DeKalb voters choose leaders in crucial election

Voters in DeKalb are picking their government leaders in Tuesday's primary election, a decision that has the potential to change the county's direction.

Major positions are on the ballot, including CEO, district attorney, county commissioners, judges and state legislators.

» FIND OUT MORE: DeKalb Voter Guide

Officials expect about 25 percent turnout, which means each vote carries more weight than in higher-turnout November elections.

Tuesday’s primary is when many seats will be decided in DeKalb. The county’s voting population leans heavily Democratic, and Republicans rarely win countywide general elections in November.

Among the top races:

• In the Democratic primary for DeKalb CEO, car towing business owner Joe Bembry, former DeKalb Commissioner Connie Stokes and former DeKalb schools superintendent Michael Thurmond are seeking the county's top office.
• For the county's chief prosecutor job, DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston is challenging District Attorney Robert James in the Democratic primary.
• For DeKalb Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton is opposed by business development manager Steve Bradshaw and sales manager Lance Hammonds. Commissioner Kathie Gannon faces political consultant Warren Mosby. Both races are in the Democratic primary.
• Three Democratic candidates are vying for tax commissioner, the county's highest-paid job with $242,000 in total compensation.
• Five law enforcement officers are competing for DeKalb sheriff in the Democratic primary.