Senator to switch parties, run for Congress

MONTGOMERY - Democratic state Sen. Tom Butler, of Madison, said he will switch political parties and run for Congress in the district across north Alabama, the Senate minority leader said Tuesday.

"He told me he will switch to the Republican Party and run for Congress," Senate Minority Leader Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, said.

Butler would not confirm or deny Waggoner's contention but said he is considering running for the Fifth District seat. The seat is held by U.S. Rep. Bud Cramer, D-Huntsville, who has said he isn't seeking a 10th term.

"I'm looking at running as it's something I've wanted to do for a long time," said Butler, a resident of Madison and a pharmacist.

He said he has to work out a leave of absence with his employer and must consider his family's opinions, line up financing and consider the effect on his Senate district.

Butler is one of 35 state senators in a legislative session that won't end until May 19, about three weeks before the June 3 primary date.

Butler may announce his plans Friday in Huntsville where Republican Gov. Bob Riley plans an appearance. Riley wouldn't comment on Butler, who said the GOP has been trying to recruit him for decades.

Butler is one of the dissident Democrat state senators who votes with the minority Republican bloc. If he switches parties, the Senate would have 21 Democrats and 14 Republicans, but it would not change the voting dynamics of the body.

In the Republican primary, Huntsville attorney Ray McKee Jr. already filed his qualification papers. The 1994 and 1996 GOP nominee, Wayne Parker, said he's running, too.

On the Democratic side, state Rep. John Robinson, D-Scottsboro, said he's looking at lining up campaign money.

State Sen. Parker Griffith, D-Huntsville, said he's definitely running.

State Rep. Tammy Irons, D-Florence, said she is still considering running. "I am talking to people in Washington and Montgomery," she said. "I'll know in a couple of days."

Cramer, since 1991, has served the district that includes Colbert, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, and Jackson counties and the Decatur area of Morgan County.

Qualifying for the June 3 Democrat and Republican primaries ends April 4. The general election is Nov. 4.

Dana Beyerle can be reached at (334) 264-6605 or dtb12345@aol.com.