Barry Moore

The outcome marked a disappointing finish for Marshall, whose lengthy tenure in Alabama politics was not enough to overcome Hudson's late surge in support and Moore's backing from President Donald Trump.

The race for the GOP nomination intensified in recent weeks after Hudson gained momentum in public polling, transforming what had been viewed as a two-way contest between Moore and Marshall into a competitive three-candidate battle.

Hudson's rise ultimately helped edge Marshall out of the runoff despite the attorney general's long-standing ties within Alabama Republican politics.

The Senate seat became open after Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville announced he would not seek a second term and instead would run for governor, a move that set off a closely watched contest in one of the nation's most reliably Republican states.

Tuberville did not endorse a candidate in the primary to replace him in Washington.

Moore entered the race with a significant advantage after securing Trump's early endorsement, a powerful asset in Alabama Republican politics.

The endorsement was followed by support from major conservative groups, including the Club for Growth super PAC, helping Moore build a strong financial and organizational operation, according to Politico.

Although Moore held only a modest fundraising edge over Marshall, the support from Trump and outside conservative groups helped solidify his standing among Republican primary voters.

Hudson, meanwhile, emerged as a surprise contender after gaining traction late in the campaign, capitalizing on outsider appeal and strong support among conservative grassroots voters.

The June 16 runoff is expected to determine the overwhelming favorite to win the Senate seat in the general election, given Alabama's strong Republican tilt.