ATLANTA — In a highly competitive race, 22 candidates have emerged to fill the congressional seat left vacant by former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. With a diverse array of candidates from various political backgrounds, the election set for March 10 is expected to be fiercely contested, reflecting the significant shift after Greene’s controversial tenure.
The significance of this election extends beyond party affiliation; it represents a pivotal moment for Georgia voters who will determine the future direction of a district known for its strong Republican leanings. Greene’s resignation has opened the door for fresh voices and differing political ideologies, prompting a critical choice for constituents in the upcoming special election.
Key Developments
- A total of 22 candidates, including 17 Republicans, three Democrats, a Libertarian, and an independent, have qualified to run for the seat.
- The election will feature an all-party ballot on March 10, with a runoff scheduled for April 7 if no candidate secures a majority.
- Notable Republican candidates include Clay Fuller, Colton Moore, and Nicky Lama, who have significant political experience in the region.
- Shawn Harris, a retired Army general and the Democratic nominee who previously ran against Greene, is a key contender among the Democrats.
Full Report
Candidate Lineup
The race includes a mix of established politicians and newcomers. On the Republican side, Clay Fuller is notable for his previous role as district attorney and his earlier bid in the 2020 primary. Colton Moore, a former state senator, also garners attention due to his right-wing support and experience. Nicky Lama represents the new generation of conservative voices following his tenure on the Dalton City Council.
Additionally, Brian Stover, a trash-hauling entrepreneur, is already investing in campaign ads, indicating his serious approach to the race. Other Republican candidates range from various professions, including a retired marine and a business owner, demonstrating a diverse pool of candidates vying for Greene’s former seat.
Democratic and Third-Party Candidates
Shawn Harris leads the group of Democratic challengers, having previously run against Greene and raising substantial funds for his campaign. He is joined by Jim Davis and Jon Hobbs, who bring their own political experience to the race. Notably, voters will also have the option to choose from Libertarian Andrew Underwood and independent Rob “Rush” Ruszkowski, marking the election as an inclusive contest.
Election Mechanics
The special election dynamics are noteworthy as candidates must navigate multiple rounds of elections throughout the year. Following the March 10 election and potential April runoff, candidates will also face party primaries in May. This series of contests presents both challenges and opportunities for candidates as they strive for voter support.
Context & Previous Events
This election follows Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation earlier this month after a tumultuous five-year term in Congress. Her controversial political style and hard-right stance received both strong support and substantial criticism during her time in office. The district, spanning from suburban Atlanta to the Tennessee border, has been characterized as the most Republican-leaning in Georgia, setting a high stakes environment for the upcoming special election.
