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Runoff set for Georgia's 14th District after no majority winner
None of the 17 candidates secured the required majority in Tuesday's special election to replace former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, forcing a 7 April runoff between Republican Clay Fuller and Democrat Shawn Harris.
Trump's endorsement shapes Republican field
Former President Donald Trump threw his full support behind Clay Fuller last month, calling him the "perfect choice" for Georgia's 14th District during a rally in Rome. Trump's endorsement helped Fuller emerge from a crowded GOP primary, though the base split among multiple candidates.
Fuller, a former district attorney, praised Trump's influence on election night, declaring, "You see what this man means to this community, what he means to the people in this country, and what he means to the MAGA movement."
Democrat Harris leads initial vote count
Shawn Harris, a retired brigadier general and local farmer, received the most votes Tuesday, benefiting from the fractured Republican field. Democrats quickly rallied behind him, with former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg congratulating Harris on X and pledging to campaign with him this weekend.
Harris told the BBC his strategy remains unchanged: "I want to talk to every voter who supported another candidate and say, 'Give me a chance.'"
Greene's legacy looms over the race
Marjorie Taylor Greene's polarizing tenure cast a long shadow over the election. Known for her hardline immigration stance, conspiracy theories, and fiery committee appearances, Greene was a staunch Trump ally until their public fallout over the Epstein files. Despite their rift, Greene's departure left a deeply conservative district up for grabs.
Voters like Marsha Miles cited Fuller's alignment with Trump's policies-mass deportation, domestic manufacturing, and tough-on-crime rhetoric-as key to their support. "He's the perfect choice for representation in this area," said Teresa Lumsden, a Fuller supporter.
What's next for the runoff
The winner will serve the remainder of Greene's term, which ends in January, but must immediately campaign for a full term in November's midterms. Trump has already urged supporters to back Fuller, while Democrats aim to capitalize on early momentum.
Harris's campaign emphasized unity, targeting disaffected Republicans with a message of bipartisan outreach. "I want to speak kindly to all constituents, regardless of party," said Sheila Hutchings, a Harris voter.
