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3 unusual facts about Jim Zeigler


Alabama Public Service Commission

Commissioner Jim Zeigler, following his single term on the PSC, ran for state supreme court, civil appeals court, state treasurer and state auditor, losing each by narrow margins, thus earning the nickname "Mr. 49%." He made a comeback in 2004 when he surprised the political establishment by defeating long-time Republican National Committeeman and former Chief Justice Perry O. Hooper, Sr. for Statewide Delegate to the Republican National Convention.

George Wallace, Jr.

In 1986, Wallace was elected Alabama State Treasurer, narrowly winning the Democratic Party primary and runoff over Jim Zeigler and facing no opposition in the general election.

Oak Grove, Alabama

Jim Zeigler, born in neighboring Sylacauga in 1948 and raised in Oak Grove, won the PSC seat in 1974, becoming the youngest person to hold a state office.


The Machine

It was formed by Steve Windom (later Lt. Governor), Tommy Chapman (later District Attorney), Steve "Red" Wadlington (later political campaign operative), Don Gilbert (later head of Alabama Trial Lawyers Association) and Jim Zeigler (later Public Service Commissioner).


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