East Cobbers are getting ready to vote [again] in Georgia’s January 5 Runoff Election. Voters must choose both of Georgia’s U.S. Senators and determine control of the U.S. Senate. No Senate candidate got half or more of the vote November 3. So by state law, the top two vote-getters in each Senate race face a January 5 runoff.
In one of the two races, Republican incumbent Kelly Loeffler faces off against Democratic candidate Raphael Warnock. With 32.9% of votes, Warnock received more votes than Loeffler, who received 25.9% of votes. Although Loeffler already holds the seat, this is her first time running. Georgia’s Republican Governor Brian Kemp selected her to replace retiring SenatorJohnny Isakson, an East Cobb resident, in 2019.
In the race for Georgia’s other Senate seat, incumbent Republican Senator David Perdue has the lead against Democratic candidate Jon Ossoff, earning 49.7% and 48% of the vote, respectively.
Georgia doesn’t usually dominate the national political spotlight, but If the Democratic candidates win both of the runoff elections, each party will hold 50 Senate seats and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will have the tie-breaking vote, giving the Democratic Party control over the Senate. With a Democrat majority in both chambers of Congress, Biden will face a much easier path in achieving his policy agenda.
Voters can find their county’s early voting locations, dates and times here, or use this locator that also includes absentee drop box locations.
ADVANCE IN-PERSON VOTING
- Advance voting begins Monday, Dec. 14, and will be held at various locations around the county. For more information on voting locations, times and dates, visit cobbelections.org.
- Please plan to practice safe social distancing when visiting these locations and anticipate lines.
- To vote in person, you must show one of six types of Photo ID
- There will be NO VOTING on Thursday, Dec. 24, Friday, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1, Saturday, Jan. 2, or Monday Jan. 4.
ABSENTEE VOTING
Any registered voter may request an absentee ballot for the Jan. 5 election through the State of Georgia’s online portal by visiting ballotrequest.sos.ga.gov. You can also download an application and submit it to Cobb Elections. For more information, visit cobbelections.org.
After the Elections Office has received, reviewed and verified your absentee ballot application, an absentee ballot will be mailed to your address.
You can return your completed ballot by mail or drop it off at one of 16 secure absentee ballot drop boxes located around the county. To find the location nearest you, visit cobbelections.org.
For more information on any voting matter, visit cobbelections.org.