BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Senator Katie Britt is the first lawmaker from Alabama to deliver the response to the State of the Union since the practice began in 1966. The response put Britt in the national spotlight.
One political analyst said the Republican party is trying to win over female voters and having Britt in the national spotlight could be a way to do just that.
Britt’s response will likely elevate her on the national stage, according to Jacksonville State University political science professor Dr. Lori Owens.
Britt is a young mother and knows how things work in Washington, D.C.. She was a longtime staffer and eventual chief of staff for former Senator Richard Shelby. Owens believes Britt was chosen for this speech to try and help the GOP attract more female voters, especially those in the suburbs and younger voters, to the Republican party.
“She brings all of those things to the table and she’s very knowledgeable about the functions of Congress having worked for Senator Shelby all of those years,” Owens said. “She comes across very well with the voters and in person and on television with media.”
Owens says having Britt in the spotlight will help elevate the state as well.
Alabama GOP chairman John Wahl says Britt has been able to carve out a unique role in the party. He said Britt is making a big impact on the movers and shakers in D.C and that’s why he believes she was chosen to give the GOP response.
“She is a rock star for the Republican party of Alabama and for the Republican party nationally. She has an ability to connect with young voters, with women voters, and with minorities like no one else,” Wahl said. “I think she is the perfect voice to be on stage as she gives the rebuttal to Joe Biden and the failed policies of the Democrats,” Wahl said.
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