MONTGOMERY, AL – Governor Kay Ivey addressed the Alabama Legislature, delivering her State of the State address in front of a gathering that included Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth, President Pro Tem Greg Gudger, Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon, Chief Justice Tommy Stewart, and other distinguished guests. The speech was a reflection of Alabama’s achievements over the past years and a roadmap for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The Governor began her speech by highlighting the state’s diverse regions, from the mountains in the north to the Gulf of Mexico in the south, underscoring the strength and unity of Alabama’s people. She proudly asserted that the state is, “the best state in which to live, work, and raise a family,” and emphasized the resilience and determination of Alabamians. She reminded the audience that Alabama has historically overcome obstacles and continues to excel in areas previously considered challenges.
Governor Ivey celebrated recent achievements in education, notably Alabama’s improvements in literacy and math scores. She commended the state’s literacy efforts, particularly the Alabama Literacy Act, which has led to higher reading scores among 4th graders across the state. “Our students, teachers, and families are changing the narrative when it comes to education in Alabama,” said Ivey, referencing the state’s movement away from past rankings near the bottom in education to now being on a path of success. She also highlighted the importance of the CHOOSE Act, an education savings account program designed to provide families with more educational options.
Ivey also focused on the state’s economic progress, announcing that over $55 billion has been invested into Alabama since her tenure began, resulting in the creation of more than 93,000 jobs. She praised the state’s infrastructure projects, noting that nearly 500 road and bridge projects are underway thanks to the Rebuild Alabama initiative. Additionally, she shared that Alabama is leading the nation in broadband expansion, with 200 projects that will connect more than 142,000 homes to high-speed internet.
The Governor expressed her unwavering commitment to improving public safety, stressing the importance of backing law enforcement and combating inner-city gun violence. She endorsed a new package of bills designed to support police officers and address the rise in violent crime, particularly in urban areas. Ivey also reiterated her support for President Donald Trump’s initiatives to secure the nation’s southern border, and pledged Alabama’s continued readiness to assist with border security efforts.
Governor Ivey’s address was filled with references to both current and future initiatives aimed at improving the state’s infrastructure, education, economy, and safety. She concluded her speech by emphasizing Alabama’s momentum, saying, “The state of our state is strong, and opportunity abounds for all of Alabama.”
While Governor Ivey’s speech painted a picture of progress, it also underscored that there is much work to be done. From strengthening the workforce and improving educational outcomes to ensuring the safety of its citizens, Alabama is poised for another year of development and growth, with the governor’s leadership guiding the way.
The legislative session is now underway, and it is clear that Governor Ivey intends to build on the state’s achievements while tackling the challenges ahead. With both bipartisan support and a focus on core Alabama values, the 2025 State of the State address set the stage for continued progress in the Heart of Dixie.
