For over fifty years, the coroner’s race in Chattooga County has not been at the forefront of Chattooga County politics.  That could change this year.  Two have officially announced that they will be qualifying in the GOP Primary for the office.  Incumbent Democratic Coroner Earl Rainwater says he hasn’t made up his mind if he will run again for the post he has held since 1972.  That means there will definitely be a contested primary in May for coroner on the Republican side, and there could be a contested race in November if Mr. Rainwater chooses to run again.

On Saturday, Jeremy “Big Mac” McElhaney announced his candidacy and told WZQZ News, “I am officially announcing my candidacy for the office of the Chattooga County Coroner in the 2024 election. I am a Chattooga county resident and I am currently a certified Georgia Coroner serving as a back up Deputy Coroner for the Floyd County Coroner’s office. I have the experience, certification, availability and compassion to serve the Citizens of Chattooga County efficiently and professionally. I am a conservative Christian, work full time in the funeral industry in Chattooga County, a licensed EMT, a former firefighter, and have a passion to serve the citizens in a professional and dedicated manner. Please consider voting for me in the upcoming election”.

Earlier this year, Savannah McGill announced her candidacy.  She is a registered nurse and a lifelong resident of Chattooga County.  She says that she is familiar with the coroners from surrounding counties, having worked in the emergency department of Atrium Health Floyd and would like to serve the residents of Chattooga County as coroner.

WZQZ News has received information that a third Republican candidate may be forthcoming.