Birmingham Residents Prepare for November 5 Election as Probate Judge Race Intensifies

Birmingham Residents Gear Up for Election: Probate Judge Race Heats Up

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — With just 16 days remaining until the November 5 general election, Birmingham residents are keenly focused on the crucial Race for the Place Two Probate Judge in Jefferson County. This role carries significant responsibilities, including overseeing a range of cases from adoptions to elections, making it essential for the candidates to connect with the community.

Meet the Candidates

This year, the candidates vying for the position are Joel Blankenship, a Republican, and Jameria Moore, a Democrat. Both candidates bring considerable legal experience to the table, and they highlight their qualifications as pivotal to their election ambitions.

“I’ve been practicing law in the probate courts since 2006,” Moore said in an interview, emphasizing her long-standing commitment to the community. “My first case was filed in the probate court. I have a passion for the people of this community. I’ve been working in Jefferson County all my life. I’m from Birmingham.”

Blankenship, echoing the importance of experience, stated, “It’s really a court of the people. It’s a court that deals with all aspects from adoptions to estates and death, and to take care of those that need care—whether it’s mental health commitments, conservatorships, or guardianships.”

The Role of Probate Judge

One of the notable parts of a probate judge’s role involves overseeing elections in the county. Both candidates express their dedication to ensuring fair and accessible voting for all residents.

“We want to ensure that there’s accessible polling places for everyone who can get there,” Moore emphasized. “We need to make voting easier, not harder.”

Blankenship added, “I want to ensure that elections are conducted correctly and transparently. The most important thing is educating the public. Nowadays, there’s so much misinformation about elections, so we need to show them all that’s happening.”

Adoptions: A Personal Connection

Another significant aspect of the probate judge’s duties includes handling adoptions. This issue resonates deeply with both candidates, with Blankenship sharing a personal connection to the process.

“My parents adopted me in Jefferson County Probate Court, Place Two actually,” Blankenship recalled. “Just the ability to be a part of that process in the future would bring joy. I want to help other families experience that same happiness.”

Moore similarly noted her extensive experience in this arena. “I have filed numerous adoptions and have worked with agencies to unite families,” she said. “We need to ensure that individuals are placed in families that can raise them appropriately.”

Community Engagement

As the election approaches, community engagement remains crucial for both candidates. They plan to continue reaching out to voters in Birmingham and surrounding areas to discuss their platforms and experiences.

With the general election just around the corner, the Place Two Probate Judge candidates are actively encouraging residents to become informed voters. The election gives the community a chance to choose a candidate who will address matters that deeply affect families and individuals throughout Jefferson County.

The upcoming election on November 5 will certainly shape the future of Birmingham, particularly in the Probate Court, where the decisions made can have lasting implications for countless residents.