Early Voting Begins in Georgia for Local Elections

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