Democratic gains in county government, the General Assembly and statewide offices signal a new chapter for Douglas County and Georgia
The Douglas County Democratic Committee is celebrating a historic 2026 election cycle, as voters delivered major Democratic victories in Georgia and strengthened Democratic representation in Douglas County.
From the May primaries to the Nov. 3 general election, Douglas County voters elected and reelected Democrats to positions in county government, public education and the Georgia General Assembly.
The results also helped usher in a historic statewide Democratic sweep.
Among the most significant local developments was Democrat Gil McDougal’s victory over Republican incumbent Mark Alcarez in the race for Douglas County Commission District 4. Alcarez was the last Republican serving on the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. McDougal’s victory, pending certification, would give Democrats all five seats on the commission.
Another major victory came in Georgia House District 40, where Democrat Elisa Lassiter defeated Republican incumbent Kimberly New, flipping a seat previously held by and drawn for Republicans.
“These victories reflect the dedication of candidates, volunteers and voters who believe Douglas County deserves leadership that listens, serves and delivers,” said Dr. Robin Zuniga-Ortega, Ph.D., interim chair of the Douglas County Democratic Committee. “From our neighborhoods and schools to the General Assembly, Douglas County Democrats have demonstrated what is possible when people organize, show up and above all vote.”
Democratic victories began in the primaries
Several local Democratic candidates secured their paths to office in the May 19 primary election because no Republican or independent challengers qualified for the general election.
County Commission District 1 incumbent Henry Mitchell III and District 3 incumbent Martin Raxton won their Democratic primaries and faced no general-election opposition. Solicitor General Sonya Compton also ran without opposition in November.
Democrats secured all three Douglas County Board of Education seats on the 2026 ballot as well. Tammie Harris-Roach won the Democratic nomination for District 2, Chauntis Jenkins Floyd won the nomination for District 3, and incumbent Michelle Simmons won the nomination for District 4. All three faced no general-election challengers.
These victories underscored the strength of Democratic candidates across Douglas County and ensured continued Democratic leadership in important local offices before November’s ballots were cast.
Douglas County Democrats secure legislative victories
Democratic candidates also achieved significant results in the Georgia General Assembly races representing Douglas County.
In House District 40, Elisa Lassiter defeated incumbent Republican Kimberly New, contributing to the Democratic takeover of the Georgia House of Representatives.
In House District 64, incumbent Democrat Sylvia Wayfer Baker defeated Republican Lydia Parchue, securing another term representing her constituents.
In House District 66, incumbent Democrat Kimberly Alexander won reelection without general-election opposition after defeating a challenger in the Democratic primary.
In Senate District 28, incumbent Democrat Donzella James secured reelection without a general-election challenger after winning her Democratic primary.
Although Republican Tim Bearden retained Senate District 30, Democrats made historic gains across Georgia, narrowing the Republican majority in the state Senate while capturing control of the Georgia House for the first time in 22 years.
Georgia voters deliver historic statewide victories
Douglas County’s results were part of a remarkable statewide election in which Democrats won every statewide executive race, including the governorship.
Keisha Lance Bottoms was elected governor, becoming the first Black woman elected governor of Georgia. State Sen. Josh McLaurin won the lieutenant governor’s race, while U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff secured reelection.
Democrats also captured the offices of secretary of state, attorney general, agriculture commissioner, insurance commissioner, labor commissioner and state school superintendent, among other statewide victories.
The election marked a major shift in Georgia politics and demonstrated the growing strength of Democratic organizing across the state.
Building on the victories
The Douglas County Democratic Committee credited candidates, campaign staff, poll watchers, election workers, volunteers and voters for their commitment throughout the election cycle.
“Election victories don’t happen by accident,” Zuniga-Ortega said. “They happen because people knock on doors, make phone calls, register voters, protect the vote and encourage their neighbors to participate. We’re proud of every candidate who stepped forward and every volunteer who helped make this year possible.”
The committee also emphasized that its work continues beyond Election Day.
“Winning elections is only the beginning,” Zuniga-Ortega said. “Now comes the responsibility of delivering results for the people of Douglas County. We intend to keep building an engaged, informed and active Democratic community.”
Residents interested in getting involved with the Douglas County Democratic Committee can visit DCDems.org/Join.
About the Douglas County Democratic Committee
The Douglas County Democratic Committee is the official county organization of the Democratic Party of Georgia. The committee works to elect Democratic candidates, promote civic engagement, protect voting rights and advance policies that improve the lives of Douglas County residents.