Lawrence Keeps Alabama House Seat Despite Felony Charges
Democrat Kelvin Lawrence wins House District 69 in the general election while facing two Class C felony indictments.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Legislative Policy
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Democrat Kelvin Lawrence retained House District 69 in Tuesday's general election, defeating Republican Pendergrass with 37% of the vote. Lawrence, of Haneyville, faces two felony indictments filed in July 2024.
Why it matters
Lawrence's reelection occurs while he faces pending felony charges, raising questions about how Alabama voters weigh criminal allegations against incumbent lawmakers. The outcome also reflects the continued competitiveness of the district, which Lawrence has represented since 2014.
Lawrence received 37% of the general election vote against Republican Pendergrass, who received 63%. Both pending charges are Class C felonies, which carry prison sentences of one year and one day to 10 years.
The players
Kelvin Lawrence
Kelvin Lawrence is a Democrat who has represented Alabama House District 69 since 2014.
Kay Ivey
Kay Ivey is the Governor of Alabama, and Pendergrass previously served as her communications director.
The details
Lawrence was charged in July 2024 with second-degree forgery and second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument. The indictment alleges he falsely made, completed, or altered a builder's license with intent to defraud. Pendergrass is a Prattville attorney who previously served as communications director for Gov. Kay Ivey.
Timeline
July 2024: Lawrence charged with forgery and criminal possession offenses.
2014: Lawrence began holding the House District 69 seat.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Lawrence retains seat in the general election.
Legal Context
Class C felonies under Alabama law carry prison sentences of one year and one day to 10 years, the range that applies to the forgery and possession charges pending against Lawrence. Lawrence's reelection proceeds while these charges remain unresolved in court.
Voters in House District 69 now have a representative who will serve while facing felony charges, which may affect how constituents engage with their state legislator. The pending case could be resolved in court during Lawrence's current term.
The takeaway
Voter decisions in legislative races can hinge on factors beyond policy platforms, including pending criminal allegations against incumbents. Following court proceedings is one way residents can track how such charges are resolved.
Further reading
Explore more Alabama legislative policy coverage to see how state lawmakers are shaping the rules that govern their own elections and conduct.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 1819 News.
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Would you vote for an elected official facing pending felony charges?
