| Secretary of State of Alabama | |
|---|---|
since January 16, 2023 | |
| Type | Secretary of State |
| Term length | 4 years |
| Constituting instrument | Sections 114, 118, 132, and 134 of the Alabama Constitution and throughout The Code of Alabama |
| Formation | 1818 |
| First holder | Henry Hitchcock |
| Website | www |
The secretary of state of Alabama is one of the constitutional officers of the U.S. state of Alabama. The office actually predates the statehood of Alabama, dating back to the Alabama Territory.[1] From 1819 to 1901,[1] the secretary of state served a two-year term until the State Constitution was changed to set the term to four years. Up until 1868 the secretary of state was elected by the Alabama Legislature, but is now popularly elected.[1] The terms and over 1,000 duties of the office are defined by Sections 114, 118, 132, and 134 of the Alabama Constitution and throughout the Code of Alabama.[2]
The secretary of state must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least seven years, an Alabama state resident for at least five years, and a registered voter. The secretary of state and governor are on the same election cycle, and may only serve two consecutive terms; to hold the office for more terms, the office must be vacated for at least one term. The governor may appoint a replacement secretary of state in the case of resignation or death.