Georgia’s 2014 elections will most likely start two months earlier than in past statewide election seasons, with a general primary May 20, instead of in July. Candidates – including those for six local seats in Bryan County – will need to qualify March 3-7.
It will be a busy election year. Races include those for governor and almost all other elected state officials, plus the crowded contest to replace retiring Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., in the U.S. Senate. The 1st Congressional District will elect a new member of the U.S. House for the first time in 22 years, since Rep. Jack Kingston, R-Savannah, is giving the seat up to be one of the Senate contenders.
The May date for the primary has been set by a federal judge for the congressional races. That the state and county primaries will be held same day remains highly probable, rather than certain, because state lawmakers must pass a law changing the state election date. That can’t happen until the Georgia General Assembly convenes.
“Until they reconvene in January, we don’t know for sure,” said Probate Clerk Cindy Reynolds, slated to become Bryan County’s election supervisor at midyear. “We’re kind of hoping or tending to go with that they will be, but it’s kind of up in the air.”

Read full story in Dec. 28 issue of the Bryan County News.