News Summary
Republican Jason Dickerson has secured his position in Senate District 21 after winning the runoff election against Democrat Debra Shigley. With 9,432 votes compared to Shigley’s 7,009, Dickerson’s victory helps maintain the Republican majority in the Georgia state Senate. His self-funded campaign emphasizes traditional values, while Shigley focused on key local issues. This election serves as a potential indicator for future political trends in the state as local Democrats express optimism about their grassroots efforts.
Woodstock, Georgia – Republican Jason Dickerson has successfully maintained Senate District 21 for his party in the recent runoff election against Democratic candidate Debra Shigley. With this victory, Dickerson secured 9,432 votes compared to Shigley’s 7,009 votes. By winning this seat, Republicans have preserved their majority in the Georgia state Senate with a count of 33 representatives to 23.
Jason Dickerson, who is the president of a private investment firm, will be filling the position previously held by Brandon Beach. Beach was recently appointed as the U.S. Treasurer by President Donald Trump and had been in the Senate since his first election in 2013. He most recently won re-election in November.
The runoff election was held due to the results from a special primary election on August 26, where no candidate received over 50% of the votes. In that primary, Shigley emerged unexpectedly strong, winning more than 39% in a district that is typically dominated by Republicans. The primary featured seven candidates, including six Republicans and Shigley as the lone Democrat.
Senate District 21 encompasses much of Cherokee County along with a portion of North Fulton County, making it a significant area within Georgia. Jason Dickerson self-funded his campaign with a contribution of $750,000, while Shigley raised approximately $252,000 for her efforts. The runoff election attracted an increased turnout, with around 10,000 more voters participating compared to the primary election.
Georgia Republican Party Chairman Josh McKoon noted the crucial role of a digital outreach campaign in mobilizing voters during this election cycle. Dickerson’s campaign strategy focused on portraying Shigley as a “woke liberal” and emphasized traditional Trump-supporting values. In contrast, Shigley, an attorney and small business owner, focused her campaign on pocketbook issues such as rising healthcare costs and enhancing public school support.
Despite the defeat, Shigley expressed pride in the campaign she ran and maintained a commitment to improving the district. Her strong performance caught the attention of national Democratic leaders, including DNC Chair Ken Martin, as the race highlighted growing interest among Democrats in the traditionally Republican district.
The outcome of this special election is viewed as a bellwether for future electoral contests, particularly the midterm elections that include U.S. Senate spots and statewide offices scheduled for 2026. Shigley’s campaign attempted to connect with voters who are increasingly dissatisfied with the current political atmosphere under Trump’s presidency. Local Democrats remain optimistic about their grassroots organizing efforts, independent of the runoff’s result, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiments.
Overall, Jason Dickerson’s victory in Senate District 21 maintains the Republican stronghold in Georgia state politics and sets the stage for future elections amidst a changing political landscape.
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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.
