David Wheeler (Alabama politician)

David W. Wheeler
Born	(1950-01-11) 11 January 1950 Jemison, Alabama, U.S.
Died	9 March 2022(2022-03-09) (aged 72)
Occupation(s)	Entrepreneur, politician
Years active	1972–2022
Known for	Member of the Alabama House of Representatives from the 47th district (2018–2022)

David W. Wheeler (January 11, 1950 – March 9, 2022) was an American entrepreneur and legislator who represented Alabama's 47th district in the Alabama House of Representatives from 2018 until his passing. He was affiliated with the Republican Party.

Education and early career

A native of Jemison, Alabama, Wheeler obtained a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Montevallo in 1972, followed by an MBA from Samford University in 1976. Beginning in 2008, he served on the board of trustees at the University of Montevallo.

After completing his graduate studies, Wheeler earned certification as a management accountant and dedicated 29 years to Alabama Power. Between 1972 and 1988, he managed federal affairs from Washington, D.C., before advancing through various leadership positions. Upon retiring in 2001, he held the role of director overseeing accounting, finance, and regulatory services, acting as a liaison with the Alabama Public Service Commission. Additionally, he led Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Inc. as president for three years.

Wheeler was engaged in several business groups, including serving as president of the Birmingham chapter of the U.S. Jaycees. He also contributed as a board member for both the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Jefferson County Citizens Supervisory Committee.

Political career

Wheeler’s political involvement began with his tenure as chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party and membership on the Alabama Republican Party State Executive Committee.

In December 2013, he entered the race for the Alabama House seat representing the 47th district, challenging incumbent Jack D. Williams in the 2014 Republican primary. Presenting himself as an outsider with established party leadership credentials, Wheeler was defeated, securing 40% compared to Williams' 60%.

In February 2015, Wheeler was elected treasurer of the Alabama Republican Party, drawing on his experience at Alabama Power. During his term, he advocated for legalizing gambling to help resolve state budget challenges and pushed for eliminating state control over retail alcohol sales.

After Williams retired in 2017, Wheeler pursued the 47th district seat once more. Running unopposed in the primary, he won the general election against Democrat Jim Toomey with a 54% majority.

As a legislator, Wheeler promoted term limits by introducing proposals to restrict legislative tenure to two terms; however, none progressed past committee review. His committee assignments included Commerce and Small Business, Jefferson County Legislation, and Local Legislation.

Wheeler opposed COVID-19 restrictions that he believed unfairly harmed small businesses and introduced HB108 in 2021 to create a Jefferson County Citizens Health Advisory Board to counsel the Board of Health. He also played a role in passing legislation granting state election officials increased discretion in appointing poll workers across precincts.

At the time of his death in 2022, Wheeler was running unopposed for re-election to his seat in the Alabama House.

Personal life and death

Wheeler was married to Diane Reeves Wheeler and resided in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Together, they had a daughter named Jessica. The couple actively participated in the All Saints Episcopal Church located in Homewood, Alabama. Wheeler passed away on March 9, 2022, at the age of 72; the cause of death was not made public.