Kenneth Paschal

Kenneth Paschal is a Republican member of the Alabama House of Representatives representing District 73, a position he has held since July 2021. Born December 9, 1966, in Tuskegee, Alabama, Paschal grew up in the small town of Eclectic in Elmore County alongside his four siblings. He graduated from Elmore County High School in 1985 as "Mr. E.C.H.S."

Paschal is notable for being the first Black Republican elected to the Alabama Legislature in nearly 140 years. His election marked a historic moment, as the previous Black Republican to serve in the state legislature was W.P. Williams, who represented Madison County from 1882 to 1884.

He resides in Pelham, Alabama, and is the father of a daughter named Abigail.

Education

Paschal studied Criminal Justice at Pierce College, where he received the National Collegiate Minority Award. He later pursued additional education at the University of Alabama, earning credits toward a Bachelor of Science degree.

Political Experience and Notable Achievements

Before entering electoral politics, Paschal accumulated significant experience in public service. He served 21 years in the United States Army, retiring in 2006 with the rank of First Sergeant. During his military career, he received eleven awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Following his military retirement, Paschal remained active in community advocacy and governance. He served as executive director of the Huntsville-based Alabama Family Rights Association and as commander of American Legion Post 555 in Pelham. He also served on the Shelby County Republican Executive Committee.

In the legislature, Paschal holds several committee positions, including Vice Chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. He also serves on the Shelby County Legislation Committee and the Education Policy Committee. In 2023, he sponsored Alabama House Bill 6, the Fundamental Parental Rights Statute, which passed the Senate unanimously and was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey. This legislation was based on an ALEC model policy recognizing fundamental parental rights.

Additionally, Paschal founded "Bridge the Gap," a community initiative, and organized the Standing United for Progress Forum to promote peace, respect, and dialogue within communities. He has served as State Director of Child Abuse Awareness for the Bubbles of Love program, organizing large statewide events for nearly a decade focused on protecting children and families from abuse.