MONTGOMERY – Public Service Commissioner Jeremy Oden will announce his intent to seek nomination for Alabama Public Service Commission Place 1 on Saturday, June 29, at his home in Eva.
Oden was appointed by Gov. Robert Bentley on Dec. 3, 2012, filling the vacated seat of Commissioner Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh. Cavanaugh was elected PSC president in November 2012.
“It has been an honor to serve on the PSC, for which I thank Governor Bentley for appointing me to the position. Now I go before all of the people of this great state to seek their vote in 2014,” Oden said.
“I will continue to fight for a fair and open Public Service Commission, where the people have access, conservative business practices take place and economic development continues to create and maintain jobs.”
In December at Oden’s swearing in ceremony, Gov. Bentley said, “I’ve known Jeremy for many years, and I know him to be a dedicated public servant who wants the best for the people of Alabama. I approached him about serving as a commissioner because of that dedication to public service. He will represent the needs of consumers in a fair and responsible manner. People across the state will benefit from his service on the commission.”
Oden, who has served as a commissioner for less than a year, said he has learned a lot during his short term. His involvement in upcoming federal regulations and understanding of the energy industry in the state makes his re-election crucial for the people of Alabama. His self-proclaimed vocal approach when dealing with issues concerning Alabama and the nation as a whole shows his commitment to the public.
“The PSC is more than energy. We monitor the safety of railroads and gas pipelines, and we regulate telephone companies and water authorities. I’ve repeatedly said that our state and our nation must be aware of the importance in the affordability and reliability of energy. We all want cheap energy, but we also expect the lights to come on when a switch is flipped,” Oden said. “As commissioner, I will do all I can to foster economic development by keeping energy costs down to continue to attract and retain industry throughout the state.”
The election will follow the state election cycle in 2014, with a primary set for June and general election in November.
Brief Bio
Before serving as PSC Commissioner, Oden represented the people of District 11 in the Alabama House of Representatives. A lifelong Republican, Oden was first elected to the House in 1998.
Prior to public office, Oden worked in the financial industry as a branch manager and vice president for Eva Bank in Cullman County.
He is married to Samantha Nelson Oden, and is the father to Anika Oden. Oden was a small business owner, primarily involved in the construction industry. He is an ordained minister at Abundant Grace Church in Cullman, and has a bachelor’s degree from Asbury College.