Bob Riley: The Exit Interview
This time next week, we’ll know whether Ron Sparks or Robert Bentley will be Alabama’s next Governor. Current Governor Bob Riley is barred from running again. The Clay County native served three terms in Congress before he was elected Governor in 2002. Riley has touted his success economic development and education reform. But, the Governor has also seen setbacks over his eight years in office, as lawmakers have been reluctant to enact tougher ethics laws. It’s an issue that’s now front and center, with the indictment of 11 people in a vote-buying scheme related to bingo. Riley sat down with WBHM’s Bradley George to talk about his time in the Governor’s Mansion. On ethics, the Governor says he’s done a lot to bring transparency to state government.
Bob Riley talks more about his time in office in this extended interview.
Auburn tabs USF’s Alex Golesh as its next coach, replacing Hugh Freeze on the Plains
The 41-year-old Golesh, who was born in Russia and moved to the United State at age 7, is signing a six-year contract that averages more than $7 million annually to replace Hugh Freeze. Freeze was fired in early November after failing to fix Auburn’s offensive issues in three seasons on the Plains.
Alabama Power seeks to delay rate hike for new gas plant amid outcry
The state’s largest utility has proposed delaying the rate increase from its purchase of a $622 million natural gas plant until 2028.
Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones announces run for Alabama governor
Jones announced his campaign Monday afternoon, hours after filing campaign paperwork with the Secretary of State's Office. His gubernatorial bid could set up a rematch with U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, the Republican who defeated Jones in 2020 and is now running for governor.
Scorching Saturdays: The rising heat threat inside football stadiums
Excessive heat and more frequent medical incidents in Southern college football stadiums could be a warning sign for universities across the country.
The Gulf States Newsroom is hiring an Audio Editor
The Gulf States Newsroom is hiring an Audio Editor to join our award-winning team covering important regional stories across Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.
Judge orders new Alabama Senate map after ruling found racial gerrymandering
U.S. District Judge Anna Manasco, appointed by President Donald Trump during his first term, issued the ruling Monday putting a new court-selected map in place for the 2026 and 2030 elections.

