Steve Flowers, Author at The Troy Messenger

Opinion Columnists

Only one, final legislative day remains in the 2020 session

The 2020 legislative regular session is wrapping up. After this week’s two-days of meeting days, only one final legislative day remains on May 17. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, May 7, 2021 9:05 pm

Opinion Columnists

State Supreme Court often forgotten in Alabama

Our 1901 Alabama Constitution replicates the United States Constitution in designing a triumvirate of government. The Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches are designed to have ... Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, April 23, 2021 7:48 pm

Opinion Columnists

Gambling, budgets remain a priority for legislature

The Legislature is at the midway point of the 2021 Regular Legislative Session. They have used 15 days of their allotted 30-day legislative session. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, March 19, 2021 9:11 pm

Opinion Columnists

Birmingham’s inside man is Alabama’s political ‘kingmaker’

Historically, political power in the state has rested in the rural counties. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, March 12, 2021 9:05 pm

Opinion Columnists

Will Legislature allow Alabamians to vote on gambling revenue for state?

In 1998 Gov. Don Siegelman ran for governor of Alabama on a platform of proposing that his administration would enact legislation creating a state lottery. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, March 5, 2021 8:21 pm

Opinion Columnists

Reapportionment, gambling and prisons top priorities

The 2021 legislative session has begun. It will be a monumental and difficult session. Due to COVID restrictions, the logistics of just meeting will be ... Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, February 19, 2021 9:23 pm

Opinion Columnists

Outstanding class of freshman state senators

The 2021 Regular Legislative Session begins next week. Over the years I have observed some outstanding classes of freshman legislators. Some standout more than others ... Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, January 29, 2021 9:04 pm

Opinion Columnists

Outstanding Class of Freshman State Senators

The 2021 Regular Legislative Session begins next week. Over the years I have observed some outstanding classes of freshman legislators. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Wednesday, January 27, 2021 9:35 pm

Opinion Columnists

We lost some good ones this year

As is my annual ritual, my yearend column pays tribute to Alabama political legends who have passed away during the year. Read more

by Steve Flowers, Friday, January 1, 2021 9:15 pm

Opinion Columnists

GOP Senate control is critical

As this 2020 Presidential election year comes to a close, allow me to share some final thoughts on the results with you. Read more