Political Newcomer for the Alabama Public Service Commission has Coal Miners' Well-Being in Mind.

Stephen Evans, a retirement plan adviser from Dothan, announced that he will be making his first bid for public office in the PSC race. Last week, former Greene County Commission Chairman Chris "Chip" Beeker announced his candidacy for the same seat.

They will meet in the Republican primary in June. Cook is seeking re-election and has no announced Democratic opposition.

The candidate said the PSC should do more lobbying in Washington on national utility issues, such as opposing cap-and-trade legislation that he said would lead to higher electric rates for Alabama Power Co. and fewer jobs for Alabama coal miners.

"We've got to make sure we have conservative PSC members who continuously lobby Congress on behalf of the consumers," he said.

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Alabama Coal Mines