Two Democrats decisively defeated Republican incumbents in the Georgia Public Service Commission elections on Tuesday, achieving the largest statewide victory margins for Democrats in over two decades.
Peter Hubbard and Alicia Johnson overcame Republicans Fitz Johnson and Tim Echols, marking the first time since 2006 that Democrats have won statewide office elections in Georgia.
The wins are expected to boost Democratic fundraising and voter enthusiasm ahead of the next year's key contests, including U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff's reelection campaign and an open governor's race.
In a competitive swing state, these substantial victories hint that rising electricity costs may become a significant political issue across the country.
"Two Democrats romped to wins over Republican incumbents in elections to the Georgia Public Service Commission on Tuesday, delivering the largest statewide margins of victory by Democrats in more than 20 years." – Jeff Amy, Associated Press
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Author's summary: Georgia Democrats won two key statewide utility regulator races with historic margins, signaling a boost in momentum and highlighting energy costs as a rising political concern.