MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh is stepping down as president of the Alabama Public Service Commission to take on a key role within the Trump administration. She will become Alabama’s state director for rural development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a position that highlights Alabama’s outsized influence in national agricultural policy and its strong support for former President Donald Trump.
Cavanaugh, who has led the PSC since 2012 and was first elected to the commission in 2010, announced her resignation after the USDA confirmed her new appointment. She previously served as chair of the Alabama Republican Party and deputy chief of staff for former Gov. Bob Riley.
During her time at the PSC, Cavanaugh was known for efforts to expand rural broadband, increase access to natural gas for Alabama’s poultry farmers and oppose federal energy mandates. While her work brought new infrastructure projects to rural communities, she also faced criticism from watchdog groups and environmental advocates.
Some critics said the commission under Cavanaugh did not do enough to address high utility rates and questioned her statements about utility profits. In 2023, the Energy and Policy Institute reported that Alabama Power’s profits remained high under her watch, contradicting some of her public statements. Cavanaugh declined interview requests from local media regarding customer complaints about utility rates.
Cavanaugh’s appointment to the USDA spotlights the close relationship between Alabama’s political leadership and the Trump administration. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt praised the selection, calling Cavanaugh a champion for rural and agricultural communities. Alabama Farm Bureau President Jimmy Parnell also commended her leadership.
Gov. Kay Ivey is expected to appoint a replacement to the PSC. Cavanaugh said she does not plan to run for lieutenant governor in 2026.
Her transition to the USDA reflects Alabama’s continued prominence in Trump-aligned politics and underscores the state’s focus on rural development and agricultural support as key priorities.