Unopposed candidates quickly claim victory as precincts close
The email hit inboxes within minutes of polls closing in Georgia: Tyler Harper claiming victory in the Republican primary for state agriculture commissioner.
Harper was the only GOP candidate who qualified in the race, making his primary victory all but a foregone conclusion for weeks. He’s seeking to succeed Gary Black, a Republican who ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate nomination won by Herschel Walker.
There are also several incumbent U.S. House members who also did not have primary opponents and therefore secure their nominations easily tonight.
Republican U.S. Reps. Buddy Carter, Barry Loudermilk, Rick Allen and Austin Scott were all unopposed in the primary, and so was Democratic Rep. Hank Johnson.
All of these lawmakers will face opponents from the opposing party in the general election but are in seats considered safe for the incumbents.
About the Author
Tia Mitchell is the AJC’s Washington Bureau Chief and a co-host of the "Politically Georgia" podcast. She writes about Georgia’s congressional delegation, campaigns, elections and the impact that decisions made in D.C. have on residents of the Peach State.
