News Summary
Early voting for Georgia’s general election has started, allowing voters to engage in various crucial local races, including the Public Service Commission. In Atlanta, incumbent Mayor Andre Dickens aims for a second term amidst competition. Voters are advised to check their registration and are reminded of photo ID requirements. This election cycle is crucial for shaping local governance and public services across the state.
Atlanta, Georgia – Early voting for the November 4 general election in Georgia commenced on October 14, 2025. Voters across the state are participating in crucial elections, including contests for local mayors, city council members, and two members of the Public Service Commission, which oversees electricity, natural gas, and telephone services in the state.
The Public Service Commission races are drawing attention, especially District 2, where incumbent Tim Echols is contending with challenger Alicia Johnson. In District 3, incumbent Fitz Johnson faces off against challenger Peter Hubbard. Currently, all five seats on the Public Service Commission are held by Republicans, making these elections particularly significant in potentially reshaping the power dynamics within the commission.
Additionally, a special election is being conducted for State House District 106 in Gwinnett County. Candidates for this race include Akbar Ali, Marqus Cole, and Jamie Parker, who is stepping in to replace former representative Shelly Hutchinson following her retirement announcement in August.
In Atlanta, incumbent Mayor Andre Dickens is seeking a second term, competing against three opponents: Helmut “Love” Domagalski, Kalema Jackson, and Eddie Meredith. There are also vacancies for open city council seats, including the position of city council president. Notably, seven city council incumbents are running unopposed, while three city leaders have chosen not to seek re-election.
Beyond mayoral and council elections in Atlanta, voters in surrounding metro Atlanta cities, including Marietta, Sandy Springs, and South Fulton, are also heading to the polls for their respective local elections. The ballot for Atlanta voters includes four seats on the Atlanta Board of Education, adding to the stakes of this election cycle.
Early voting is set to continue through October 31, 2025, with the final day to request an absentee ballot being October 24. Voters are urged to check their registration status, view sample ballots, and find their polling places through the Secretary of State’s My Voter Page. It is important to note that Georgia voters are required to present a photo ID when voting, either in person or by mail. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, U.S. passport, or a free Voter Identification Card issued in Georgia. Absentee voters must also submit identification or a document showing their name and address along with their ballot.
This election is vital for making decisions that will impact local governance and public services in Georgia. The outcome of the races will determine who leads local municipalities, oversees public utilities, and influences educational policies in the Atlanta area and beyond.
As early voting moves forward, voters are encouraged to engage actively in the electoral process, ensuring their voices are heard in this key election ahead of the November 4 date. The turnout for early voting may provide insights into the level of public interest and engagement in local governance issues this election cycle.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Georgia Recorder
- Wikipedia: Georgia (U.S. state)
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Google Search: Georgia early voting 2025
- AJC
- Google Scholar: Georgia public service commission
- CBS News Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia (U.S.)
- WRDW
- Google News: Georgia elections 2025
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
