The Georgia congressional race in the 2nd Congressional District has taken a volatile turn as Chuck Hand, a candidate convicted of a misdemeanor for his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, walked out of a televised debate with fellow Republican Wayne Johnson. The two candidates are competing for the GOP nomination to challenge Democratic incumbent Rep. Sanford Bishop in November. Hand’s decision to leave the debate came after Michael Nixon, who finished third in the primary, endorsed Johnson and brought up past criminal charges against Hand. Hand’s exit from the debate has raised questions about his fitness to be the Republican nominee.
Before walking out of the debate, Hand accused Johnson of orchestrating attacks by Nixon and criticized the mention of his wife’s previous conviction for illegal sale of oxycodone. Hand emphasized his working-class background and commitment to improving economic conditions in the district. He also criticized Johnson for not residing within the district, although residency is not a requirement for congressional candidates. Hand has positioned himself as a Trump supporter who aims to unite Black and white workers under the banner of the former president.
Johnson, who served in the U.S. Education Department during the Trump administration, has taken a more moderate stance in the campaign, appealing to Black Democrats who traditionally support Bishop. He has expressed opposition to proposed Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps. Johnson believes that winning over Democratic voters is crucial to defeating Bishop in the general election. He has invested in businesses within the district and plans to move to Plains, Jimmy Carter’s hometown, if elected.
The runoff between Hand and Johnson was triggered by neither candidate receiving a majority vote in the May 21 primary. Johnson won almost 45% of the vote, while Hand secured almost 32%. Early in-person voting for the June 18 election begins soon, and both candidates are rallying their supporters to turn out. Hand has emphasized grassroots activism and his commitment to putting the needs of the district first, while Johnson has highlighted his moderate positions and appeal to a broader base of voters. The race has become highly contested, with tensions rising between the two candidates and their supporters.
Looking ahead to the general election in November, the outcome of the GOP primary runoff will determine who will challenge Rep. Bishop for the congressional seat. While Hand and Johnson have different approaches and priorities in their campaigns, both are vying for the opportunity to represent the 2nd Congressional District in Georgia. The race has garnered attention due to Hand’s previous conviction related to the Capitol riot and the intense competition between the two Republican candidates. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the outcome of the runoff will shape the dynamics of the upcoming election and the future of the district.
