By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor
Alabaster resident Mandie Ledkins has announced her candidacy for Alabama state Senate in District 14.
Ledkins is a lifelong Alabamian and grew up in Fort Payne and is a graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology. She is the daughter of a Vietnam War veteran. She has lived in the city of Alabaster for a decade and is a mother of four. Ledkins described herself as an activist and longtime community advocate.
“As someone who grew up in rural Alabama and has walked through both struggle and survival, I know firsthand what our communities need—and what we’re not getting,” Ledkins said. “I’m not a career politician. I’m a mother, neighbor and advocate who believes we all deserve to be seen, heard and supported.”
Ledkins is also a longtime member of the Democrat party and aims to bring greater accessibility to all citizens within her district.
“Everything begins with access,” Ledkins said. “Access to healthcare, access to housing (and) access to human dignity.”
Ledkins said that people need a leader who is “all-in” when systems are designed to keep people out.
“My campaign is about removing the barriers for many Alabama families,” Ledkins said. “When what we need is accessible to our communities, we all thrive.”
Ledkins’ campaign will focus on grassroots engagement and accessible policies with the goal of amplifying the voice of everyday Alabamians. The campaign is currently welcoming the help of volunteers, donations and opportunities to speak at events across the district.
“I am your average working-class person, who is ready for people like me and you to have a seat at the table,” Ledkins said. “Coming from a struggling family, I fought hard to get into the middle class but that dream keeps slipping away for many Alabamians.”
Ledkins shared that her background isn’t in politics but said it is in “real life” with several experiences to her name.
“I’ve worked in customer success, in tech and retail, in corporate America for 15 years,” Ledkins said. “I’ve led teams, supported clients, organized community partnerships and advocated for customers who felt ignored or pushed aside. I’ve created childcare solutions for working families, attended meetings, and have heard the real feedback.”
Those interested in learning more about Ledkins campaign may visit Mandiforalabama.com. Inquiries and appearance requests may be sent at mandieforalabama@gmail.com.
Currently, Republican Sen. April Weaver is the incumbent for Alabama state Senate District 14 after being elected into office in 2021 to fill the vacancy left by former Sen. Cam Ward.
