Effective Date: April 16, 2026

The Friends of Rick Pate (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors and supporters (“you” or “your”) who use our website, https://www.rickpate.us/. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information in accordance with applicable laws, including those of the State of Alabama.

By using this website, you agree to the terms outlined in this Privacy Policy.

1. Information We Collect

a. Personal Information
We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, including:

• Name

• Email address

• Mailing address

• Phone number

• Employer and occupation (if provided for campaign finance compliance)

• Any information submitted through forms on our website

b. Text Messaging Opt-In Data
If you opt in to receive text messages, we may collect:

• Your mobile phone number

• Messaging preferences and consent records

c. Automatically Collected Information
We may automatically collect:

• IP address

• Browser and device type

• Pages visited and usage behavior

• Cookies and similar tracking technologies

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Communicate campaign updates, events, and volunteer opportunities

• Respond to inquiries and requests

• Process donations and maintain required campaign finance records

• Send email and SMS communications (if you opt in)

• Improve website functionality and user experience

• Comply with legal and regulatory obligations

Text Messaging Compliance:
By opting into SMS communications, you consent to receive campaign-related messages. Message and data rates may apply. You may opt out at any time by replying “STOP.”

3. Alabama Campaign Finance and Legal Compliance

In accordance with the Alabama Fair Campaign Practices Act:

• We may collect and maintain donor information such as name, address, employer, and occupation as required by Alabama law.

• Contributions may be publicly disclosed in campaign finance reports filed with the Alabama Secretary of State.

• By making a contribution, you acknowledge that your information may be included in publicly available filings as required by law.

4. Sharing of Information

• We do not sell or rent your personal information.

• We may share information:

  • As required by law or regulatory authorities

  • With service providers assisting with campaign operations (e.g., email or SMS platforms), under confidentiality obligations

Text Messaging Data:
We do not share or sell SMS opt-in data or consent with third parties, except as required by law.

5. Data Security

We implement reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information.

However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security of your data.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We may use cookies and similar technologies to:

• Analyze website traffic

• Improve functionality

• Customize user experience

You can manage cookie preferences through your browser settings.

7. Third-Party Services

Our website may link to third-party websites or use third-party tools (e.g., donation processors, analytics providers).

We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties and encourage you to review their policies.

8. Children’s Privacy

This website is not intended for individuals under 13 years of age.

We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If such data is identified, it will be removed promptly.

9. Your Rights and Choices

You may:

• Request access to your personal information

• Request corrections or updates

• Opt out of email or SMS communications at any time

To unsubscribe from emails, use the link provided in the message.
To stop text messages, reply “STOP.”

10. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

11. Contact Information

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact:

Friends of Rick Pate
PO Box 98
Lowndesboro, AL 36752
rick@rickpate.us
334-315-0902