Georgia state senator joins Republican congressional race for seat opened by Ferguson’s retirement
In a political development that adds fervor to Georgia’s congressional landscape, Republican state senator Mike Dugan from Carrollton has officially entered the race for the vacant 3rd Congressional District seat. Dugan, a seasoned politician with a military background, filed campaign contribution papers with the Federal Election Commission on Wednesday, signaling his intent to represent the district left open by the decision of four-term incumbent Drew Ferguson not to seek reelection.
The 3rd Congressional District is solidly Republican, encompassing regions along the Georgia-Alabama state line, stretching as far south as Columbus, and including areas south of Atlanta as far east as Barnesville and Griffin. The district has become a focal point of political attention due to its open status, with candidates vying to shape its future trajectory.
Dugan, who has served as a Republican state senator since 2012, announced his resignation from the state Senate on Thursday, triggering a special election for his seat. In his statement, he expressed a commitment to restoring a government that works for the people and conveyed his eagerness to be the voice representing Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District.
A former Army Ranger and paratrooper, Dugan retired as a lieutenant colonel in 2008 after more than two decades of military service. His subsequent career includes work as a construction contractor. Dugan’s political ascent saw him become the Senate majority leader in 2019, although he faced a setback in 2022 when he lost a bid for the position of president pro tem.
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Dugan’s dissatisfaction with the redistricting session in December, which resulted in Carroll County being split, has been a notable factor in his political trajectory. The move downgraded his influence, prompting him to seek a new platform where he believes he can better advocate for the interests of Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District.
The Republican field in this race is already robust, featuring candidates such as state Rep. David Jenkins, a farmer and retired Army helicopter pilot; Jim Bennett, a party activist critical of Ferguson’s conservative credentials; and Michael Corbin, a previous congressional candidate in Gwinnett County. Additional potential Republican contenders include state Sen. Matt Brass, former state Rep. Philip Singleton, state Sen. Randy Robertson, Brian Jack, former White House political director, and Chris West, who ran for southwest Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District in 2022.
The looming congressional primary on May 21 and the potential Republican runoff on June 18 promise a dynamic political landscape, with the general election scheduled for November 5. Democrat Rodney Moore has also thrown his hat into the ring, setting the stage for a competitive and closely watched race that will ultimately shape the representation of Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District.
