Blair Wins Georgia Special Election for Scott’s Seat

The update

Former Gwinnett County School Board Chair Everton Blair Jr. has won the special election runoff to serve the remainder of Rep. David Scott’s term. The Associated Press projects Blair defeated Marcye Scott, the late congressman’s daughter, in Tuesday’s contest. Blair will take office for the final few months of Scott’s term, which ends in January. A full two-year term for the district will be decided in November’s general election between Democratic state Rep. Jasmine Clark and Republican Jonathan Chavez.

Why it matters

This outcome marks a political setback for a prominent political dynasty in Georgia’s 13th Congressional District. The district has historically been reliably Democratic, with Scott winning re-election in 2024 by a wide margin and Vice President Kamala Harris securing roughly 71% of the vote there in 2024. Blair’s victory in the runoff, coming after he finished second to Scott’s daughter in the initial nonpartisan election, signals a shift in local political dynamics. It also sets the stage for a competitive general election later this year.

What to watch

Watch how Blair positions himself during the remaining months of the term and which legislative priorities he emphasizes. Additionally, monitor the November general election results to see if Clark or Chavez can capitalize on the district’s Democratic leanings to secure the full term.

Sources

• cbsnews.com — Projecting Blair's victory, details on the runoff process, and the timeline of the term.
• thehill.com — Confirming the outcome and noting Marcye Scott as the defeated candidate.