Alabama House District 53

Alabama State House of Representatives, District 53 is a legislative district, now in Huntsville, that covered most of western Birmingham before 2014. In 2010 the racial make-up of district was 63% black and 30% white.

District 53 was represented by Demetrius Newton, who was elected to the seat in 1986 and re-elected five times. He died in 2013 and a special election was called to fill the remainder of his sixth term.

Redistricting following the 2010 census and approved in 2012 moved District 53 to Huntsville beginning with the 2014 general election. District 53 was absorbed into District 52, 55 and District 60

2014 special election

Candidates for the seat in the 2014 special election included Democrats Alann Johnson, Arthur Shores Lee, Demetrius Newton, Jr and Frank Topping and Republican W. A. Casey. The primary election was held on December 3, 2013 with a January 28, 2014 runoff, if needed, and a general election on March 25. If no runoff is needed, the general election would be moved to January 28.

References

• Chandler, Kim (October 10, 2013) "Four Democrats and one Republican qualify to run for Demetrius Newton's legislative seat." The Birmingham News
• Underwood, Madison (December 2, 2013) "5 candidates look to fill late Rep. Demetrius Newton's Alabama House seat in Tuesday primary." The Birmingham News