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Georgia House Seats Vacant, Sparking Intense Battle

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 7:28 GMT by Atlanta Journal-Constitution
      Locales: Georgia, UNITED STATES

Atlanta, GA - February 12th, 2026 - Georgia's political landscape is undergoing a significant shift with two U.S. House seats now vacant, setting the stage for what promises to be a hotly contested battle for control of these key districts. The resignations of Republican Representative Drew Ferguson and Democrat Representative Lucy McBath have thrown both the 3rd and 6th congressional districts into play, attracting a surge of potential candidates and capturing national attention as control of the House of Representatives hangs in the balance.

Ferguson, representing the 3rd District, announced his departure earlier in 2026 to pursue unspecified "other opportunities," leaving behind a traditionally conservative electorate. McBath, on the other hand, has launched a bid for the governorship, vacating the 6th District - a seat that has become increasingly competitive due to rapidly changing demographics. These dual vacancies present a unique opportunity for both parties to reshape Georgia's congressional delegation and exert influence on the national stage.

The 3rd District: Maintaining Republican Dominance

The 3rd Congressional District has long been a Republican stronghold, and the expectation is that the party will maintain its grip on the seat. Several candidates have already emerged, vying for the Republican nomination. Leading contenders include State Senator Sam Watson, a familiar face in Georgia politics with a strong conservative record, and Gary Komiega, a former Columbus Councilman known for his local advocacy. The primary race is anticipated to be vigorous, focusing on key issues such as economic development, national security, and the future of rural Georgia.

Analysts predict that the Republican primary winner will be overwhelmingly favored in the general election. However, a strong Democratic challenger could emerge, potentially forcing the Republican candidate to expend resources defending what is generally considered safe territory. The key for Democrats will be identifying a candidate who can appeal to moderate voters and highlight any potential vulnerabilities of the Republican nominee.

The 6th District: A Democratic Target in Shifting Sands

The 6th Congressional District presents a far more complex and intriguing contest. Encompassing portions of Fulton and Cobb counties - affluent and increasingly diverse suburban areas - the district has undergone a dramatic demographic transformation in recent years. Once a reliably Republican district, it has steadily trended towards the Democratic side, making it a prime target for the party. McBath's successful campaigns demonstrated the potential for Democratic success in this area, and the party is determined to hold onto the seat.

Former State Representative Pierre Howard has already announced his candidacy for the 6th District, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a progressive platform. Other potential Democratic contenders are expected to enter the race, creating a competitive primary. On the Republican side, the party is actively recruiting a strong candidate capable of reclaiming the district. Early speculation points towards a businessman with deep local ties and a moderate stance, aiming to appeal to the district's changing electorate.

The 6th District race is expected to be a bruising battle, with both sides pouring resources into voter outreach, advertising, and grassroots organizing. Issues such as affordable healthcare, education funding, and climate change are likely to dominate the debate.

National Implications: A Tightening Race for the House

The stakes in these Georgia congressional races extend far beyond the state's borders. The U.S. House of Representatives is currently closely divided, and every seat is crucial. Republicans are aggressively seeking to regain control of the House in the 2026 midterm elections, while Democrats are fighting to defend their slim majority. The outcome of the races in Georgia's 3rd and 6th Districts could very well determine which party controls the legislative agenda.

"These seats are absolutely critical," says political analyst Dr. Eleanor Vance of the University of Georgia. "Even a single shift in the balance of power could have a significant impact on key policy debates, from the budget to healthcare to national security. The national parties are going to invest heavily in these races."

Looking Ahead: A Political Bellwether

The campaigns for the 3rd and 6th congressional districts are poised to be among the most watched races in the nation. The outcomes will not only shape Georgia's congressional delegation but also provide valuable insights into the evolving political landscape of the state and the broader national mood. Political observers will be closely monitoring voter turnout, fundraising numbers, and candidate messaging to gauge the direction of the electorate and predict the results of the 2026 midterm elections. The battles for these two seats are a microcosm of the larger struggle for control of Congress, and their resolution will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences.