Jared Hudson’s career has taken him from the battlefields as a Navy SEAL to covert missions with law enforcement. Now, he is stepping into the political arena, and his next target has the whole state of Alabama watching.
Hudson, who founded a nonprofit to combat human trafficking, is seeking a U.S. Senate seat in Alabama, a move that has sparked major conversation across the political spectrum. According to Fox News, Hudson’s campaign is rooted in border security, conservative values, and his experience fighting child sex trafficking.
As Alabama’s 2026 Senate contest heats up following Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s gubernatorial announcement, Hudson’s entrance brings a unique background and a focus on law-and-order issues that resonate with many state voters. But his campaign is not without criticism and tough questions about the scope of his nonprofit’s work, his political platform, and his outsider status.
From battlefield to Alabama politics
Hudson spent years as a Navy SEAL, serving in high-risk operations before returning home to focus on fighting human trafficking. His nonprofit, Covenant Rescue Group, works alongside law enforcement to train officers and conduct sting operations targeting those who exploit children and adults for sex.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Hudson described his nonprofit’s main mission as training and supporting law enforcement to apprehend those seeking to “buy or sell kids for sex.” He also maintains active law enforcement credentials with the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, lending credibility to his anti-trafficking work.
Sen. Tuberville’s decision to run for Alabama governor instead of reelection has created a rare open Senate seat, drawing attention from several high-profile Republicans. Hudson’s campaign is positioning itself as a voice for border security and traditional Christian values—key issues for conservative voters in the state.
Divisive agenda sparks debate
Hudson’s platform, as articulated in a post on X, includes securing the southern border, opposing “the woke agenda,” and defending Christian values. Such rhetoric has won him supporters among Alabama’s base but has also drawn criticism from political opponents who see his positions as polarizing.
He addressed the controversial “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which recently passed the House, indicating that he would support it in the Senate to prevent tax hikes tied to the expiration of the Trump tax cuts. This stance further aligns him with fiscal conservatives and supporters of President Trump’s economic policies.
When questioned about U.S. foreign policy, Hudson was clear: “I’m not for any new unnecessary wars,” he told Fox News Digital, emphasizing his own combat experience and the toll it takes on service members and families. He said he supports actions that “increase national security,” including backing key allies like Israel and Ukraine, but only as long as American interests are prioritized.
Allies, critics, and the road ahead
Hudson’s candidacy has drawn praise from notable conservatives, including Rep. Eli Crane, R-Ariz., who served with Hudson in the SEALs. Crane expressed support on X, saying: “Really glad to see men like Jared jumping into one of the toughest fights on earth. I served with Jared at Team 3. He is a very good man, who loves the Lord and his family.”
Despite this backing, Hudson faces skepticism from critics who question whether his experience in special operations and law enforcement translates to federal policymaking. Some argue that his outsider appeal may not be enough to tackle complex legislative issues in Washington.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, also a Republican, has entered the race, signaling a potentially fierce primary battle. The race is expected to draw national attention as conservatives seek to maintain control of the seat and shape the state’s future direction.
Government size and national priorities
Hudson is vocal about his desire to shrink the federal government, stating that “decreasing the size of government” is “vitally important.” He believes too much government intervention stifles individual freedom and economic growth, a stance that aligns with the House Freedom Caucus and many grassroots conservatives.
On international alliances, Hudson supports continued U.S. involvement in NATO but insists that America’s partners need to contribute more. He believes the U.S. should not bear the “full burden” of the alliance, a refrain echoed by many conservatives concerned about foreign entanglements.
Hudson’s campaign is also closely watched by those who support a strong national defense but are wary of additional military engagements. His promise to focus on “whatever is gonna increase national security” is seen as a pragmatic but cautious approach.
