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March 9, 2026

Several Floyd County Commission Races Contested After Qualifying Ends

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Qualifying has officially ended for the May 19 primary election and the November 3 general election, setting up several contested races for the Floyd County Commission.

In Floyd County Commission Post 1, incumbent Rhonda Wallace will face a Republican primary challenge from Shane Cowan.

In Post 4, incumbent David Thornton is being challenged in the Republican primary by Bryon Eugene Benefield. The winner of that race will face Democrat Fred Adams in the November general election.

The Post 5 seat, currently held by Scotty Hancock, is open as Hancock is not seeking re-election. Ronnie Kilgo, Cleve Jackson, and Tonya Eden Shepard will compete in the Republican primary, with the winner advancing to face Democrat Shonna Bailey in November.

March 9, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga County Voters Head to the Polls Tuesday in Two Special Elections

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Voters in Chattooga County will head to the polls Tuesday to take part in two important special elections, one for Georgia State Senate District 53 and another for Georgia’s 14th Congressional District. Both races were triggered by recent political changes and will determine who fills the remaining terms in those seats.

February 18, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

“Country Democrats Rising” Event Set for February 21 in Walker County

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A political and community event titled “Country Democrats Rising” is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Walker County Ag Center located at 10052 North Highway 27 in Rock Spring. Organizers describe the gathering as a mix of political discussion, entertainment, and music.

The event will feature comedian Corey Ryan Forrester, also known as the “Redneck Liberal,” along with appearances by local and congressional candidates, including U.S. Congressional candidate Shawn Harris and Public Service Commission candidate Peter Hubbard. A cornbread and chili lunch is also planned for attendees, along with live country music from Abston/Mast Trio.

Tickets are priced at $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, and $15 for youth ages 16 to 30, with organizers noting the event is for adults only. Prepaid tickets are available online through ActBlue.

February 9, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Summerville City Council to Address Budget, Fireworks, and Public Safety at Monday Meeting

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The Summerville City Council is set to meet for a regular called session on Monday, February 9, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Summerville Recreation Center, located at 220 Highway 100.

February 9, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Elsberry Responds to Questions About Zentell Communications, Says He Was Not Paid and Has Been Cleared of Wrongdoing

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Blake Elsberry, a candidate for Georgia State Senate District 53 and former Chattooga County Sole Commissioner, has released a public response addressing questions surrounding his past involvement with Zentell Communications.