The No.1 issue: How Figures, Dobson view the economy in Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District

Consumer and producer price indexes are on the decline, fuel prices have dropped, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average is hitting record highs. While these trends suggest a positive economic outlook for an incumbent presidency, political perceptions diverge sharply, especially among Republican voters who view inflation as a critical issue.

A recent Gallup poll indicates that the economy is the top concern for a majority of voters, highlighting its significance in the current campaign. In Alabama’s 2nd congressional district, candidates are echoing these sentiments, with the local economy, characterized by a higher-than-average poverty and unemployment rate, at the forefront of their campaigns.

Republican candidate Caroleene Dobson is emphasizing that inflation is the most pressing challenge for voters in Alabama and beyond. During a recent debate hosted by AL.com and AARP, she linked various concerns to the economic climate under President Biden, citing rising grocery prices and medical costs. 

“Are we better off than we were four years ago?” Dobson asked, channeling Ronald Reagan’s famous debate line. “I’ve yet to find a person who answered that question, ‘Yes.’”

However, Democratic candidate Shomari Figures argues that the soaring costs are not solely the result of Biden's policies, but rather issues inherited from former President Trump. “This administration has worked hard to prevent a fiscal cliff,” Figures stated.

Dobson attributes high living costs to “excessive government spending,” claiming it acts as a hidden tax on Alabamians. While inflation peaked in 2022, it has since decreased, though some essential items, like eggs, have seen recent price spikes due to a bird flu outbreak.

The economy remains a strong point for Republicans ahead of the November 5 election. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Trump leading among voters who prioritize economic issues, with 46% believing he is better equipped to handle the economy compared to 38% favoring Vice President Kamala Harris.

“Families in the 2nd congressional district are experiencing sticker shock at the grocery store,” Dobson said. “It costs twice as much to fill a grocery cart half as full. While gas prices are down, they will soar again without energy independence.”

Figures contends that the federal government has a responsibility to manage the economic challenges it can control. He highlighted the pandemic's impact on the economy, leading to job losses and supply chain disruptions. “Families have suffered the most,” he said, emphasizing ongoing job growth and a booming stock market.

Dobson criticized overregulation, pledging to support the restoration of Trump’s Regulatory Bill of Rights if elected. She also advocates for eliminating the federal income tax on tip wages and expanding Alabama’s exemption on overtime pay at the national level.

Figures, in contrast, supports a fair regulatory environment and investments in small businesses, childcare, and technology. He criticized Dobson, claiming she is out of touch with the realities of voters in their rural, predominantly Black district.

On healthcare, Figures backs the Inflation Reduction Act, which reduces prescription drug costs and includes significant federal spending. While Dobson acknowledges some merits of the act, she opposes provisions that might raise premiums for retirees, stating, “Making the blanket statement that it has reduced healthcare costs is a misnomer.”

Figures advocates for Medicaid expansion to address hospital closures and improve healthcare access, arguing it would enhance life expectancy in a district where it is significantly lower than the national average.

Both candidates agree on the importance of workforce development. Figures supports partnerships with educational institutions to ensure residents have the skills needed for local job opportunities. He stressed the need for public-private partnerships to create a well-trained workforce.

Dobson praises Alabama’s existing workforce development programs, claiming the state is a national leader in this area and pointing to its low unemployment rate as evidence of success.

Overall, both candidates are focused on the economy and its impact on their constituents, though they propose different solutions and strategies to address the challenges facing the region.