ATLANTA — Democrats are closing in on a potential majority in the Georgia House of Representatives following Tuesday’s midterm elections, a shift that would give the party control of the chamber for the first time in two decades.
As of Wednesday morning, results indicated Democrats could gain enough seats to take control of the 180-member chamber, which Republicans previously held with a 99-81 majority.
Based on the reported results, Democrats could secure a 92-88 majority. However, that margin could change as additional races are decided, and one contest could potentially require a runoff.
The Georgia Democratic Party has already declared victory in its effort to flip the chamber, but several races remain too close to call.
Democrats have also swept statewide offices and the U.S. Senate race.
Several Democratic candidates have been projected to defeat Republican incumbents in state House races.
In District 19, Democrat Cynthia Starke-Jones defeated Republican incumbent Joseph Gullett with 51.9% of the vote compared to 48.1%.
Democrat Danielle Bell won District 44 against Republican incumbent Don Parsons, receiving 52% of the vote.
Other projected Democratic victories include Mishael White in District 81, Michelle Kang in District 99, Farooq Mughal in District 105, Renita Duncan in District 147 and Stephanie Burgess in District 164.
Several additional Democratic candidates were leading Republican incumbents as of Wednesday morning, including Scott Soracco in District 29, Elisa Lassiter in District 40, Adam Cleveland in District 48 and Beth Fuller in District 53.
One of the closest contests is in District 103, where Democrat Chris Luchey held a narrow lead over Republican incumbent Soo Hong, 50.1% to 49.9%.
Democrat David Dillie was also leading Republican incumbent Bill Hitchens in District 161, with 51.8% of the vote. Dillie previously faced a residency challenge but was allowed to remain on the ballot following a judge’s ruling.
Republicans have also made gains in some districts.
In District 121, Republican Mack Guest IV defeated Democratic incumbent Eric Gisler with 52.5% of the vote.
Republican Trey Sheppard was also leading Democrat Tyrone Evans in District 128, a seat previously held by retiring Democratic state Rep. Mack Jackson.
While Democrats could gain control of the Georgia House, Republicans are expected to retain their majority in the state Senate by a narrow margin of one or two seats. Earlier results indicated a potential 29-27 Republican advantage.
Nationally, Democrats have secured at least seven additional seats in the U.S. Senate, giving the party a 54-seat majority.
Democrats have also gained multiple seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, securing at least a 231-seat majority.
Back in Georgia, the final balance of power in the state House will depend on the remaining races as votes continue to be counted.
