Out of a field of 6 republican candidates running for the Georgia House District 9 seat, local politician Will Wade and attorney Steve Leibel are heading to a runoff after the results of the June 9 primary election.
Will Wade
Who he is: Wade is a former Dawson County Board of Education member and community banker.
How he reacted: “I’m honored to advance to the runoff election on August 11th. I want to thank each and every one of you who took the time to cast your vote for me in yesterday’s primary,” Wade said. “We have been so humbled and blessed to take this journey with so many of you. I look forward to earning your vote one more time and ask for your continued prayers during these next 9 weeks. Onward to victory so we can get North Georgia winning again.”
On the issues: A top priority for Wade is to improve the economy of Georgia and District 9 by expanding opportunities for businesses in rural areas like Dawson County.
What’s next: Wade will face Leibel in the Aug. 11 runoff.
Steve Leibel
Who he is: Leibel is an attorney and business owner in North Georgia.
How he reacted: “I was gratified to see that we came in second and I look forward to a spirited campaign with Mr. Wade,” Leibel said. “I was gratified by the results of last night and I believe that I have a message that resonates with voters.”
On the issues: Leibel’s top priorities are to bolster law enforcement agencies through state grants and to advocate for more affordable health insurance.
What’s next: Leibel will face Wade in the Aug. 11 runoff.
Georgia House District 9 Representative Republican nominee With 100% of precincts reporting
Will Wade (Rep.): 43.98 percent (2,545)
Steve Leibel (Rep.): 19.06 percent (1,011)
Clint Smith (Rep.): 11.11 percent (643)
Zach Tumlin (Rep.): 9.4 percent (544)
Doug Sherill (Rep.): 9.56 percent (582)
Tyler Tolin (Rep.): 7.96 percent (461)
Sharon Ravert
Who she is: Ravert is a small business owner and citizen advocate.
How he reacted: "My campaign team is thrilled with the primary results and can't wait to see who the citizens chose as their HD 9 Republican candidate. We are looking forward to getting to know more of our neighbors in Dawson county," Ravert said. "When elected I will represent every citizen regardless of party."
On the issues: Ravert’s top priorities will be to fight overregulation in the state, expand broadband coverage in rural areas and fight for criminal justice reform.
What’s next: In November, Ravert will face the winner of the Aug. 11 runoff.
Georgia House District 9 Representative Democratic nominee With 100% of precincts reporting
Sharon Ravert (Dem.): 100 percent (177)