ANNISTON, AL — Jackson Hodges has formally announced his candidacy for Calhoun County Commissioner, District 1, outlining a platform focused on public safety, infrastructure, and quality-of-life improvements across central Calhoun County.
In his announcement, Hodges said he is seeking the District 1 seat after more than 15 years of preparation for public service. The district includes West Anniston, Blue Mountain, Hobson City, Lenlock, McClellan, Pelham Heights, and the Thankful community. Hodges is running in the Republican primary scheduled for May 19, 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026.
A 2017 graduate of Birmingham-Southern College with a degree in political science, Hodges said he returned to Anniston after college to serve the community where he was raised. Since 2019, he has worked in nonprofit and community development roles, participating in more than 100 service projects across Calhoun County. According to Hodges, those projects have ranged from small business grant initiatives to community-based home repair efforts.
Hodges’ professional background includes public-sector communications and community engagement, work he said emphasized ethics, transparency, and accountability. In his announcement, he stated that those principles would guide his approach if elected to county office.
Central to Hodges’ campaign platform is what he described as the “Four B’s”: blight, barks, bugs, and bullets. The framework prioritizes addressing neglected properties, animal safety and welfare, mosquito control, and gun violence. Hodges said addressing these issues is necessary to create conditions that allow economic development and neighborhood stability to follow.
He emphasized the importance of small business growth, youth development, and community safety, noting that improvements in these areas depend on addressing fundamental concerns first. Hodges also stated that his campaign will explore partnerships with other local governments, pursue matching funds for targeted initiatives, and advance policies intended to produce measurable results within District 1.
Hodges also highlighted the influence of his family in shaping his perspective on public service, noting that his children have reinforced his focus on long-term community outcomes. He referenced District 1’s historical significance — including Hobson City’s status as Alabama’s first incorporated Black town — as a reason leadership should balance respect for the past with forward-looking policy.
In his announcement, Hodges cited his grandfather, Norwood Hodges, as an inspiration for his decision to seek office, referencing advice centered on striving for meaningful change rather than maintaining the status quo.
