By Paul Bolster
Two of the three Georgia House of Representatives members representing the Porch Press area, and one of our senators, is not running for re-election to their current seats in the May 19 primary. Rep Tanya Miller of the 62nd district, who lives in Grant Park, decided some time ago she would seek the Democratic nomination for State Attorney General. Rep. Saira Draper of the 90th district, which includes East Atlanta, did not qualify for her House seat but plans to run for election to the State Senate.
The big news in all this seat shuffling is that State Senator Elena Parent will not seek another term. She has served in the Senate for ten years and risen in the leadership to become Democratic Caucus Chair. Her years in elected office started in the House in 2010 and she moved to the Senate after the 2014 election. In her announcement she said, “I have decided not to seek re-election and instead begin a new chapter where I believe I can make an even greater difference. My time under the Gold Dome has been rewarding, and, at times, frustrating, but it has always been meaningful.” She said she would have more to say about her future plans after the session is completed. In her announcement she endorsed Representative Draper to succeed her in the Senate.
The 62nd House District candidates are:
- KaVon Arnold
- Ken Collier
- Matt Rinker
- Willie Horace Roseberry
The 90th House District candidates are:
- Former Representative Howard Mosby
- Leisa Stafford
- Nicole Horn
- Bentley Hudgins
The 44th Senate District candidates are:
- Representative Saira Draper
- Former Senator Nadine Thomas
- Ngozi Orabuez qualified as a Rebublican
The other members of the legislature representing the Porch Press coverage area are running for re-election uncontested. Their districts are much larger than just the areas within this area.
Senator Nan Orrock represents the SAND area, Grant Park, and additional areas.
Representative Kim Schofield represents SAND and additional areas.
All candidates are invited to give The Porch Press a short article (100 words or less) describing their reasons for running and the difference they hope to make in the lives of the people who live in the Porch Press area. The deadline for such articles is March 25. Please submit them to editor@theporchpress.com.
