Georgia Special Election voters will decide Tuesday who will represent the state’s 13th Congressional District after the death of longtime Democratic Representative David Scott. The race features six candidates competing for the remaining months of Scott’s congressional term, while both parties watch the outcome closely because of the narrow House majority.
The district remains strongly Democratic, but the election could still attract national attention because Republicans currently hold only a small advantage in the U.S. House. Therefore, even a traditionally Democratic seat carries importance as lawmakers prepare for future legislative battles.
Under Georgia election rules, all candidates appear together on the same ballot regardless of party affiliation. A candidate must receive more than half of the votes to win immediately. However, if no candidate reaches that threshold, the top two finishers will advance to a runoff election scheduled for August 25.
Four Democrats and two Republicans are competing in the contest. Democratic candidates include former Gwinnett County School Board Chair Everton Blair, Marcye Scott, Tony Brown, and Carlos Moore. Republicans Caesar Gonzales and Fayth Park are also seeking the seat.
Blair previously competed in the Democratic primary for the district’s upcoming full congressional term. He finished third in that election, while State Representative Jasmine Clark secured the nomination with a majority of the vote. Clark decided not to enter the special election because doing so could have affected her position in the state legislature.
The district includes portions of Clayton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Henry, Newton, and Rockdale counties near Atlanta. Gwinnett County represents the largest share of registered voters in the district, making it a key area for candidates seeking support.
Historically, Democratic candidates have performed strongly in the district. Scott won his previous reelection campaign with a large majority, while Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris also carried the district during the 2024 election. Republican Donald Trump received significantly fewer votes in the area during that presidential contest.
Election officials expect lower participation compared with regular November elections because special elections typically attract fewer voters. However, early voting remains an important factor, as many voters in the district previously used early or mail voting options.
The Georgia Special Election will also test voter engagement before the upcoming midterm elections. Officials will monitor turnout levels, voting patterns, and county-level results throughout the night. Additionally, election officials will determine whether a winner emerges immediately or whether candidates must compete again during the August runoff.
The winner will serve the remainder of Scott’s current congressional term. Meanwhile, the district will continue preparing for the regular congressional election scheduled for 2027.
Political observers are closely watching the race because it reflects broader discussions about party strength, voter participation, and congressional control. Although the district remains heavily Democratic, the outcome provides insight into voter priorities before the next major election cycle.
As counting begins, officials will review early ballots, absentee votes, and Election Day results before announcing a final outcome. If the margin remains close, Georgia election rules allow a recount request under specific conditions. Consequently, the final result could take additional time if the race remains highly competitive.
