Georgia’s secretary of state race appeared to be poised for a runoff, with neither Republican Brad Raffensperger nor Democrat John Barrow receiving more than half of Tuesday’s vote.

With less than 2 percent of the vote outstanding, Raffensperger had a slight lead over Barrow, though both were just short of the necessary halfway mark. Libertarian Smythe DuVal appeared to secure a couple of percentage points in the three-way race.

If Raffensperger, a state representative, or Barrow, a former U.S. congressman, do not receive more than 50 percent of the vote when all the ballots are counted, the two will face off again Dec. 4 in a runoff election.

Whoever becomes secretary of state will have a major job ahead of him. The winner of the race will be responsible for protecting voters’ rights and overseeing the replacement of the state’s 16-year-old electronic voting machines.

The Secretary of State’s Office is the closest interaction many Georgians have with their state government, handling elections, business registrations and professional licensing.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Georgia Republican Party Chair Josh McKoon, pictured speaking at an election night watch party in Atlanta in November, said his some in his party still lack confidence in election integrity and want more changes. In an AJC poll in December, nearly 98% of those surveyed who identified as Republicans said they believe their vote was accurately counted. (Jason Getz/AJC 2024)

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com