The overall contraction of timber and ship-related industries has forced the district to diversify. Tourism, based on the Gulf Shores, has been the most immediate remedy. Outside Mobile, manufacturing spin-offs have emerged. Textile plants and retail outlets also provide much-needed employment in the rural areas. While traditionally Republican, the 1st's voters do not always follow the party line.
Rural counties tend to favor Democratic candidates, while Mobile residents lean slightly Republican.
Local elections can become battles over sensitive issues such as agricultural subsidies and international trade. Republicans have held the congressional seat since 1964, and the district overwhelmingly favored GOP presidential candidates in 1992 and '96. But the 1st recently helped elect a Democratic governor and attorney general.