Richard Cox, a lifelong Baldwin County resident with deep family roots stretching back to the 1700s, has launched his campaign for Baldwin County Commission District 1, according to a news release.

Cox, a farmer, businessman and retired forestry professional, is running on a platform centered on growth management, natural resource protection and stronger support for public safety. His announcement highlighted decades of work in farming, timber, logging and land management, experience he said in the release has shaped his approach to long-term planning and stewardship.

“As Baldwin County continues to grow, we must protect the very things that make this place special,” Cox said. “God blessed us with incredible natural beauty and strong, hardworking communities. My goal is to ensure that growth never comes at the expense of our quality of life. The people who live here — the families who work, worship and pay taxes here — deserve to have their needs put first.”

Cox said his campaign will emphasize responsible development, improved infrastructure planning and support for law enforcement and first responders, per the release. He also pointed to the importance of safeguarding forests, farmland and waterways as Baldwin County remains one of Alabama’s fastest-growing regions.

“As Commissioner, I will fight every day to make life easier for the people who call Baldwin County home,” Cox said. “We need leadership that listens, leadership that values accountability and leadership that puts Baldwin County residents back in the driver’s seat. That’s the kind of Commissioner I intend to be.”

Cox has been married to his wife, Wendy, for 48 years. They have two sons, John and the late David, and three grandchildren. He has attended First Baptist Church in Bay Minette for 40 years and has served with the Baldwin County Baptist Disaster Relief Team, the Baldwin County Farm Services Agency County Committee, the Baldwin County Forestry Planning Committee and the Baldwin County Farmers Federation. He previously chaired the Alabama Farmers’ Federation Forestry Committee and served on the boards of Wheelin’ Sportsmen and the Treasure Forest Association.

Cox’s campaign said in the release that he intends to maintain open communication and accessibility throughout the election cycle, presenting himself as a public servant rather than a politician.

“It’s time for a Commission that listens to the people and makes decisions with their best interests in mind,” Cox said. “Baldwin County’s future is bright — if we protect what matters and plan responsibly for what lies ahead.”

Cox will appear on the ballot in the Republican primary on May 19, 2026. More information is available at www.VoteRichardCox.com or by contacting Jaxon Phillips at jaxon@signumstrategies.com.