Election 2024: Key races happening across South Georgia

ALBANY, Ga. – Here at the Albany Civic Center, the same spot where I shared updates on early voting just a few weeks back.

Now, we’re only one day away from Election Day, and the CBS 44 team and I will be here to keep you informed every step of the way.

Let’s take a look at some of the top races here in South Georgia.

As of Saturday morning, over 50% of voters in 92 Georgia counties have turned out – a record-breaking milestone, according to Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.

CBS News will be covering all the Presidential election updates, but we’re also keeping a close eye on key local races.

One of the most closely watched is the District 2 U.S. Congressional Race. Incumbent Democrat Sanford Bishop Jr., who has held the seat for 32 years, faces a challenge from Republican Dr. A. Wayne Johnson, a successful businessman advocating for change in both Washington and South Georgia.

We’re also tracking several key sheriff races across multiple counties, including a potentially historic election in Thomas county. Republican candidate Tim Watkins is running for sheriff, and if elected, he would be the first African American to hold that position in the county’s history.

In addition to the sheriff races, there are special elections in three cities.

In Albany, voters will decide on a proposal to permit Sunday package sales of malt beverages, wine, and distilled spirits.

In Douglas, a Special Election will fill the Ward 2 City Commissioner vacancy left by the honorable Kentaiwon Durham’s resignation.

And… in Ocilla, voters will weigh in on the Joint Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for Irwin county and the city.

Meanwhile, six counties – Baker, Berrien, Calhoun, Lee, Wilcox, and Worth – have no contested races, with all candidates running unopposed. This also includes uncontested U.S. Senate races.

Stay with us for the latest updates as we bring you everything you need to know leading up to, throughout, and following Election Day on Tuesday.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 News South Georgia. All rights reserved.