BREAKING 🔔🚨 Former Deputy Defeats Longtime Lee County Sheriff in Alabama Republican Primary

OPELIKA, Ala. — Cameron “Cam” Hunt, a former Lee County sheriff’s deputy and U.S. Marine veteran, has narrowly defeated seven-term incumbent Sheriff Jay Jones in the Republican primary for Lee County Sheriff, according to unofficial election results from the May 19, 2026 vote.

 

Hunt received 9,301 votes (approximately 51%) to Jones’ 8,994 votes (49%), ending Jones’ nearly 30-year tenure in the office. The race drew significant attention due to its contentious nature, including Jones’ decision to terminate Hunt last fall shortly after Hunt announced his candidacy.

 

A central campaign issue was the Lee County Sheriff’s Office participation in the federal 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for immigration enforcement functions. Hunt criticized the incumbent for not joining the program, arguing it represented a failure of leadership on border security and public safety. Jones defended his office’s record of cooperation with federal authorities through other channels, stating that non-participation in 287(g) had not hindered deportations of individuals involved in serious crimes.

 

The primary victory positions Hunt as the Republican nominee for the general election. Political observers view the outcome as reflective of voter priorities in parts of Alabama regarding immigration enforcement and support for policies aligned with stricter border measures.

 

Jones, who first took office in 1998, had faced no serious challenge in previous cycles. The campaign included public exchanges between the candidates over law enforcement practices and departmental decisions. Hunt emphasized his commitment to enhanced collaboration with federal immigration authorities if elected.

 

This result adds to a series of local races in Alabama where candidates advocating for stronger partnerships with ICE have gained traction. As the state prepares for the November general election, the Lee County contest highlights ongoing debates at the local level about balancing community policing with federal immigration priorities.

 

Analysts note that while primary results indicate shifts in some Republican strongholds, general election dynamics in Alabama typically favor GOP nominees. Further details on voter turnout and final certified results are expected in the coming days from the Alabama Secretary of State’s office.