Riley's running

Gov. Riley announced Saturday that he is running for re-election.

He came out swinging against Roy Moore, his opponent in the Republican primary:

"I have never, and I never will use my faith or belief in almighty God for political purposes," Riley told supporters invited to his 61st birthday party Saturday at the Barber Motorsports Museum in Leeds.

"Some say they can no longer acknowledge God in government," said Riley. "I think that's sad because I acknowledge him every day - in speeches, in the office, in meetings, schools and churches. We can all do that every day in the way we live our lives." The comment drew thunderous applause.

...cites Alabama's above-average economic growth and his record for making government more honest and accountable:

He also cited a list of economic accomplishments such as increasing median income, reducing unemployment and turning a state deficit he inherited into a record surplus. The state is required by law to balance its budgets.

"In the last three years we've added 50,000 new jobs and more than 500 companies have located or expanded in Alabama," Riley said. "Today, our economy is one of the strongest and best in the nation."

Another of Riley's re-election themes was his administration's efforts to make state government more efficient, honest and accountable.

"Today, we are operating the most open, honest and transparent government in the history of out state," he said.

State Sen. Harri Anne Smith, R-Slocomb, said she will decide in December whether to join Riley and Moore in seeking the Republican nomination.

The latest Mobile Register-USA poll shows Riley with a 19-point lead over Moore among likely Republican voters.