Shay Shelnutt

Incumbent State Senator in Palmerdale, AL

Shay Shelnutt is a candidate for State Senate District 17 in Alabama State Senate District 17, Alabama — 2026 Primary Election.

Shay Shelnutt, a Republican, has represented District 17 in the Alabama State Senate since assuming office on November 5, 2014, having been elected in both 2014 and 2018. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, on September 21, 1967, he is seeking re-election to the State Senate in 2026. His legislative priorities include regulating psychoactive cannabinoids, establishing sexual risk avoidance as the K-12 sex education curriculum, and addressing dental and captive insurer regulations. He also focuses on religious instruction in public schools. He previously served on committees such as Banking and Insurance, Education and Youth Affairs, and Governmental Affairs. The primary election for his seat was canceled, and he is running in the general election.