Craig Ford is a native and lifelong resident of Gadsden. After receiving a marketing degree from Auburn University in 1991, he returned to Etowah County with a personal and professional commitment to his community. He has served as mayor of Gadsden for the past two years.
He is the co-owner of The Messenger and the owner of Ford Insurance Agency. Because of his strong focus on service, in 2000 he successfully ran for State Representative for House District 28. Ford succeeded his father, the late Representative Joe Ford, who served the district for 26 years.
Craig Ford has demonstrated both his ability and his willingness to lead in many ways. He served in the United States Army Reserve, and continues to serve today as an officer in the Alabama National Guard. In his community, Craig serves as an Associate Member of the Alabama Retired Teachers Association, is active in Church of the Highlands of Gadsden, and is a former board member of the YMCA, Break Away Ministries, and Coosa Baseball. He continues to be involved in coaching youth sports.
Craig was elected House Minority Leader by his colleagues in 2010, and re-elected in 2012 and 2014. During his time in the State Legislature, Craig Served on the House Ways and Means – Education Committee, the Rules Committee and the Commerce and Small Business Committee.
Ford’s wife, Gwen, is a teacher at Gadsden State Community College. They have two children: Jon Craig, Jr. (Jonathan) and Wells Elizabeth.
