
• Support efforts to strengthen trade law enforcement;
• Oppose legislation which implements bilateral, regional or unilateral free trade agreements with nations who refuse to adopt internationally recognized workers’ rights and environmental standards;
• Partner with for-profit and non-profit organizations which seek to provide opportunities to improve student success and increase job acquisition following secondary and post-secondary education;
• Work with members of congress to increase the federal minimum wage to $20 by 2028 and ultimately a realistic Living Wage as there should be no reason why Alabama working families should have to live in poverty, and;
• Create jobs for disadvantaged youth by investing in a youth jobs program aimed at first generation college students.