Republican primary candidates and Georgia Supreme Court race are important on ballots
Georgia’s elections on Tuesday are set to feature a state Supreme Court race that has ignited more passion than usual for the state’s nonpartisan judicial elections. Additionally, there is a five-way GOP primary for an open seat in the strongly Republican 3rd Congressional District situated south and west of Atlanta.
Two Democratic congressional incumbents, U.S. Reps. David Scott and Lucy McBath, are up against primary challengers in metro Atlanta districts that were redrawn by Republicans following redistricting lawsuits.
Both parties are in the process of selecting their nominees for various congressional and state legislative seats, as well as local positions such as sheriffs, district attorneys, and county commissioners.
Key Races to Watch
State Supreme Court Race:
The vote on May 21 marks the general election for judicial candidates, who run without party labels. Incumbent Justice Andrew Pinson, appointed to the nine-member court by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2022, is seeking a six-year term. He is facing off against John Barrow, a former Democratic congressman.
Barrow advocates for Georgians’ right to abortion under the state constitution, while Pinson refrains from discussing issues, emphasizing the importance of keeping the race nonpartisan. Conservatives, including Kemp, have supported Pinson, with Barrow taking legal action against a state judicial agency for violating his free speech rights.
3rd Congressional District:
Five Republicans are competing for their party’s nomination to succeed Republican U.S. Rep. Drew Ferguson, who is stepping down after four terms. Former President Donald Trump has backed his former aide Brian Jack for the seat. The GOP nominee in this strongly Republican district that stretches from Carrollton to Columbus along the Alabama border, will have a favorable position.
On the Democratic side, Val Almonord and Maura Keller are vying for their party’s nomination.
13th Congressional District:
Representative David Scott faces six Democratic challengers in the 13th District. Additionally, on the Republican side, Jonathan Chavez is running against Johsie Cruz Fletcher.
The 13th District has been significantly reconfigured in a new map, expanding into Rockdale County and parts of Newton and Gwinnett counties. Challengers have criticized Scott, saying that at 78, he is too old and out of touch.
6th Congressional District:
Lucy McBath is running in the 6th District after being shifted to this Democratic-leaning territory on the west side of Atlanta following a second redistricting. McBath, who advocates for gun control and reducing gun violence, also aims to address healthcare disparities. She is up against primary opposition from Jerica Richardson and Mandisha Thomas.
2nd Congressional District:
In the 2nd District, four Republicans are lining up to challenge 16-term Democratic incumbent Sanford Bishop Jr. Among the candidates are Wayne Johnson, Chuck Hand, Michael Nixon, and Reggie Liparoto.
14th Congressional District:
In the 14th District, four Democrats are competing for the opportunity to challenge Republican incumbent Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has no GOP opposition. The Democratic candidates are Clarence Blalock, Shawn Harris, Deric Houston, and Joseph Leigh.
Other Races:
Republican U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk faces a primary challenge from Lori Marie Pesta and Mike Pons in the 11th Congressional District. Additionally, Democrats are selecting nominees to challenge Republican incumbents in various districts across Georgia.
As the election day approaches, Georgia’s political landscape is set for an exciting and pivotal transformation. Stay tuned for the results of these key races that have the potential to shape the state’s future.
