How a college prank involving fiberglass tigers shaped the political career of Will Ainsworth
In short: Before becoming Alabama's 31st lieutenant governor, Will Ainsworth navigated a career defined by conservative advocacy and unexpected controversies. From his early days as a youth pastor to his rise in state politics, Ainsworth has consistently positioned himself as an outsider, even while managing high-stakes legislative battles and public disagreements.
Born in 1981 in Birmingham, Alabama, Will Ainsworth was raised in Boaz. His early professional life was diverse, spanning roles as a youth pastor at Grace Fellowship Presbyterian Church and as a business owner in the hunting and real estate sectors. He entered the Alabama House of Representatives in 2014, campaigning on a platform focused on job creation and limiting business regulation. During his tenure, he became a vocal advocate for conservative causes, including opposition to same-sex marriage and support for the Alabama Memorial Preservation Act of 2017, which restricted the removal of public monuments.
Ainsworth's political trajectory saw him elected lieutenant governor in 2018. His primary campaign was marked by a bitter runoff against Twinkle Cavanaugh, during which he faced unsubstantiated allegations of a petty theft conviction. Ainsworth successfully refuted these claims, clarifying that his only brush with the law involved a youthful college prank where fiberglass tigers were taken and later returned without charges. He eventually secured the office, later winning re-election in 2022 with 83% of the vote against Libertarian challenger Ruth Page-Nelson.
Throughout his time as lieutenant governor, Ainsworth has frequently challenged state leadership, including public conflicts with Governor Kay Ivey over COVID-19 mandates and pandemic preparedness. He has also been a central figure in legislative efforts ranging from abortion restrictions to the partial repeal of Alabama's grocery tax. Despite being widely viewed as a frontrunner for the 2026 gubernatorial race, Ainsworth announced in May 2025 that he would not seek the governorship, opting instead to return to the private sector after his term concludes.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Will Ainsworth
- Also: Wikidata — Will Ainsworth · CC0
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