Beason to run for Congress

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — State Sen. Scott Beason is making another run for Alabama's 6th District congressional seat, adding a high-profile tea party name to a large GOP field. Beason announced his campaign Friday, the final day to file qualifying papers. So far seven Republicans are contending for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus. Beason was behind Alabama's sweeping immigration bill, considered the toughest in the nation before it was largely gutted by the courts. He was also the sponsor of Alabama gun legislation last year. The bill pitted the National Rifle Association against business groups over the issue of guns in workplace parking lots. Beason lost a primary bid to Bachus in 2012. Beason announced last month that he is leaving the Alabama Legislature when his term ends.