Former U.S. Representative Jerry Carl holds a strong lead in Alabama’s 1st Congressional District Republican primary due to recent redistricting changes that cleared the way for reverted maps and prompted several top challengers, including State Representative Rhett Marques, to switch to the new 2nd District race. With the May 19 primary now featuring a narrower field of candidates remaining in District 1, Carl benefits from his prior incumbency experience, established fundraising edge, and broad local endorsements from mayors and county officials. Earlier polling showed a tight contest with Marques before the map adjustments, but those shifts have consolidated support around Carl ahead of the vote. The remaining contenders trail significantly in visibility and resources, leaving limited paths for an upset in the short timeline before ballots are cast.