Rep. Blake Moore (R-Ala.) and Navy SEAL veteran Jared Hudson are competing Tuesday in the Alabama Senate GOP runoff to become the Republican nominee for the seat being vacated by Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R).

Moore, a two-term congressman representing Alabama's 2nd District, advanced to the runoff after failing to secure more than half of the primary vote last month. Hudson, a former Navy SEAL who has never held elected office, also qualified for Tuesday's contest.

What the Left Is Saying

Alabama Democrats are watching the GOP race closely as they prepare for their own general election matchup. The Democratic primary between attorney Everett Weiss and business owner Dakarai Lariett also advanced to a runoff Tuesday.

Democratic strategists argue that regardless of which Republican wins, the seat remains competitive in the general election. "Alabama voters deserve a senator who will fight for expanding healthcare access and protecting Social Security," said a spokesperson for the Alabama Democratic Party in a statement. The party has not yet endorsed in its own primary race.

What the Right Is Saying

Moore has secured key endorsements heading into Tuesday's contest, most notably from President Trump, who threw his support behind the congressman early in the primary cycle. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) has also backed Moore's campaign.

"Blake Moore has consistently delivered for Alabama families," read a statement from the Moore campaign. "He understands the issues that matter most to Alabamians: securing our border, supporting our military, and cutting taxes." Hudson's campaign has highlighted his national security background as a contrast to career politicians, arguing he would bring fresh perspectives to Washington.

What the Numbers Show

According to initial primary results from last month, neither Moore nor Hudson secured the 50 percent threshold needed to avoid a runoff. The two candidates are competing for the right to face whichever Democrat emerges victorious in Tuesday's Democratic runoff.

Tuberville first won the seat in 2020, defeating incumbent Sen. Doug Jones (D). Polls closed at 7 p.m. EDT on Tuesday evening.

The Bottom Line

The winner of Tuesday's GOP runoff will become the frontrunner for Alabama's open Senate seat, which has been held by Republicans since 1985 when Richard Shelby switched parties. Whoever prevails will be heavily favored in the November general election in this traditionally Republican-leaning state.

However, both candidates must first get through Tuesday's contest before turning their attention to the general election campaign.