Hightower, Barton to compete in runoff

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Officials said most of the votes have been counted in the January 29 special election for the Alabama State Senate District 35 seat.

It appears Jim Barton and Bill Hightower are headed for a runoff.

According to election officials, Hightower has received 2,560 votes and Barton has received 1,656 votes.

Officials said 68 of the 69 boxes are reporting.

Since Hightower didn’t get the 50 percent plus one majority needed a runoff will be held March 12, according to officials.

The spot was left vacant when former State Senator Ben Brooks was elected as a circuit court judge.