SPECIAL ELECTION: HD 23

The state has scheduled a special election to fill the vacancy in Georgia House District 23 following the passing of incumbent Representative Mandi Ballinger (R) in October.

The general election will be held on December 9, 2025, with early voting beginning November 17. If no candidate secures more than 50 percent of the vote, a runoff will be held January 6, 2026.

District 23 is located in Cherokee County and includes parts of Canton, northern Holly Springs, and surrounding unincorporated territories. Historically, the district has been securely Republican: Ballinger last faced a Democratic opponent in 2018 and won with around three-quarters of the vote under prior boundaries. While district lines have been adjusted since then, the partisan lean remains strongly favorable to the GOP.

Six candidates have qualified to fill the seat: five Republicans and one Democrat. On the Republican side, the field includes firefighter and prior state‐Senate contender Brice Futch, former assistant district attorney Bill Fincher, among others. The Democratic candidate remains the sole nominee from that party in the race.

Key issues presented in candidate statements include law enforcement support, tax issues (particularly state income taxes and ad-valorem taxes on property), school choice and parental rights, and immigration.

Important Dates:

• Last day to register to vote for this special election: Monday, November 10, 2025.

• Advance in-person absentee voting begins: Monday, November 17, 2025.

• Election Day: Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

• Runoff (if no candidate receives a majority): Scheduled for Tuesday, January 6, 2026.