April 18 special election in Georgia's 6th Congressional District

This page primarily focuses on the April 18 election. For more information on the runoff, see Georgia's 6th Congressional District special election, 2017

The 6th Congressional District of Georgia held a special election for the U.S. House of Representatives on April 18, 2017. No candidate received at least 50 percent of the vote in the general election, so the top two, Jon Ossoff (D) and Karen Handel (R), advanced to the runoff election on June 20.

Heading into the April election, Ballotpedia rated this race as a race to watch. Although it was normally a safe Republican district, polling and spending in the district indicated a competitive race. The election replaced Tom Price (R), who was confirmed as U.S. secretary of health and human services. Prior to his cabinet appointment, Price represented the 6th District from 2005 to 2017. Eighteen candidates filed to run in the race: 11 Republicans, five Democrats, and two independents. A traditional primary election was not held in the race. Instead, all candidates competed in a special election on April 18, 2017. Of those 18, Jon Ossoff (D) and Karen Handel (R) advanced to the June 20 runoff election.

Jon Ossoff (D) took the first slot in the runoff with 48.1 percent of the vote. Karen Handel (R) secured the second position with 19.8 percent of the vote. Bob Gray (R) came in third with 10.8 percent of the vote, while Dan Moody (R) and Judson Hill (R) both received 8.8 percent of the vote. Democratic candidates combined to receive about 49 percent of the total vote, while Republican candidates combined to receive about 51 percent of the total vote.

Heading into the election, Democrat Jon Ossoff led the field according to polling data. He was trailed by the four Republican front-runners in the race: former Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel, businessman Bob Gray, state Sen. Judson Hill, and former state Sen. Dan Moody. Ossoff hovered around the 40 percent mark in the polls, while Handel consistently took second place with 15 to 20 percent. Gray consistently took third with 10 to 15 percent, and Hill and Moody averaged between five and ten percent.

Ossoff also led the field in fundraising by a substantial margin, raising over $8.3 million. Comparatively, only three U.S. House candidates raised more than $8.3 million during the entire 2016 election cycle, and Democratic congressional candidates in Georgia's 6th District raised a combined sum of $836,228 from 2000 to 2016. Moody raised over $2 million, 95 percent of which was self-funded. Gray's contributions totaled $717,500, and he loaned his campaign $500,000. Hill and Handel raised $523,032 and $463,744, respectively.

Each of the front-runners launched an ad campaign and had received at least one important endorsement in the race. The candidates largely focused on self-promotion in their ads and rarely opposed one another. Dan Moody was the only one to release an ad directly criticizing a fellow candidate, Karen Handel.

When asked about the importance of this race, former Speaker of the House and U.S. Representative from Georgia's 6th District (1979-1999) Newt Gingrich told Ballotpedia, "I do think Republicans have to pay attention, and I think it would be a big mistake to allow this district to go to Ossoff, partly because of the psychology nationally, and partly because once a relatively talented person gets in office, it’s really hard to get rid of them." See Ballotpedia interview: Newt Gingrich on the Georgia special election for more thoughts on this race from Gingrich.

Candidate Filing Deadline	Special Election	Runoff Election
February 15, 2017	April 18, 2017	June 20, 2017

Georgia's 6th Congressional District consists of many of the northern suburbs of Atlanta and includes eastern Cobb County, northern Fulton County, and the Dunwoody area of northern Dekalb County.

Elections results

U.S. House, Georgia District 6 Special Election, 2017
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Jon Ossoff	48.1%	92,673
	Republican	Karen Handel	19.8%	38,071
	Republican	Bob Gray	10.8%	20,802
	Republican	Dan Moody	8.8%	17,028
	Republican	Judson Hill	8.8%	16,870
	Republican	Kurt Wilson	0.9%	1,820
	Republican	David Abroms	0.9%	1,639
	Democratic	Ragin Edwards	0.3%	504
	Democratic	Ron Slotin	0.3%	491
	Republican	Bruce LeVell	0.2%	455
	Republican	Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan	0.2%	415
	Republican	Keith Grawert	0.2%	415
	Republican	Amy Kremer	0.2%	351
	Republican	William Llop	0.2%	326
	Democratic	Rebecca Quigg	0.2%	304
	Democratic	Richard Keatley	0.1%	229
	Independent	Alexander Hernandez	0.1%	121
	Independent	Andre Pollard	0%	55
Total Votes				192,569
Source: Georgia Secretary of State

Candidates

Runoff candidates:

Jon Ossoff
Karen Handel a

Special election candidates:

Democratic

Ragin Edwards
Richard Keatley - Former U.S. Navy officer
Jon Ossoff - Managing director and CEO of Insights TWI a
Rebecca Quigg - Doctor
Ron Slotin - Former state sen.

Republican

David Abroms - Certified public accountant
Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan - Small business owner
Keith Grawert - Air Force pilot
Bob Gray - Businessman
Karen Handel - Former Georgia Secretary of State a
Judson Hill - State Sen.
Amy Kremer
Bruce LeVell - Head of Donald Trump’s national diversity coalition
William Llop - Certified public accountant
Dan Moody - Former state sen.
Kurt Wilson - Businessman

Third Party/Other

Alexander Hernandez (Independent)
Andre Pollard (Independent)

Withdrew:
Joshua McLaurin (D) - Attorney
Sally Harrell (D) - Former state rep.
SM Abu Zahed (R)

Ballotpedia's interviews with the candidates

Karen Handel

Handel spoke with Ballotpedia on March 31, 2017, about her campaign.

Judson Hill

Hill spoke with Ballotpedia on April 3, 2017, about his campaign.

Spending

Candidate fundraising and spending

Heading into the election, Jon Ossoff (D) led the field in fundraising by a substantial margin, raising over $8.3 million. Over $5.6 million of that sum was from individual donations of less than $200, which means that detailed information about those donors is unavailable as the FEC does not require donations of less than $200 to be itemized. Of the remaining money, nearly 25 percent came from in-state. Roughly 20 percent came from California, 16 percent from New York, 6 percent from Massachusetts, and 3 percent from Illinois. Dan Moody (R) raised over $2 million, 95 percent of which was self-funded. Bob Gray's (R) contributions totaled $717,500, and he loaned his campaign $500,000. Nearly 60 percent of the remaining money he raised came from Georgia. Judson Hill (R) and Karen Handel (R) raised $523,032 and $463,744, respectively. Hill raised roughly 85 percent of his money from inside the state, while Handel received nearly 90 percent of her donations from within Georgia.

Full data for all candidates who filed with the FEC is displayed below.

Pre-Special FEC Report
Candidate	Contributions	Expenditures	Cash on Hand
Jon Ossoff	$8,320,693	$6,183,941	$2,136,751
Bob Gray	$717,500	$321,028	$396,472
Karen Handel	$463,744	$279,767	$183,977
Judson Hill	$523,032	$359,210	$163,822
Dan Moody	$2,025,263	$1,865,030	$160,232
David Abroms	$260,902	$155,412	$105,490
Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan	$32,785	$26,068	$6,716
Keith Grawert	$51,402	$34,106	$17,296
Amy Kremer	$19,852	$15,233	$4,618
Kurt Wilson	$319,068	$199,149	$119,919
Richard Keatley	$15,890	$9,349	$6,540
Ron Slotin	$78,427	$70,522	$7,905
Alexander Hernandez	$5,666	$5,944	$41
Andre Pollard	$5,250	$5,250	$0

Satellite spending

• April 14, 2017: The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee released a radio ad featuring actor Samuel L. Jackson urging voters to get out and vote Democratic.

• April 10, 2017: The Club for Growth spent another $300,000 on an ad opposing Karen Handel (R) and Dan Moody (R) on taxes.

• April 7, 2017: The Congressional Leadership Fund released another ad, which tied Ossoff to Nancy Pelosi. The ad brought the spending total of CLF up to nearly $3 million.

• April 6, 2017: Ending Spending released an ad supporting Karen Handel (R). The size of the ad buy was $500,000.

• April 3, 2017: The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) released an ad opposing Jon Ossoff (D). The ad calls Ossoff a "D.C. Liberal", and the NRCC reportedly spent $2 million on the purchase.

• March 31, 2017: The NRCC released an ad urging voters to get out and vote Republican in the special election. The NRCC also spent money to put five staffers on the ground in the district in the following week.

• March 30, 2017: According to a Republican operative, the Republican National Committee (RNC) planned on increasing its number of staffers on the ground from six to 15. The RNC also planned to open a second field office.

• March 28, 2017: The Club for Growth, which had previously endorsed Bob Gray (R) in the race, launched an ad targeting Karen Handel (R), the leading Republican in polling. The ad criticized Handel for spending during her tenure as Georgia secretary of state.

• March 1, 2017: The Congressional Leadership Fund, a Republican super PAC, began spending in the race by launching a $1.1 million ad campaign targeting the Democratic front-runner in the race, Jon Ossoff.

• February 2017: The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) paid to put nine staffers on the ground in the district in an attempt to reach voters who had not been targeted in prior election cycles.

Endorsements

Bob Gray

• The Club for Growth - "Bob Gray is the proven economic conservative in this race. He’s been a consistent fighter for lower taxes and less spending, and he’s campaigned on pro-growth policies, and has called for a full and immediate repeal of Obamacare."

Karen Handel

• Mitt Romney (R), former Republican presidential nominee and Governor of Massachusetts, endorsed Handel as part of a fundraising effort released on June 13, saying, "This is a fight we can win – but we need the support of every single conservative right now."

• Greg Gianforte (R), who won a special election to represent Montana in the U.S. House in May 2017, sent an email fundraiser for Handel distributed by the National Republican Congressional Committee.

• The National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund - "Karen Handel supports our Right to Keep and Bear Arms. She has fought for the values and freedoms that Georgians hold dear. In Congress, she will defend our right to protect ourselves and our families."

• Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) - "My choice: I'm supporting the person who knows our district, who's an experienced leader. I'm voting for Karen Handel. Karen has a record of fighting for us, for our families, for our local businesses, for Georgia jobs. On June 20, Karen's got my vote. She is the real deal."

• All Republican members of Georgia's U.S. House delegation: Reps. Buddy Carter, Drew Ferguson, Rob Woodall, Austin Scott, Doug Collins, Jody Hice, Barry Loudermilk, Rick Allen and Tom Graves

• Former Sen. Saxby Chambliss - "Karen is one of those people who simply gets things done. Her reputation from Atlanta to Washington is that she is the kind of person...that you can work with. And she will do what she says she's going to do."

Judson Hill

See also: Ballotpedia interview: Newt Gingrich on the Georgia special election

• Former Speaker of the House and 6th District Rep. from 1979 to 1999 Newt Gingrich - "I am eager to support my long-time friend, Senator Judson Hill. I’ve seen Judson work every day to pass common sense tax cuts and healthcare legislation that helps every Georgian. That’s the kind of proven conservative leadership Georgia needs. Judson will immediately get to work and bring his effective leadership to Washington representing the people of #Georgia’s 6th District."

• Co-founder of Home Depot Bernie Marcus announced his support on March 31, 2017. "America's job creators, particularly small businesses, need relief from healthcare mandates, relief from high taxes and relief from overregulation. Judson Hill has demonstrated he can bring thoughtful and determined leadership on these pressing issues," Marcus said.

• FRC Action PAC, self-described as the legislative affiliate of the Family Research Council, announced its support for Hill on January 5, 2017. Executive Vice President, Lt. General (Ret.) Jerry Boykin - “In this time of opportunity our nation has made it clear it is looking for leaders who are committed to addressing important issues head-on. We have evaluated Sen. Hill’s record as a leader and State Senator serving the people of Georgia and have found his support for bold conservative solutions to be both consistent and persistent. We believe Judson Hill will continue to be such a leader in the United States Congress."

• Sen. Marco Rubio - "Judson Hill is the only conservative Republican in this race who can win – and he’s a proven leader who can help us get our nation back on the right track after eight years of the Obama administration. We have enough talkers up here in Washington. We need doers, and Judson Hill is a doer."

Bruce LeVell

• Corey Lewandowski - Former campaign manager for Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign

Amy Kremer

• Conservative pundit Sean Hannity

Dan Moody

• Sen. David Perdue - "We finally have a real chance. Trust me, we don’t need another career politician up here. Dan Moody cares more about getting results than getting credit. That’s so uncommon and exactly what we need. Dan’s one of us."

Jon Ossoff

• American Nurses Association (ANA) - The ANA announced its support for Ossoff on June 18, 2017.

• Delta Air Lines Pilots' Union - "Based upon his public stance and plans for active support of the pilot partisan agenda of Delta pilots, we endorse candidate Jon Ossoff in the Georgia 6th Congressional District special election."

• Joshua McLaurin - McLaurin dropped out of the race and endorsed Jon Ossoff on January 17, 2017.

• U.S. Reps. Hank Johnson and John Lewis

• Former Gov. Roy Barnes - "He came to see me early in this campaign, and I was impressed with him then and I've been impressed with him in his campaign. I know he will do well in the election, and I know he will do well as a member of Congress."

• Democracy for America

• Actress Jane Fonda - In the weeks leading up to the April 18 election, Fonda donated $2,000 to the Ossoff campaign.

Polling

Runoff polling (Handel v. Ossoff)

Georgia's 6th District special election runoff
Poll	Karen Handel	Jon Ossoff	Undecided	Margin of Error	Sample Size
WSB-TV / Landmark Communications June 19, 2017	48.9%	49.0%	2.1%	+/-4.4	500
The Trafalgar Group June 17-18, 2017	50.5%	48.6%	1.0%	+/-2.9	1,100
WSB-TV / Landmark Communications June 15, 2017	48.0%	49.7%	2.3%	+/-3.46	800
Fox 5 / Opinion Savvy June 15, 2017	49.4%	49.7%	1.0%	+/-4.2	537
The Trafalgar Group June 10-13, 2017	47.3%	50.2%	2.3%	+/-2.9	1,100
11 Alive / Survey USA June 7-11, 2017	47%	47%	6%	+/-4.5	700
WSB-TV / Landmark Communications June 6-7, 2017	47.1%	49.6%	3.3%	+/-4.78	420
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution June 5-8, 2017	44%	51%	5%	+/-4.0	745
WSB-TV / Landmark Communications May 30-31, 2017	47.6%	49.1%	3.3%	+/-4.38	500
Survey USA May 16-20, 2017	44%	51%	6%	+/-4.3	549
Gravis Marketing May 8-10, 2017	45%	47%	8%	+/-3.3	870
WSB-TV / Landmark Communications May 3-4, 2017	49.1%	46.5%	4.4%	+/-3.96	611
GBA Strategies April 29 - May 1, 2017	48%	50%	2%	+/-4.9	400
Note: A "0%" finding means the candidate was not a part of the poll. The polls above may not reflect all polls that have been conducted in this race. Those displayed are a random sampling chosen by Ballotpedia staff. If you would like to nominate another poll for inclusion in the table, send an email to editor@ballotpedia.org

Pre-April 18 election polling

Using the last five polls prior to the April 18 special election, Ballotpedia compared polling averages with election results. Of the polls analyzed, all of them underestimated the support for Democrat Jon Ossoff and all but one of them underestimated the support for Republican Karen Handel. Polling averages for Ossoff and Handel were below election results by 6.0 percent and 3.0 percent, respectively.

Candidate	Polling average	Election results	Polling accuracy
Jon Ossoff	42.0%	48.1%	-6.0%
Karen Handel	16.8%	19.8%	-3.0%
Bob Gray	12.4%	10.8%	+1.6%
Judson Hill	8.8%	8.8%	+0.0%
Dan Moody	9.0%	8.8%	+0.2%

Georgia's 6th District special election (2017)
Poll	Jon Ossoff	Karen Handel	Bob Gray	Judson Hill	Dan Moody	Bruce LeVell	Amy Kremer	Ron Slotin	David Abroms	Kurt Wilson	Unsure or Other	Margin of Error	Sample Size
Clout Research/Zpolitics April 14-15, 2017	41.3%	15.3%	16.6%	9.7%	9.1%	0.8%	0%	0.7%	2.9%	0%	3.6%	+/-4.58	453
Fox 5/Opinion Savvy April 13, 2017	41.5%	21.2%	10.6%	11.3%	9.4%	0%	0%	0.3%	0.6%	0.8%	3.2%	+/-4.6	437
WSB-TV April 12-13, 2017	45.3%	17.4%	8.6%	8%	8.4%	0.5%	0.5%	1.6%	1.5%	1%	7.2%	+/-4.2	500
RRH Elections/Decision Desk HQ April 5-10, 2017	39%	15%	12%	10%	11%	0%	0%	4%	3%	0%	6%	+/-5	321
11 Alive/SurveyUSA March 27-April 2, 2017	43%	15%	14%	5%	7%	1%	1%	0%	2%	1%	7%	+/-4.5	503
MoveOn.org/Lake Research Partners March 26-28, 2017	40%	18%	7%	8%	7%	0%	0%	1%	0%	0%	19%	+/-5.2	350
Fox 5/Opinion Savvy March 22-23, 2017	39.8%	19.9%	10.4%	9.5%	8.0%	0.4%	0.1%	1.3%	1.6%	1.8%	5.8%	+/-4.5	462
Clout Research March 15-16, 2017	40.9%	16.1%	15.6%	9.2%	5.1%	0.6%	0%	2.9%	1.7%	0%	7.9%	+/-3.8	625
Trafalgar Group March 2-3, 2017	18.31%	17.98%	13.42%	7.98%	2.11%	0.45%	3.05%	2.82%	0%	0%	33.9%	+/-4.5	450
Clout Research/Zpolitics February 17-18, 2017	31.7%	24.9%	10.6%	9.2%	2.0%	1.2%	0%	0%	0%	0%	20.4%	+/-3.7	694
Note: A "0%" finding means the candidate was not a part of the poll. The polls above may not reflect all polls that have been conducted in this race. Those displayed are a random sampling chosen by Ballotpedia staff. If you would like to nominate another poll for inclusion in the table, send an email to editor@ballotpedia.org

Issues

Campaign themes

Jon Ossoff

The following issues are listed on Ossoff's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Our Economy: Jon is a small business owner, executive, and entrepreneur — the CEO of a company that produces documentaries investigating organized crime and political corruption. He knows what it means to grow a company, meet a payroll, and balance budgets. Jon has a Master’s degree from the London School of Economics, where he specialized in trade relations between the US and China. Health Care: It is in our strong national interest that every American have quality, affordable health care. Whether it’s a newborn just home from the hospital, a mother battling cancer, or a veteran returned from overseas, our health isn’t negotiable. Our quality of life, our strength, and our prosperity depend on it. Civil Liberties & Civil Rights: Throughout our history, patriots, abolitionists, civil libertarians, suffragettes, and civil rights heroes have made huge sacrifices to advance liberty and justice for all. We should continue striving together toward a more perfect union. Jon will fight for our civil liberties to ensure that every American is free to determine the course of their own life so long as they don’t harm others. Jon will oppose cynical attempts by politicians to win elections by undermining Americans’ hard-fought, sacred voting rights. Women’s Health & Planned Parenthood: Jon will defend women’s access to contraception and a woman’s right to choose and fight any legislation or executive action that would allow insurance companies to discriminate against women. National Security: Jon is a former national security professional who understands the threats America faces and the complexity of international politics. When he was a national security staffer on Capitol Hill, Jon held a top secret security clearance and worked with our military and intelligence community to keep Georgians safe. In Congress, Jon will push for a tough, smart foreign policy that protects our national security while avoiding reckless, destabilizing missteps like the Iraq War.	”
—Jon Ossoff's campaign website

Karen Handel

The following issues are listed on Handel's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Abortion: I am Pro-life and believe that life begins at conception. We have made significant strides in fostering a Pro-life culture. Still, more must be done. I am proud to be the only candidate in this race to be endorsed by Susan B. Anthony List, and I am also certified by the Georgia Life Alliance. Health Care: Obamacare is the single biggest intrusion into the lives of Americans in decades. Healthcare costs and insurance premiums have skyrocketed. Obamacare must be repealed and replaced with market-based, patient-centered reforms. Immigration: True national security means securing our borders. The current immigration system is broken, and we MUST fix it. We need to build a wall along our southern border, demand immigration laws be enforced, improve the reliability of temporary visa programs, and create a viable guest worker program. While I understand and appreciate that we are a nation of immigrants, and believe we should be welcoming of those wish to migrate to our great country, we are also a nation of laws, and our laws must be respected. Jobs and the Economy: After 8 years of the Obama Administration's growth stifling policies, our economy -- and American families -- has suffered. Certainly, the economy has rebounded but it has been more of an economic reset -- with lower growth and stagnated wages -- than a real recovery. Onerous, punitive regulations, costly red tape, and a complex tax structure with rates that are too high are limiting business expansion and job growth. And, wages have not yet fully recovered with many continuing to earn less than they did prior to the so-called Great Recession and still others who have given up on finding work altogether. National Defense / Veterans: According to the United States Constitution, one of the central purposes of the federal government is to provide for the common defense of our nation and its people. No country is safe, nor any economy sound, without the backing of an extraordinarily strong military. I support President Trump's budget proposal to increase national defense spending, and I will continue to fight to ensure that our military has the tools and resources it needs to keep us safe.	”
—Karen Handel's campaign website

David Abroms

The following issues were listed on Abroms' campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	National Security: Protecting the homeland is one of the primary functions of our government. We need to rebuild our military, stand strong by our allies around the world, and take a firm, unyielding stance towards those who wish to undermine our national interest. Immigration: Our first priority should be to secure our borders by the most effective means possible, followed closely by the development of stronger systems to prevent visa overstays, and protect our economy and security. The 2nd Amendment: My commitment to the 2nd Amendment goes deeper than my enjoyment of hunting or shooting for sport. As a young child, I remember my grandfather describing life in occupied Poland during the second World War. When he described what it was like when the Nazis came to round up the Jews, his words stuck with me: 'When they came for us, we had nothing to defend ourselves.' Jobs: First, the American economy has changed and is changing faster than we can keep up. That’s why we need to help people gain the skills they need to keep pursuing the American dream in a 21st century economy, and get the government out of the way. Education: I am in favor of a voucher program to provide kids with access to great schools - no student should be chained to a zip code that’s underperforming or failing them educationally. Ultimately, I believe that we should let families and students decide what’s best for their education and their future, not faceless bureaucrats from the state or federal department of education.	”
—David Abroms' campaign website

Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan

The following issues were listed on Bhuiyan's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Fiscal Responsibilty and Accountability: All elected officials must be fiscally responsible as they are spending public money. National Debt: The current status of our national debt is not sustainable. Congress must take serious steps to reduce the debt burden and balance the budget. Government Waste: My mission will be to expose the waste of every taxpayer dollar and make the appropriate agency or person accountable. We must fight to establish honesty and integrity in our political process and government. Second Amendment: I support the Second Amendment Social Security and Medicare: I support putting Social Security and Medicare on a sound financial footing while protecting our seniors	”
—Mohammad Ali Bhuiyan's campaign website

Keith Grawert

The following issues were listed on Grawert's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	National Security and Defense: I am a strong supporter of the military and believer in the motto of “peace through strength.” Having served in the military in the Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East, I have first hand experience working to deter many of the varied threats we face abroad including North Korea, Russia and ISIS. In order to maintain our military supremacy, we must work to reform the DoD and transform it into an organization suited to operate in the 21st century. Foreign Policy: America and the world are safer when the US leads from the front. Over the past 8 years, we have seen our government outsmarted and outmaneuvered by the likes of Assad and Putin. We've seen misguided rhetoric not backed up by actions lead to a shrinking of our stature throughout the world. I will work to aggressively support our interest abroad while seeking greater cooperation with our allies to address the more complex moral crises of our time. Immigration: Strong borders are essential to our national identity. We must secure our border, enforce existing laws, and reform the immigration system to serve the needs of Americans first. We are a welcoming country, but those we invite in should share our values and vision for the future. I will support the President's plan to build a wall on the southern border and strengthen our vetting procedures. Immigration, when conducted legally, is a national asset. Budget Reform: Federal spending and the growth of government are out of control. I will work aggressively to reduce our deficits and debt. Growing the economy is the best way to accomplish this, but we must also look at cutting the waste in government. I support a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. I will also work to present legislation that moves the government towards a bi-annual budget process. This provides our federal agencies, including the military, the certainty they need to effectively operate and a framework under which we will incentivize better stewardship of your tax dollars. Congressional Reform: The founders feared the danger of a professional political class. Unfortunately, their fears seem to have become reality. I strongly support any measures that will distribute the political power in this country back to where it belongs – with the people. I will support efforts to impose term limits on members of Congress, reform campaign finance rules and place restrictions on former member's ability to work as lobbyists. Members routinely fail to uphold even their most basic constitutional responsibilities. We must get Congress back to work for us, not themselves.	”
—Keith Grawert's campaign website

Bob Gray

The following issues were listed on Gray's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Pass Term Limits: Politicians in DC talk about term limits, but an outsider like Bob Gray understands talk is cheap, and at the end of the day, it’s about what you deliver, not what you promise. That’s why Bob is prepared to sponsor a term limits bill on day one and fight the career politicians every single day until it’s signed into law. Get the Lobbyists Out of D.C.: For too long Lobbyists and special interests have controlled our political system and everyday Americans have paid the price. It’s time to get them out of our political process and fix the corruption that exists within the system. That’s why Bob Gray is committed to strengthening ethics laws that would get lobbyists out of our Capitol and hold our elected officials accountable. Start Firing the Bureaucrats: As a businessman, Bob Gray understands firsthand how bloated bureaucracy impedes progress and stands in the way of success. Bob’s ready put his real world experience to work for us to downsize government, hold agencies like the VA accountable, and bring results back to Georgia. Fuel the Economy: As a businessman, Bob has successfully done business in over 30 countries, helping to create thousands of jobs. He is committed to rolling back the disastrous Obama-era regulations like Obamacare, Dodd-Frank and the War on Coal. This will instantly jumpstart small business growth and revitalize manufacturing, which in turn will produce service jobs. Cut Federal Spending: The biggest threat to our country’s future is the ticking time bomb of debt. If we don’t make the tough decisions now to cut spending it will be too late.	”
—Bob Gray's campaign website

Judson Hill

The following issues were listed on Hill's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Repeal & Replace Obamacare: Judson has become a recognized national leader with his work creating conservative healthcare solutions that put patients first, addresses pre-existing health conditions, and expands choices and access to healthcare providers during his time in the Senate. His top priority in Congress will be immediately replacing Obamacare with affordable healthcare solutions that work. Balance The Budget: The federal government spends too much, taxes too much, and wastes too much. Our nation’s mounting debt is the single greatest threat to America’s future. That’s why Judson will fight for a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution to stop Washington’s out-of-control spending. Keep America Safe: We must reestablish our focus on funding our national defense and security, and stand up to ISIS and extremists who threaten America. Judson is committed to ensuring that the men and women in uniform have all the tools necessary to do their jobs both at home and abroad, because restoring America’s leadership position in the world is an absolute priority. Safeguard Our 2nd Amendment Rights: Judson has always been a fierce advocate for the rights of Georgia gun owners. For his record in the state legislature, he’s consistently earned an “A+” rating from the National Rifle Association. In Washington, Judson will stand up to protect our 2nd Amendment rights. Protect Life: Protecting the sanctity of life is something Judson takes very seriously. That is why he is proud of his 100% rating from National Right to Life and the endorsement of Georgia Right to Life for his record in the State Senate. We can always count on Judson to be a strong voice for the unborn.	”
—Judson Hill's campaign website

Amy Kremer

The following issues were listed on Kremer's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Jobs & The Economy: We need to cut government regulations that stifle job growth. We need to create a pro-growth environment to stimulate the economy. Support Our Veterans: Support Our Veterans – Our military families pay a heavy price for their service and we need to make sure that we show our appreciation for their sacrifice. National Security: National Security – To ensure that we can continue to protect our country from new attacks born of the 21st Century, we must allow or military to remain at the forefront of advanced technological research and cybersecurity. Too many candidates think this simply means increased troop numbers and confuse sheer numbers with greater military prowess; that is a false assumption. 2nd Amendment: Protect & Defend the 2nd Amendment – Many liberals will continue to try and erode our 2nd amendment rights through legislation and crafty marketing. I will fight to make sure that the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed and I will fight any attempt to take away any constitutional right without due process. Healthcare: Repeal and Replace Obamacare – ObamaCare is an unmitigated disaster for Georgia and our country. We cannot sit idly by as more small businesses close due to ObamaCare regulations and regular folks watch their premiums and deductibles skyrocket.	”
—Amy Kremer's campaign website

William Llop

The following issues were listed on Llop's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Comprehensive Congressional Reform Act: I don’t want to be a congressman. I have to be one because I see the effect congress has on my family and my clients. Our congress is out of control and we need to reform it. Instead of being populated by successful citizens who find it a privilege to serve, we are oppressed by career opportunists. Sure they got into politics to make a positive change, but over time, absolute power corrupts absolutely. Congress needs to be held in check. Immigration Reform: We are in a cross roads regarding where we stand on the immigration issue. We are in a stalemate. It takes the federal government to enforce the law and we are not enforcing the law. We have people that are in this country illegally. Some of these people have been here for quite some time. Some of these people have had children in this Country and their children are Citizens. Opt In For a Fair Wage: The federal minimum wage currently sits at $7.25 per hour, where it has remained since 2009. Despite the momentum built up by the Fight for $15 initiative in recent years, Congress has been reluctant to raise Americans' pay. President Donald Trump has backed off his assertion in July to raise minimum wage. Investing in Action by Taxing Inaction: We are experiencing massive deficits in this country and we all have to participate in erasing this economic crisis. While we all agree that there need to be reductions in spending—both discretionary and entitlement, we have to take immediate steps to reduce our current debt. Accelerate Depreciation: The have seen the real estate market in a free fall in recent years. We have seen record foreclosures litter the balance sheets of our nation’s banks and these rundown properties litter our neighborhoods and towns. We need investors to reenter the residential and commercial real estate markets.	”
—William Llop's campaign website

Dan Moody

The following issues were listed on Moody's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	National Security: A retired Captain from the U.S. Army Reserve, Dan Moody will fight to rebuild our military, defeat radical Islamic terrorism and reverse cuts in defense spending. Fiscal Discipline: As a small business owner, Dan hates unbalanced budgets. He will bring fiscal responsibility to Washington by cutting wasteful spending to reduce the deficit and pay down the debt. Tax Reform: Our tax system is a jobs killer. Dan will cut taxes and simplify the tax code for everyone. The only way to pay down our debt is to grow our economy. Protect Our Borders: There is no way to address immigration without first securing our borders. President Trump is correct that we need a wall and the increased number of ICE and border patrol agents he has called for. We also need to be able to fully vet refugees seeking to enter our country. Religious tests are un-American but knowing the backgrounds of those coming here — especially from countries with a history of exporting terrorism — is just plain common sense. Education: We need to take education away from the federal government and put it back in local hands. Our children are our most important resource and Dan knows that we cannot trust Washington’s current level of control in our schools. Parents and teachers working together improve education and that should be the priority.	”
—Dan Moody's campaign website

Kurt Wilson

The following issues were listed on Wilson's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Term Limits: There are a lot of issues stealing our freedom. Complicated and onerous tax code that takes money from our pockets and burdens our businesses. Disastrous healthcare policy that has not made things better over the past 50-years but rather made healthcare more expensive. Entitlement programs that exaggerate the problems of poverty rather than foster individual growth and exceptionalism. Infrastructure that has fallen into disrepair, lacks vision and depends on an underfunded Highway Trust Fund. Education policy that forces conformation and thrives on regurgitation versus fostering free thinking, big dreaming and healthy debate. It is time for Congress to attack these issues with pragmatic solutions that are measured, that reduce the size of government. One body, the legislative branch of government, Congress, has the authority to hold the bureaucracy energizing many of these problems accountable. Congress is solely vested with the authority to hold overspending, onerous agencies in check. We do not have a Congress willing to do this. Term limits are the mechanism that force elected officials to have the political courage to make the sweeping bureaucratic changes that will eliminate deficit spending, balance the budget, spur private sector job creation and devolve the power of government back into the hands of local citizens. 2nd Amendment: Unfettered Support Tax Reform: Flat or Fair, Kurt doesn’t Care Healthcare: Repeal the Affordable Care Act Immigration: Supports Legal Immigration	”
—Kurt Wilson's campaign website

Ragin Edwards

The following issues were listed on Edwards' campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Education: Protecting the promise of a quality education for our children is extremely important. If we want our children to inherit a better world we must ensure that their education is protected on a federal level. Unfortunately, America is ranked #24, #25, and #27 in Reading, Science and Math worldwide. We must offer our children a better education to be truly competitive in this digital age. Growing the Middle Class: Tax legislation that favors the middle class is something I will fight for while in office. We cannot spend frivilously or vote for laws that will adversely impact the 6th District. Legislation favorable to home owners is another area where we will be able to ensure that the 6th District continues to thrive, and becomes even better! Healthcare: Healthcare reform is one of the most talked about issues in American politics today. We must make sure that Healthcare becomes affordable for all Americans. No person should die because they cannot afford treatment, or because they have a pre-existing condition. Racial and Gender Equality: Protecting the rights of women, LGBT, and minorities is necessary and advantageous for all Americans. In 2016 Georgia was #1 in the nation for growth of women owned businesses. Georgia is #2 if the United States for African American owned businesses. This is not by coincidence. To increase the wealth of our state, we must make sure legislation effecting these groups is beneficial, not detrimental to their success. Technology: My experience includes working with global technology driven services companies, in the financial sector, healthcare, and meteorology. I am currently an active member of TAG, Women in Technology and other technology focused groups. I have always had a deep interest in this area and I will be able to bring a functional knowledge to Congress to ensure that America continues to be a pioneer in technology, and engineering.	”
—Ragin Edwards' campaign website

Rebecca Quigg

The following issues were listed on Quigg's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Taking Care of Seniors: Seniors are some of America’s most cherished citizens, and there is no better way to thank the seniors of Georgia for their decades of hard work than by ensuring their future health and prosperity. Women and Families: In Congress, Dr. Quigg will work on bipartisan solutions to achieve equal pay for equal work. As a trailblazing woman in the health field, she knows how to address gender inequality in an effective and lasting manner. Education: Education is the backbone of our communities. If we want to raise a new generation of American leaders, we have to start in the classroom. As a mother of two, Dr. Quigg knows the importance of a quality K-12 education. Congressional District 6 has some of the best public & private schools in the state of Georgia. In Congress, she will work to ensure that our schools continue to be the best and strive to be even better. Veterans: The most important thing that we can do for our veterans is making sure they get the care and support they need when they come back home. The first step we have to take is revamping our VA hospitals. As a physician, Dr. Quigg knows what services patients need the most, and she will support legislature in Congress to lower wait times, increase affordability of treatment. Taking Money out of Politics: Dr. Quigg understands that as a Congresswomen, she will represent the people of District 6, and that’s why she will hold monthly town hall meetings and discuss important issues with her constituents on a regular basis. The Founding Fathers never intended for corporations and millionaires to have more power in government than the communal body of normal Americans. She vows to listen to the voice of those she represents over special interests or partisan politics.	”
—Rebecca Quigg's campaign website

Ron Slotin

The following issues were listed on Slotin's campaign website. For a full list of campaign themes, click here.

“	Creating Jobs: The Sixth Congressional District is one of the most vibrant business districts in America and home to Fortune 500 companies, fast growing technology companies, a strong base of small business owners and entrepreneurs. Ron has a strong business background to help attract world class companies and has a record of creating jobs in the district. Ron owned an advertising agency in Sandy Springs for 12 years and was one of the original board members in the Sandy Springs Chamber of Commerce. Ron was also part of the team that created the 2009 Entertainment Tax Credits that created thousands of new jobs in Georgia. Education: Ron Slotin is a graduate of the Atlanta Public School System and proud father of children currently in Cobb County’s Lassiter High School. Ron understands firsthand the importance of quality public schools. As a member of the Georgia State Senate, Ron was involved in helping to pass the HOPE scholarships. He also sat on the Senate's Education Committee. As a Congressman, Ron will advocate for more federal resources for Georgia Schools. Health Care: Ron will work to make sure we maintain many of the health care protections afforded under the existing Affordable Care Act, including pre-existing conditions. The ACA brought many positive coverages like pre-existing conditions for children up to 26 years of age and paid preventive care. Currently, over 20 million Americans have health care coverage that previously did not. We must continue to build upon that framework along with making reforms where needed to make it even more affordable and practical for our citizens to obtain cost-effective coverage. Women's Healthcare: Ron has always been a supporter of women having the right to make healthcare choices for their own bodies. As Congressman, Ron will work to protect women's healthcare coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), including covering preventive care such as mammograms and annual screenings. Ron will also work to ensure that women are not paying more than men for health insurance. Protecting Our Environment: Together, we must protect our clean water, clean air and green spaces. Our district is bountiful with trees, parks, rivers and outdoor life. We must support alternative energy sources. Ron will support tax credits for electrical vehicles and solar energy for our homes and businesses. He will also advocate for the Clean Power Plan to protect our air quality for generations to come.	”
—Ron Slotin's campaign website

Campaign ads

Jon Ossoff

Support

Ossoff's campaign ads focused on his professional experience, including his time spent with top-secret security clearance while working as a staffer for Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-4). Ossoff also criticized President Donald Trump, accusing him of "acting recklessly" and "embarrassing our country." Prior to the April 18 special election, Ossoff had not released any ads opposing his Republican opponents.

"Warrior" - One of Ossoff's three initial campaign ads, released March 3, 2017

"Accountable" - One of Ossoff's three initial campaign ads, released March 3, 2017

"Countdown" - One of Ossoff's three initial campaign ads, released March 3, 2017

Opposition

Ossoff drew a number of ads opposing him from outside Republican groups, primarily the Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF) and the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). The CLF's initial ads featured footage from Ossoff's college days and criticized the 30-year-old for having a lack of experience. CLF also released multiple ads which tied Ossoff to Nancy Pelosi. The NRCC also released ads tying Ossoff to Pelosi and the Democratic establishment. The ads also criticized the money Ossoff raised from outside the district and claimed that Ossoff "doesn't even live here."

"Jon Ossoff: The Truth Strikes Back" - CLFSuperPAC ad opposing Ossoff

"Jon Ossoff: Decisions" - CLFSuperPAC's second ad opposing Ossoff

"Jon Ossoff: A Rubber Stamp" - CLFSuperPAC's third ad opposing Ossoff

"Extremists: Ad Against Jon Ossoff" - CLFSuperPAC ad opposing Ossoff

"DC Liberal" - NRCC ad opposing Ossoff, released April 3, 2017

"Jon Ossoff: How Can We Trust Him?" - CLFSuperPAC ad released April 5, 2017

"Jon Ossoff: Yes Man" - CLFSuperPAC ad released April 7, 2017

"At Stake" - NRCC ad opposing Ossoff, released April 10, 2017

"Jon Ossoff's Resume" - CLFSuperPAC ad opposing Ossoff, released April 11, 2017

"Vote" - NRCC ad opposing Ossoff, released April 13, 2017

Bob Gray

Support

Gray's campaign ads focused on his professional background as a businessman and being a political outsider. His ads also featured footage of President Donald Trump speaking and highlighted his desire to "drain the swamp." Prior to the April 18 special election, Gray had not released any ads directly opposing either Jon Ossoff (D) or his Republican rivals.

"Outsider" - Gray's first campaign ad, released February 12, 2017

"Swamp" - Gray's second campaign ad, released March 7, 2017

Karen Handel

Support

Handel's campaign ads focused on her past political career as Georgia Secretary of State and chair of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. Ending Spending also released multiple ads supporting Handel. Their ads focused on her ability to "get things done" and referred to her as a "proven conservative leader." One also featured former Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R) endorsing Handel in the race. Prior to the April 18 special election, Handel had not released any ads directly opposing any other candidates, but she did briefly mention ads from the other front-runners in the race, calling them "empty promises and gimmicks."

"Talk" - Handel's first campaign ad, released March 29, 2017

"Proven Conservative" - Ending Spending ad supporting Handel

"Gets Things Done" - Ending Spending ad supporting Handel, released April 12, 2017

Opposition

Handel drew the most direct opposition of the Republican front-runners in the race. The Club for Growth, which endorsed Bob Gray (R), released ads criticizing Handel on her spending record while in office. The ads referred to her as a "big spending career politician."

"Trees" - Club for Growth ad opposing Handel, released March 28, 2017

"Gamble GA06" - Club for Growth ad opposing Handel and Moody

Judson Hill

Support

Hill's initial campaign ad focused on his experience as a state senator and his "conservative principles" and featured the slogan, "Take the Hill, Hill." His second ad also focused on his credentials, while briefly criticizing his Republican rivals but not mentioning them by name. Prior to the April 18 special election, Hill had not released any ads directly opposing the other candidates in the race.

"My Campaign is Simple" - Hill's first campaign ad, released March 7, 2017

"Meanwhile " - Hill's second campaign ad, released April 12, 2017

Dan Moody

Support

Moody had the most self-funding and released the most ads in the race. The ads focused on Moody's experience in the Georgia State Senate and his desire to "do the work" and criticized both Democrats and Republicans for "accomplishing absolutely nothing." Moody also released an ad featuring Sen. David Perdue's endorsement. Prior to the April 18 special election, he was the only Republican front-runner to release an ad directly criticizing a fellow candidate, Karen Handel (R). The ad accused Handel of "usually losing" and "not even finishing the job we did give her."

"Shhh" - Moody's first campaign ad, released March 6, 2017

"Year" - Moody's second campaign ad, released March 16, 2017

"Help" - Ad starring Sen. David Perdue, released March 28, 2017

"Honor" - Moody campaign ad, released April 6, 2017

" Running for Herself" - Moody ad opposing Handel, released April 11, 2017

Debates

First Republican Debate

On March 26, 2017, the Republican Party of Georgia's 6th Congressional District sponsored a debate in Marietta, Georgia, involving four of the party's candidates for the district's special election that was held on April 18, 2017. Candidates discussed a range of issues including healthcare legislation, divides within the Republican Party, efforts to change the tax code, immigration, and town halls. The participants included David Abroms, Bob Gray, Judson Hill, and Kurt Wilson. Karen Handel and Dan Moody announced that they would not attend the week prior to the debate.

On healthcare, none of the participating candidates explicitly stated their support for the American Health Care Act of 2017 (AHCA). Abroms criticized the process used by party leadership to create the bill, while Hill and Wilson both provided reasons for their opposition to the AHCA. Gray criticized the process leading up to the legislation as well, but he stated that "80% of something is better than 100% of nothing." The discussion on the tax code provided a separate contrast, with the argument focusing on the border adjustment tax, an idea brought forward by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan as a way to pay for a reduction in the corporate tax rate. Abroms and Gray both declared their opposition to the idea, while Hill and Wilson did not specifically state whether or not they supported its implementation.

Second Republican Debate

The second debate sponsored by Georgia’s 6th District Republican Party took place on April 2, 2017, in Atlanta, Georgia. The party described the debate format as a job interview where candidates received 15 minutes of time to answer an identical series of questions. Participants, in order of appearance, included Kurt Wilson, Dan Moody, Judson Hill, Bob Gray, and Karen Handel.

Kurt Wilson described his opposition to the American Health Care Act of 2017 (AHCA), his belief that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) should be repealed, and his belief that the government should not replace the ACA with another taxpayer-funded healthcare program. On taxes, Wilson called for the repeal of the 16th Amendment, which provides for the federal income tax, and its replacement with a “fair or flat tax”. He called for a constitutional amendment to establish term limits for members of Congress and advocated for cuts to Social Security as a means of balancing the budget.

Dan Moody stated his support for the efforts of party leadership to repeal the ACA and advocated for party unity to support those efforts. Moody specifically noted the ability of Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price to change healthcare regulations. He described his support for tax cuts and reductions in federal spending, specifically citing the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services as agencies whose budgets could be reduced.

Judson Hill advocated for several specific aspects of healthcare legislation, including buying insurance across state lines, supporting coverage for preexisting conditions, and allowing states to control how they spend federal healthcare funds. Hill advocated for a “fair tax” and a reduction in income taxes. He stated his support for increased military spending and cited his service as an officer in the Georgia National Guard. Further, he advocated for a balanced budget amendment and for reductions in non-military federal spending.

Bob Gray stated his belief that the healthcare insurance market should become analogous to the automobile insurance market, where individuals pay for common costs personally and insurance serves as protection against catastrophic events and associated costs. Gray advocated for a reduction in the corporate tax rate, for the implementation of a “fair tax,” and for term limits for members of Congress. He stated his opposition to regulations in the healthcare, banking, and energy industries and emphasized the need to reduce the national debt.

Karen Handel stated her support for Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price and his efforts to pass the AHCA, pledging to work with him to pass healthcare legislation. Handel advocated for changing the tax code to reduce corporate and income tax rates. She stated her support for balancing the federal budget, specifically through reductions in spending and a reduction in regulations that impact corporations. Handel described her belief that these regulatory changes would encourage economic growth.

Third Republican Debate

The third debate sponsored by Georgia’s 6th District Republican Party, which took place on April 9, 2017, in Alpharetta, Georgia, was described by the party as having a roundtable format. Participants included Kurt Wilson, David Abroms, Judson Hill, Bob Gray, and Karen Handel. Candidates discussed a large number of issues, expanding on the topics of previous debates with questions related to President Trump’s actions against Syria, national security issues, budget and economic issues, energy policy, the cost of higher education, and current government services.

On the topic of government regulation, Bob Gray stated his support for repealing the Dodd-Frank Act and reducing regulations on domestic energy as a means of supporting domestic manufacturing. Karen Handel proposed a 10-year sunset on new regulations and argued for reducing the cost of regulations on businesses. Judson Hill proposed that Congress play a greater role in overseeing the agencies that regulate the economy.

A question on energy prices and policy yielded different strategies for supporting domestic energy. David Abroms stated his support for fracking and further extraction of the nation’s oil reserves. Bob Gray advocated for supporting the domestic coal industry and also stated his support for fracking. Judson Hill advocated for eliminating or reducing the size of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in favor of state-level agencies. Karen Handel stated her belief that the United States should move towards energy independence by reducing regulations and changing the tax code.

When addressing government services, Bob Gray stated his support for making benefits provided by the federal government temporary instead of permanent in order to move beneficiaries back into the workforce. Karen Handel stated that in order to reduce dependency on government, some services provided by the federal government should instead be provided by communities. Judson Hill stated his belief in the role that faith communities could play and described his belief that government services should include work requirements.

The candidates received a question regarding the chemical attack in Syria and President Trump’s decision to use military force in response. Bob Gray stated his support for the President’s response, but added that the United States should not get deeply involved in the Syrian conflict. Karen Handel also stated support for President Trump's decision to respond with military force, but she noted that any further involvement would require the approval of Congress. Judson Hill stated his support for President Trump’s response and said that it demonstrated the commitment of the United States as an ally to Israel. David Abroms stated his belief that President Trump should have asked for authorization prior to the use of military force, but added that he would have voted to authorize this specific action.

When asked about the issue of student loans and the rising cost of higher education, Karen Handel stated her belief that it wasn’t the federal government’s job to get involved in the issue and suggested that the solution was economic growth and raising wages. Judson Hill described his belief that rising costs are a result of growing bureaucracies in universities as well as the ease of acquiring student loans. Hill argued that the availability of student loan money necessarily meant higher prices due to the dynamics of supply and demand. Bob Gray suggested that many people would be better off attending shorter, cheaper skills training programs that link to specific job markets.

When asked a question about the ongoing war against terrorism and broader issues of homeland security, Bob Gray described his belief that the focus should be on eliminating the threat posed by ISIS. Karen Handel stated that homeland security efforts needed to start with a focus on securing the borders. Judson Hill advocated for increasing support for local law enforcement, increasing the military’s state of readiness, and protecting gun ownership.

Policy differences of Republican candidates

Policy differences of top-polling Republican candidates

Healthcare

The top-polling Republican candidates all signaled their support for repealing and replacing Obamacare.

Karen Handel stated her support for the AHCA, citing her confidence in former 6th District incumbent and current Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price. "Congress needs to repeal and replace Obamacare before the entire program collapses, leaving tens of millions of us in jeopardy. The recent bill in Congress, although not perfect, would have been a first step forward for the American people."

Dan Moody also stated his support for Secretary Price’s plan to manage federal regulations as part of a plan to repeal and replace Obamacare. He advocated for a limited government role in healthcare. "[Obamacare's] replacement has to focus on improving patient care and doctor/patient relationships and reducing costs and not creating a massive government bureaucracy."

Bob Gray indicated that he would not have supported the AHCA in its current form and stated his belief that the healthcare insurance market should become analogous to the automobile insurance market. "We should model health care after automotive insurance, where individuals pay out of pocket for their “day-to-day” expenses and buy insurance for chronic disease and catastrophic injury."

Judson Hill advocated for giving states greater freedom in how they spend federal Medicaid funds, allowing insurers to sell policies across state lines, eliminating federal coverage mandates, and for providing health insurance to individuals with pre-existing conditions. "Federal mandates drive up the cost of coverage, and the best way for the federal government to help families get affordable coverage and access to health care is to allow for more flexibility. Obamacare is failing, and the best reforms would increase competition by allowing people to buy insurance across state lines and remove coverage mandates."

The tax code

All of the top-polling Republican candidates stated their support for changing the tax code as a means of stimulating economic growth.

Bob Gray and Judson Hill both called for a reduction in corporate tax rates and the implementation of a “Fair Tax,” which would replace the federal income tax with a national retail sales tax while providing for a “prebate” that would cause spending up to the poverty line to be tax-free.

Gray described his position, "[W]e must introduce a Fair Tax, as Sen. David Perdue has proposed. With appropriate tax credits for the poor and middle class, we will see revenue increase and productivity improve as income is not taxed."

Hill stated, "I would immediately co-sponsor the Fair Tax, so that we tax consumption rather than work. I’d like to see marginal rates on individuals lowered, and I’d like to see us cut the corporate tax... I would eliminate the marriage tax penalty to help American families, and we should end the taxes embedded in Obamacare as part of the repeal and replace."

Karen Handel advocated for a reduction in corporate and income tax rates, a reduction in the number of tax brackets, and the elimination of the estate tax. "When looking at the tax code, I would want to lower individual rates with fewer brackets, lower the corporate rate, repatriate overseas income, permanently repeal the death (estate) tax, and review the tax breaks and incentives."

Dan Moody stated support for a reduction in corporate tax rates and a reduction in income tax rates. "Simplification, reduction of the corporate rate and tax cuts for the middle class are all important. Simpler, lower taxes will create jobs and incomes resulting in more tax revenue in the long term."

See also

• Special elections to the 115th United States Congress (2017-2018)
• Georgia's 6th Congressional District special election, 2017
• Georgia's 6th Congressional District
• Tom Price

Footnotes

[show]

Georgia's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Jon Ossoff (D)

Raphael Warnock (D)

Representatives

District 1

Earl Carter (R)

District 2

Sanford Bishop (D)

District 3

Brian Jack (R)

District 4

Hank Johnson (D)

District 5

Nikema Williams (D)

District 6

Lucy McBath (D)

District 7

Rich McCormick (R)

District 8

Austin Scott (R)

District 9

Andrew Clyde (R)

District 10

Mike Collins (R)

District 11

Barry Loudermilk (R)

District 12

Rick Allen (R)

District 13

David Scott (D)

District 14

Marjorie Greene (R)

Republican Party (9)

Democratic Party (7)