Steve Raby

Raby announced his candidacy on February 9, 2010. He won the Democratic primary on June 1, 2010 against Taze Shepard, Mitchell Howie, and David Maker. By winning over 60% of the vote, no runoff was required. On August 4, Raby won the official endorsement from the Blue Dog Coalition, saying: "As I have stated throughout the campaign, my first priority as a Congressman will be to focus on jobs and growing the economy. We must balance the federal budget for our Nation to rebound economically. The Coalition is dedicated to financial stability and national security, and I will join the Blue Dogs in this bipartisan common sense effort."

As of late September 2010 Raby had raised about 20% more campaign funds than his Republican opponent, Mo Brooks.

On October 28, 2010 Raby gained the endorsement of the district's largest daily newspaper, The Huntsville Times.

Returning to Alabama in 1997, Raby joined North Alabama-based Direct Communications while continuing his public service for four years as the Chairman of the Governor’s Task Force on Military Affairs, helping to develop a strategic plan for the state to grow military presence and increase contracting potential within Alabama. He is currently the President of Huntsville Direct Communications, which specializes in public relations, management of local issues, and counseling.

As a Legislative Aide and Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Howell Heflin from 1984 until 1997, Raby worked on Northern Alabama issues such as Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal.

Stephen Walker "Steve" Raby /ˈ r eɪ b i / (born 1958) is the former 2010 Democratic nominee for U.S. Representative for Alabama's 5th congressional district.