Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2020 (June 9 Republican primary)

	2022 → ← 2018
Georgia's 9th Congressional District
	Democratic primary; Republican primary; Republican primary runoff; General election
Election details
	Filing deadline: March 6, 2020
	Primary: June 9, 2020; Primary runoff: August 11, 2020; General: November 3, 2020; General runoff: January 5, 2021; Pre-election incumbent:; Doug Collins (Republican)
How to vote
	Poll times: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Voting in Georgia
Race ratings
	Cook Political Report: Solid Republican; Inside Elections: Solid Republican; Sabato's Crystal Ball: Safe Republican
Ballotpedia analysis
	U.S. Senate battlegrounds; U.S. House battlegrounds; Federal and state primary competitiveness; Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2020
See also
	Georgia's 9th Congressional District; U.S. Senate • 1st • 2nd • 3rd • 4th • 5th • 6th • 7th • 8th • 9th • 10th • 11th • 12th • 13th • 14th; Georgia elections, 2020; U.S. Congress elections, 2020; U.S. Senate elections, 2020; U.S. House elections, 2020; Alabama U.S. House racesAlaska U.S. House racesArizona U.S. House racesArkansas U.S. House racesCalifornia U.S. House racesColorado U.S. House racesConnecticut U.S. House racesDelaware U.S. House racesFlorida U.S. House racesGeorgia U.S. House racesHawaii U.S. House racesIdaho U.S. House racesIllinois U.S. House racesIndiana U.S. House racesIowa U.S. House racesKansas U.S. House racesKentucky U.S. House racesLouisiana U.S. House racesMaine U.S. House racesMaryland U.S. House racesMassachusetts U.S. House racesMichigan U.S. House racesMinnesota U.S. House racesMississippi U.S. House racesMissouri U.S. House racesMontana U.S. House racesNebraska U.S. House racesNevada U.S. House racesNew Hampshire U.S. House racesNew Jersey U.S. House racesNew Mexico U.S. House racesNew York U.S. House racesNorth Carolina U.S. House racesNorth Dakota U.S. House racesOhio U.S. House racesOklahoma U.S. House racesOregon U.S. House racesPennsylvania U.S. House racesRhode Island U.S. House racesSouth Carolina U.S. House racesSouth Dakota U.S. House racesTennessee U.S. House racesTexas U.S. House racesUtah U.S. House racesVermont U.S. House racesVirginia U.S. House racesWashington U.S. House racesWest Virginia U.S. House racesWisconsin U.S. House racesWyoming U.S. House racesSubmit

Click here for coverage of the August 11, 2020, Republican primary runoff.

Matt Gurtler and Andrew Clyde advanced to an August 11, 2020, Republican primary runoff for Georgia's 9th Congressional District following the June 9 primary. Clyde won the runoff with 56% of the vote.

In the June 9 primary, Gurtler received 21% of the vote and Clyde received 19%. The remaining six candidates each received less than 16% of the vote.^[1] A candidate needed at least 50% of the vote to advance to the general election without a runoff.

This primary was one of two Republican primaries for open seats in Georgia in 2020 which the Associated Press identified as a top fundraising battleground.^[2] Six of the nine candidates—Paul Broun, Andrew Clyde, Matt Gurtler, Kevin Tanner, Ethan Underwood, and John Wilkinson— raised over $100,000.

Of the six candidates who led in fundraising, four had legislative experience. At the time of the primary, Gurtler and Tanner had been state representatives since 2016 and 2012, respectively. Wilkinson had been a state senator since 2012. Broun previously represented Georgia's 10th Congressional District in the U.S. House from 2007 to 2015. Neither Clyde nor Underwood had held public office. Clyde owned a firearms business and Underwood worked as an attorney with a focus on property law.

The source of funding varied between those candidates who held public office and those who had not. According to first quarter campaign finance reports, the four candidates with legislative experience—Broun, Gurtler, Tanner, and Wilkinson—raised a majority of their funds from individuals. The two candidates who had not held public office—Clyde and Underwood—largely self-financed their campaigns.

Satellite spending in this race focused primarily on Gurtler, Tanner, and Wilkinson. Club for Growth Action and Protect Freedom PAC spent a combined $598,966 on mailers and ads supporting Gurtler. Club for Growth also made two expenditures of $41,596 opposing both Tanner and Wilkinson with direct mail.^[3]

Several officeholders made endorsements in the primary. Gurtler was endorsed by U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), both of whom were described by the Associated Press as libertarian-leaning.^[4]^[5]^[6] Tanner, who had a background in law enforcement, received endorsements from the Fannin, Gilmer, and Union county sheriffs and from former Georgia Governor Nathan Deal (R), who previously represented the 9th District.^[7]^[8]^[9]^[10] Clyde received an endorsement from U.S. Rep. Jody Hice (R) of Georgia's 10th Congressional District.^[11] Wilkinson was endorsed by Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan (R).^[12]

Also running in the primary were Michael Boggus, Maria Strickland, and Kellie Weeks.

At the time of the primary, three race-tracking outlets rated the general election Safe or Solid Republican. President Donald Trump (R) won 77.8% of the vote in the 9th District in the 2016 presidential election.^[13] Click here to learn more about what's at stake in the general election.

Click on candidate names below to view their key messages:

Broun

Clyde

Gurtler

Tanner

Underwood

Wilkinson

This page focuses on Georgia's 9th Congressional District Republican primary. For more in-depth information on the district's Democratic primary and the general election, see the following pages:

Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2020 (May 19 Democratic primary)

Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2020

This election was a battleground race. Other 2020 battlegrounds included:

Election procedure changes in 2020

See also: Changes to election dates, procedures, and administration in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, 2020

Ballotpedia provided comprehensive coverage of how election dates and procedures changed in 2020. While the majority of changes occurred as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, some changes occurred for other reasons.

Georgia modified its primary election process as follows:

Election postponements: The statewide and presidential preference primary elections were postponed to June 9, 2020.
Voting procedures: Absentee ballot application forms to all active voters in the primary election.
Political party events: The Republican Party of Georgia canceled its state convention, originally scheduled to take place on May 29-30, 2020.

For a full timeline about election modifications made in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, click here.

Candidates and election results

Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Matt Gurtler	21.0	29,426
✔		Andrew Clyde	18.5	25,914
		Kevin Tanner	15.8	22,187
		Paul C. Broun	13.3	18,627
		John Wilkinson	11.6	16,314
		Ethan Underwood	8.6	12,117
		Kellie Weeks	4.6	6,422
	Submit photo	Maria Strickland	3.5	4,871
		Michael Boggus	3.2	4,497

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 140,375
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Tyler Tolin (R)

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles created in one of two ways. Either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey or Ballotpedia staff created a profile after identifying the candidate as noteworthy.^[14] Ballotpedia staff compiled profiles based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements.

Michael Boggus

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I'm 100 percent for the constitution. I will not trade our rights for a little security and a lot of dependency of government. I stand against government overreach and spending. Better tax breaks for the working class. The protection of our God given rights. Its time we give the voice back to the people. Elect a patriot not a politician."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

Stopping government overreach and spending

Protection of our constitutional rights.

A better tax break for the working class people.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Paul C. Broun

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office:

U.S. House of Representatives (GA-10): 2007-2014

Biography: Broun received a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia and a medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. He served as a medical officer in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves until 2014. He began a private medical practice offering house calls in 2002. Broun ran for U.S. House in Georgia's 3rd District in 1990 and 1992 and for U.S. Senate in 1996 and 2014.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Broun said he was 100% pro-life and said, "I believe in protecting every single unborn baby in every circumstance."

Broun said he "fought to eliminate existing barriers and to expand your right to keep and bear arms" as chairman of the Second Amendment Task Force in the U.S. House.

Broun said he would use four questions to evaluate legislation: "1. Is it Constitutional and a proper function of government? 2. Is it morally right? 3. Is it something we need? 4. Can we afford it?"

Show sources

Sources: Broun's 2020 campaign website, "Pro-Life," accessed April 13, 2020, Broun's 2020 campaign website, "The 2nd Amendment," accessed April 13, 2020, Facebook, "Paul Broun," accessed April 13, 2020, Broun's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed April 13, 2020; Athens Technical College website, "Dr. Paul C. Broun, Jr.," accessed April 12, 2020, Broun's 2020 campaign website, "About," accessed April 12, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Andrew Clyde

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Clyde received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Bethel College in 1985 and a master's in corporate finance and entrepreneurship from the University of Georgia in 1999. He served in the U.S. Navy and completed three combat deployments between 1985 and 2008. In 1991, Clyde opened Clyde Armory, a firearms business, which he owned and operated at the time of the primary.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Clyde referenced a court challenge he won against the IRS, which had seized his business assets. Clyde said he worked "with Congress to pass legislation eliminating the ability of the IRS to seize legally earned money." He said he would eliminate the IRS.

Clyde said, "As a veteran and the proud owner of Clyde Armory, Andrew is a staunch supporter of our Second Amendment."

Clyde said, "I defeated corrupt IRS bureaucrats in the legislature and I will take on socialists Democrats and the establishment in Washington."

Show sources

Sources: YouTube, "9th Congressional District Republican Party Debate," April 25, 2020, Clyde's 2020 campaign website, "Issues," accessed May 3, 2020; Clyde's 2020 campaign website, "Meet Andrew," accessed May 3, 2020, LinkedIn, "Andrew Clyde," accessed May 3, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Matt Gurtler

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office:

Georgia House of Representatives (Assumed office: 2016)

Biography: Gurtler graduated from the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega in 2012. He worked as a legislative aide for State Rep. Stephen Allison (R) and as a general contractor for his family's business.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Gurtler described himself as a strict Constitutionalist and said that he "earned the title as Georgia's Most Conservative Representative."

Gurtler said, "I'm 100% pro-life, 100% pro-gun, 100% pro-Constitution."

Gurtler argued that he was "the strongest defender of 2nd Amendment rights running in this race," and said he was the author of a constitutional carry bill.

Show sources

Sources: Facebook, "Meet Matt Gurtler | Matt Gurtler for Congress," March 10, 2020, Gurtler's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed April 12, 2020; PWG website, "Home," accessed April 12, 2020, Gurtler's 2020 campaign website, "Meet Matt," accessed April 12, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Maria Strickland

Do you have a photo that could go here? Click here to submit it for this profile!

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am a resident of Blue Ridge and a lifelong Republican. I served 26 years as a Law Enforcement Officer, now retired. I have my priorities straight. I love my Country, 9th District, and the great State of Georgia I am not a politician but rather a true outsider who is going to Washington DC to represent the people and not to further a career. I proudly support my President, and his policies. I want to help President Trump drain the swamp and stop run-a-way spending, and bring new ideas with a new perspective."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

I am pro Life, Pro Gun and Pro American

I want help President Trump drain the swamp

Stop sending career politicians to Washington and expecting a different outcome

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Kevin Tanner

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office:

Georgia House of Representatives (Assumed office: 2012)

Biography: Tanner received a bachelor's degree from North Georgia College & State University and an M.P.A. from Columbus State University. He was a chief deputy in the Dawson Sheriff's Office and served as the Dawson County manager. At the time of the election, he owned and operated small businesses and a poultry farm.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Tanner described himself as a successful businessman and farmer, mentioning his security company, real estate investment firm, poultry farm, and general contractor work.

Tanner discussed his experience in law enforcement and as a county manager and said he was "a proven public servant, not a politician."

Tanner mentioned his faith and experience as a deacon and said he was "the only legislator to pass religious freedom legislation in the House and Senate."

Show sources

Sources: Tanner's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed April 13, 2020, Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," accessed April 13, 2020, FetchYourNews.com, "State Rep. Kevin Tanner Announced for U.S. Congress," January 30, 2020; Georgia House of Representatives website, "Rep. Kevin Tanner Biography," accessed April 12, 2020, Tanner's 2020 campaign website, "About Kevin," accessed April 12, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Ethan Underwood

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am not a politician - I have spent my career as an attorney representing individuals and businesses when they go up against the government. I battle government overreach when it tries to shut down businesses, farms, and churches. I litigate property tax appeals, and fights condemnations. My whole professional career has been spent preventing government from running roughshod over the people it is supposed to serve. I am a problem-solver who will work tirelessly to protect the ideals of our country and provide real results for Georgia's families. I understand the law, knows how to navigate the political process, and will not back down until we create solutions. I live in Forsyth County, Georgia with my wife of 22 years, Tiffany, and our four children. Our family attends Mountain Lake Church in Cumming, GA. "

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

D.C. is hostile territory and who we send to Washington matters! I am the only candidate who has the skillset to navigate this environment and get results.

I worry what the future of our country holds if we don't fight the rising support for socialism. I am running for Congress to protect the truths of our country, keep the federal goverhment within its limited duties, and to articulate the opportunities that America creates for all its citizens.

I understand the law, knows how to navigate the political process, and will not back down until we create solutions.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Kellie Weeks

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: At the time of the primary, Weeks owned and operated Georgia Gun Store in Gainesville, which she opened in 2010. She and her husband previously owned a mechanic shop until 2008. In 2008, Weeks joined the Tourette's Association of Georgia Board.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Weeks pledged to serve no more than four terms and to institute term limits in Congress. She said, "You can either get the same career politicians who are bought and paid for by the political elite or you can choose me, a true outsider."

Weeks discussed her gun store and said, "With all the talk of gun control, we need someone who understands the current laws and has dealt with them daily." She added, "It is time gun owners have someone on their side."

Weeks said she would improve mental health resources. She said she wanted to "provide more resources for the mentally ill and those in crisis. This will help reduce the prison and homeless population."

Show sources

Sources: Weeks' 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed May 4, 2020, Weeks' 2020 campaign website, "Important Issues," accessed May 4, 2020, Facebook, "Congressional District 9 (R) Primary Debate," May 3, 2020; Weeks' 2020 campaign website, "About Me," accessed May 3, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

John Wilkinson

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Georgia State Senate (Assumed office: 2011)

Biography: Wilkinson received a bachelor's degree in agriculture and a master's in education from the University of Georgia in 1977 and 1982, respectively. He worked as a classroom teacher before beginning his career at the Georgia Department of Education where he was the executive secretary of the Georgia Future Farmers of America Association from 1983 to 2005 and a program manager of agriculture education from 2005 to 2009.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Wilkinson said his time as a state senator gave him the experience to "stand up for the values that residents of North Georgia hold dear." He said, "I understand this district, I know the people of this district, I've served in the state senate for the past nine years."

Wilkinson referenced his agricultural background and time spent as chairman of the State Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee. He mentioned he was appointed by President Donald Trump to serve on the president's Agriculture and Rural America Advisory Committee.

Wilkinson said, "I am a pro-life, pro-gun, pro-Trump conservative Republican," who has "fought to eliminate useless red tape and regulation of business."

Show sources

Sources: YouTube, "9th Congressional District Republican Party Debate," April 25, 2020, Wilkinson's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed May 3, 2020; LinkedIn, "John Wilkinson," accessed May 3, 2020, Wilkinson's 2020 campaign website, "Meet John," accessed May 3, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Georgia District 9 in 2020.

Endorsements

This section lists endorsements issued in this election. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please email us.

PARTY primary endorsements
Endorsement	Boggus	Broun	Clyde	Gurtler	Strickland	Tanner	Underwood	Weeks	Wilkinson
Elected officials
Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan (R)^[12]									✔
U.S. Representative Jody Hice (R-Ga.)^[11]			✔
Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby (R)^[8]						✔
Union County Sheriff Mack Mason (R)^[7]						✔
U.S. Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.)^[6]				✔
State Rep. Tom McCall (R-33)^[15]						✔
Gilmer County Sheriff Stacy Nicholson (R)^[9]						✔
U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.)^[5]				✔
State Rep. Terry Rogers (R-10)^[16]						✔
Individuals
Former Georgia Governor Nathan Deal (R)^[10]						✔
Organizations
Combat Veterans for Congress^[17]		✔
Club for Growth PAC^[18]				✔
Georgia Right to Life^[19]		✔
Gun Owners of America^[20]		✔
Latinos Conservative Organization^[21]						✔
National Association for Gun Rights^[22]		✔
National Defense PAC^[17]		✔
Protect Freedom PAC^[23]				✔

Timeline

2020

June 2020 (click to collapse)
June
- June 9, 2020: Gurtler and Clyde advanced to a runoff election after receiving 22 and 19 percent of the vote, respectively.^[1]
- June 1, 2020: State Rep. Terry Rogers endorsed Tanner.^[16]

May 2020 (click to expand)
May
- May 27, 2020:
  - Georgia Right to Life endorsed Broun.^[19]
  - Clyde released an ad titled "Fight and Win."^[24]
- May 26, 2020:
  - Seven candidates participated in a forum hosted by the Habersham County Farm Bureau.^[25]
  - Tanner released an ad titled "Door Kicker."^[26]
  - Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan (R) endorsed Wilkinson.^[12]
- May 19, 2020:
  - Club for Growth released an ad supporting Gurtler.^[27]
  - The Latinos Conservative Organization endorsed Tanner.^[21]
- May 12, 2020: Underwood released a campaign ad.^[28]
- May 3, 2020: Eight candidates—Boggus, Broun, Clyde, Gurtler, Tanner, Underwood, Weeks, and Wilkinson—participated in a virtual debate hosted by the Atlanta Press Club.^[29]
- May 1, 2020: Tanner was endorsed by Gilmer County Sheriff Stacy Nicholson (R).^[9]

April 2020 (click to expand)
April
- April 29, 2020: Tanner released an ad titled, "Hit the Mark."^[30]
- April 28, 2020:
  - The Club for Growth PAC endorsed Gurtler.^[18]
  - Tanner was endorsed by Fannin County Sheriff Dane Kirby (R).^[8]
- April 25, 2020: All nine candidates participated in a virtual debate sponsored by the Town, Union, and Rabun County Republican parties.^[31]
- April 22, 2020: Wilkinson released an ad on his Facebook page.^[32]
- April 20, 2020: Tanner was endorsed by Union County Sheriff Mack Mason (R).^[7]
- April 18, 2020: Tanner was endorsed by State Rep. Tom McCall (R-33).^[15]
- April 14, 2020:
  - Protect Freedom PAC released an ad supporting Gurtler.^[33]
  - Tanner released an ad titled, "My Story."^[34]
- April 11, 2020: Six candidates—Boggus, Clyde, Gurtler, Strickland, Underwood, and Weeks—participated in a virtual debate hosted remotely by the Young Republicans of Northeast Georgia and the Rabun County GOP over the Zoom meeting application.^[35]
- April 9, 2020: Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger (R) postponed the congressional primary from May 19 to June 9, 2020 due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus.^[36]

Campaign themes

See also: Campaign themes

Michael Boggus

Boggus' campaign website stated the following:

“

Blue Collar Citizen Steps into the Congressional Candidate Ring for District 9

When you think of a “traditional” congressional candidate, you may find yourself thinking of someone wealthy, well known or “tied in” with big companies. Unfortunately, that vision is what has choked the courage out of the “average” citizen from running for elected seats. That stereotype was never intended by the Constitution. For that very reason, and many others, Michael Boggus has stepped forward and officially announced his intention to run for State Representative of District 9- Georgia.

Imagine an America where the Constitution was honored, human life was respected and a politician was not a middleman between corporate agendas and the general public, but instead a voice for the people he or she was elected to represent. All these things can and will be a reality with Michael Boggus in office. Unlike the politicians we have all come to imagine, Michael has no ties to large corporations, no secret agendas and no ego from an exceptional upbringing to distance him from those he is meant to represent. In fact, Michael could be more accurately stereotyped as the red-blooded American man, who works to provide for his family and has experienced tragic events in his life that have motivated him to effect change in this country. Michael stands firm with the Constitution and fully embraces our founding father’s ideology of “We the People.” While some may try to convince you that a “Patriot” is bigoted, inept or extreme, Michael defies those labels through his actions. Over the years he has stood with a vast array of citizens with differing religious, cultural and social backgrounds, all united for the constitution. Michael has been an advocate for transparent government, constitutionally sound reform and equal rights for all US citizens for over a decade. Beyond constitutional battles, Michael is passionate about tackling the opioid epidemic, addressing the failure in the educational system and tackling the absolute disregard for infant lives. While he could choose to sit back and simply shake his head at the atrocities occurring in our government, Michael has taken the chance that the “average Joe” can run, and win.

Michael Boggus is a father, husband, tax paying American citizen and devout constitutionalist. The money in his accounts is humble and was earned honestly. The drive to keep him focused on the finish line of election day is his passion for this country and the Constitution it was built upon. The courage it takes to step forward and take a chance is derived directly from the thousands that know and support him in his endeavor. Michael Boggus is probably the most unlikely person to run for State Representative of District 9. Given the current temperament and trend within our government today, unlikely is exactly what our spectacular country needs.

^[37]

”

—Boggus' campaign website (2020)^[38]

Paul Broun

Broun's campaign website stated the following:

“

Education

Let Teachers Teach!

Education is the great equalizer in our country. Regardless of someone’s background, a high quality education gives them a pathway to success. On education, we absolutely have to get it right.

Education policy has to recognize that each student is unique and original. Meeting the needs of every child requires a variety of educational choices and options that can only be done at the local level.

Moving fowards that requires sending powers back to the states and getting federal bureaucrats out of local education decisions. To act on this during my previous time in Congress, I introduced a bill to abolish the Department of Education.

We also need to stop the ongoing federal intrusion into education. This intrusion is most evident through Common Core and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which reauthorized No Child Left Behind. Or, as I like to call it “No Teacher Left Unshackled.”

These terrible policies are key examples of unnecessary, detrimental federal inrusion into education.

Sadly, when they voted for ESSA, Establishment Republicans voted to reauthorize No Child Left Behind and to keep Common Core in place. On top of that, the Omnibus bill that Establishment Republicans passed locked funding for Common Core and the Department of Education into place.

This is unacceptable!

We must fight to pass a bill to abolish the Department of Education, to fully and finally repeal No Child Left Behind, and to put a complete stop to Common Core once and for all.

Pro-Life

100% Pro-Life

I am 100% Pro-Life and nobody can question my commitment to defending the unborn. I believe in protecting every single unborn baby in every circumstance.

I was proud in my time as a legislator to be endorsed by Georgia Right to Life. Georgia Right to Life is the strongest, most committed Pro-Life group in Georgia. They know that I fight for the unborn in every circumstance and never accept allowing any unborn babies to be killed, unless the mother and baby's lives are in imminent danger.

I will never vote to send a single penny from your paycheck to Planned Parenthood. The Hyde Amendment, which has been the Law of the Land since the 1970s, is not enough to make taxpayer funds for Planned Parenthood acceptable. Make no mistake, every taxpayer penny given to Planned Parenthood frees up money in their budget for abortion. A vote to fund Planned Parenthood is a vote to fund abortion, whether directly or indirectly. Especially after the terrible discovery that Planned Parenthood has been butchering babies for profit, it is morally reprehensible to take money from your paycheck and send it Planned Parenthood.

I pledge that I will continue to fight against funding Planned Parenthood and to provide unborn babies with personhood.

The 2nd Amendment

A Proud Fighter For Second Amendment Rights

As a lifelong hunter, I know that we have a God-given right to own firearms and to protect ourselves. This right is also explicitly protected by our Constitution's 2nd Amendment. In Congress, I not only fought to stop gun grabbers from limiting your rights, but I also fought to eliminate existing barriers and to expand your right to keep and bear arms.

I am proud of my record as a Constitional Conservative Congressman:

Support National Constitutional Carry
Served as Chairman of the U.S. House 2nd Amendment Task Force.
Life member of NRA and Gun Owners of America.
A NRA Rating
A+ Gun Owners of America Rating
Former President of Georgia affiliate of NRA.
Member of Georgia Carry.
Endorsed by National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR).

The U.S. Constitution

As a Member of Congress, Proven Constitutional Conservative

I describe myself and my approach to public service in three very simple words: Christian. Constitutionalist. Conservative. I believe strongly in following the Original Intent of the Constitution. And I'm proud of my voting record to prove it.

The 2nd question I asked of any legislation was "Is it Constitutional based on Original Intent?" If the answer was "no" then I voted "no." In fact, I carry a pocket sized Constitution with me wherever I go in case I need to check. Next time you see me, ask me - I'll show you!

No Amnesty

Establishment politicians and the mainstream media support so-called immigration "reform." But immigration is not the real issue. What we are dealing with is Mass Migration into the United States through illegal means.

Millions of people have either entered or remained in the U.S. illegally. Reform is just a disguise for Amnesty. Other features of proposed reform legislation are often disguised to make Amnesty seem more acceptable.

We simply cannot allow amnesty. It flouts and jeopardizes the rule of law. Beyond that, it's detrimental to our economy. We frankly can't afford the additional burden on entitlement programs and the other expenses that would be thrust upon us by allowing millions of illegal aliens to become citizens.

Its intent is simple: to stop Amnesty, regardless of what other so-called immigration "reforms" pass Congress.

Jobs & Economy

We must defend the free market

The Democrats have absolutely no solutions to create economic growth. Their policies are just plain wrong. Higher taxes, more spending, more borrowing and debt, over-regulation, and ObamaCare are failures that cause terrible pain to our economy. Real unemployment is still far too high, and underemployment is even worse. Too many people have to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet. College students are going into excessive amounts of debt, only to graduate into a suppressed job market.

We need dramatic change that gets the government out of the way so our economy can grow.

That is exactly why we need a jobs bill!

Revitalizing Free Enterprise is the solution to our economic problems and to creating more private sector jobs. A well thought out jobs bill would inject trillions of dollars into the economy overnight by:

Zeroing out the corporate tax
Zeroing out the death tax
Zeroing out capital gains tax
Allowing businesses to write off capital expenditures

Businesses are the backbone of our economy and these tax cuts will enable them to grow again and to create jobs.

American families, business owners, and workers need opportunity and economic certainty. The greatest economic engine in history is our Free Enterprise System. We must set it free to work again at maximum efficiency.

Will you help me fight to get government out of the way so we can create more American jobs?

Government Spending

We Should End Big Spending

Our federal government is completely out of control. The future of our Republic depends on our ability and willingness to get federal spending under control. We’ve simply got to stop the outrageous spending in Washington, pay down the debt, and balance the budget.

Reducing spending is much more than just reducing its rate of growth. We need to actually slash spending and then apply those savings to debt reduction! And we need a Constitutional Amendment to require a balanced budget.

I authored the strongest Balanced Budget Amendment before Congress. Here’s what made my amendment different:

Requires a 2/3 majority to raise taxes and to deficit spend.
Limits spending increases to population growth plus inflation.
Allows waivers only during wars officially declared by Congress.
Requires that any surplus be returned to taxpayers.

Health Care

Repeal and Replace ObamaCare

As a physician, I know that President Obama has misdiagnosed American health care. ObamaCare is the wrong prescription. ObamaCare doesn’t improve health care. It is a massive government intrusion into the most private aspect of our lives. It is the first step in a government takeover of a large segment of our economy.

President Obama is guilty of malpractice, but it’s the American people who will pay the price.

Every promise about ObamaCare was false. Under it, the quality of health care decreases, cost increases, taxes go up, privacy in health care decision-making and the privacy of your personal health records is destroyed. Denial of care and rationing of care is inevitable.

The American people surely never wanted the IRS to become the policeman of their health care. But that’s part of ObamaCare.

We must not have health care controlled by bureaucrats and policed by the IRS. We need private-sector, market-based, patient-centered solutions. Here's what we must do:

REPEAL ObamaCare!
100% tax deductibility of all health care expenses, including health insurance
Significantly increase Health Savings Accounts contributions and eligibility
Save Medicare from bankruptcy by making it a premium-based assistance program.
Let consumers buy health insurance across state lines.
Expand group insurance options by allowing any qualified entity to create an insurance pool and negotiate insurance plans of behalf of any participating member.
Allow physicians to donate charity and pro bono care now prohibited by federal law.

^[37]

”

—Broun's campaign website (2020)^[39]

Andrew Clyde

Clyde's campaign website stated the following:

“

"I fought terrorists in the deserts of Iraq, I defeated corrupt IRS bureaucrats in the legislature and I will take on socialist democrats and the establishment in Washington."

Protecting the Second amendment

The Second Amendment of our Constitution is the teeth in “We the People”, and it must never be compromised by the government. As a veteran and the proud owner of Clyde Armory, Andrew is a staunch supporter of our Second Amendment.

Defending Life

Andrew is proudly pro-life, with no exceptions. He believes that life begins at conception and ends at natural death. If we cannot defend the lives of the unborn, then we have lost our way as a nation. As your Congressman, Andrew will always work to protect the lives of our nation's innocent unborn.

Supporting President Trump

President Trump has done more to promote economic prosperity in this nation than any president since Ronald Reagan. Andrew fully supports our President and his agenda to Make America Great Again!

Eliminating Taxes

As a nation, we are overtaxed. If Americans are to truly be free, we must drastically decrease taxes. Andrew's tax plan would be simple:

1. Eliminate graduated taxes and implement a FairTax system

2. Stop taxation on the production of goods and instead tax consumption

3. Dismantle the IRS

Taking Care of Veterans

As a former Naval officer, Andrew has seen the sacrifices of the men and women who serve in our nation’s military firsthand. He will make it a top priority to ensure veterans receive the care the government promised them when they took their Oath to protect this country.

Limiting Government

Congress has the authority to govern within the 18 articles outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Federal departments or funding for projects that fall outside of those 18 articles, should be eliminated. The department of Education must go. The Environmental Protection Agency must go. These functions should be left to the states and you should be left with more of your tax dollars.

Building the Wall

Liberals and the 'go-along-to-get-along' Republicans in Washington have kicked this can down the road for far too long. We need the wall. We must stop illegal immigration and border crossings.

^[37]

”

—Clyde's campaign website (2020)^[40]

Matt Gurtler

Gurtler's campaign website stated the following:

“

I am a Limited-Government Conservative Republican

In Congress, I will fight to protect your right to keep and bear arms, work to stop government interference in the free market, stand firm to defend life at every chance, advocate to reduce or eliminate taxes, and advocate getting the federal government out of our children’s education.

I’ll most assuredly bring transparency and accountability to government by explaining all my important votes like I’ve done these past four years, and I’ll be sure to let you know What’s Really Going on in DC.

Gun Rights

As your Congressman, I will fight to restore and protect gun rights!

Gun control laws only serve to help criminals and disarm law-abiding citizens. So-called “gun free” zones should be renamed “criminal safe” zones as they strip individuals of their right to defend themselves, their family, their friends and their neighbors against those who wish to do harm.

The second amendment was drafted to ensure the American people could defend themselves against a tyrannical government. The founding fathers understood self-defense was a natural right.

“A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” – Second Amendment to the Constitution.

Jobs

As your Congressman, I will fight to stop government interference in the free market.

Politicians love to use buzzwords, but government doesn’t create jobs, people create jobs. We need to unleash America’s private sector. We can build an atmosphere conducive to job creation by reducing taxes, lifting regulations, and eliminating government programs.

Running the family’s construction company with my father I have seen first hand the impact government has on our business. The convoluted tangle of government regulations, taxation, and bureaucracy has gotten out of control.

I support a fair or flat tax and ending government handouts across the board such as bailouts, corporate subsidies, perpetual debt and so-called stimulus spending. We shouldn’t be giving out billions of dollars of taxpayer money in corporate welfare. It’s literally the tool that career politicians use to give their buddies handouts and stay in power.

Pro-Life

As your Congressman, it is my duty to defend life at every chance.

I believe life begins at conception and every life is precious and should be protected.

I believe the government should not be involved in funding abortions; in effect, forcing individuals to participate against their conscience, by using tax dollars. At every opportunity, I will support efforts to cease government promotion and funding of measures that harm life.

At every chance it gets government seems to try and legislate morality, and the results are far from effective. I believe raising awareness of the sanctity of life along with community outreach is necessary and more effective than government interference.

Taxes

As your Congressman, I will fight to reduce or eliminate taxes.

Taxes are too high and the tax code is too complicated. End the IRS, and repeal the income tax. I support replacing them with a simpler, flatter & fairer tax system. High taxes and huge bureaucracies like the IRS stifle innovation, prevent savings, destroy production, and discourage investment. You have the right to the fruits of your labor.

“Everyone wants to live at the expense of the state. They forget that the state lives at the expense of everyone.” – Fredric Bastiat

Education

As your Congressman, I will fight for local control and parental rights.

Parents should always have the freedom to choose the best educational method for their children whether they choose public, private, charter or homeschooling.

The Department of Education, No Child Left Behind, and Common Core have been detrimental to our students. Schools and teachers should have the flexibility to innovate and curriculum should be decided locally, the closer to home, the better.

Right now our children are learning that they are just another number in a system and how to take standardized tests, instead of learning how to think critically and independently. I believe education needs to be returned to the state level.

^[37]

”

—Gurtler's campaign website (2020)^[41]

Maria Strickland

Strickland's campaign website stated the following:

“

“I’m truthful and fair, and I will keep my word—something we don’t see in Washington from the establishment career politicians who become beholden to special interest groups. I’m not one of them. I’m an American like you.”

Support the President and his policies.

Maria’s a proud supporter of President Trump. She firmly believes his policies have helped our country thrive and become a better place to live. She promises to work hard to help the President continue to drain the swamp and stop runaway spending, fraud, waste, and abuse.

Increase funding for law enforcement and public safety training.

As a retired law enforcement officer and expert in public safety, Maria understands firsthand the need for ongoing training. She knows that continued education enables first responders to offer more services that enrich their communities. She pledges to increase funding for instruction that’s focused on mental illness, the homeless, the opioid crisis, human trafficking, and veteran care.

Improve the quality of life for veterans.

Maria highly respects and is deeply grateful to our country’s veterans. In addition to more funding toward veteran care training, she also wants to preserve extended long-term medical care, make post-service career resources more readily available, and waive all taxes on veterans’ pensions and disability pay.

Give local educators more decision-making power.

Our 9th District teachers, administrators, and schools understand better than the bureaucrats in Washington D.C. what our students need and want. Maria aims to eliminate the Jimmy Carter Department of Education and return educational decisions to local educators. Our students are our future, and it’s vital we give them the right education to fit their needs.

Protect and defend the unborn.

Maria’s pro-life and a proud supporter of Georgia’s heartbeat bill (Georgia HB481). Once in Washington, she’ll work to defund Planned Parenthood and fight to end any tax money allocation to organizations that threaten unborn children.

Safeguard and preserve Social Security and Medicare.

For too long, the Social Security reserve has been treated as a slush fund for Congress. The waste, fraud, and abuse need to stop. Maria’s dedicated to protecting both Social Security and Medicare from it.

Fight to guard our nation’s borders.

The crisis at the border puts an enormous burden on our nation’s financial budget, as well as allows illegal drugs and human trafficking to infiltrate our country. Maria supports the Wall and pledges to fight against illegal immigration. She believes our border patrol agents need proper resources to aid them in securing our border. Additionally, Maria supports I.C.E. officers who diligently keep our nation safe and do so in the face of continual protest from the radical Left.

Balance our budget and reduce our deficit.

Our government needs to take more fiscal responsibility by reducing bureaucratic waste and abuse that currently exists in Washington. Maria’s committed to seeing that our budget is balanced and our deficit reduced.

Stand for our First Amendment rights to religious liberty.

Maria firmly believes in protecting First Amendment rights and is encouraged by the steps President Trump is taking to return prayer to schools. Allowing children to pray in school is the first step to acknowledging that our rights need to be recognized and allowed. She vows to partner with him in these efforts.

Help create a better healthcare plan.

Our country needs a healthcare plan that will lower costs and increase accessibility, which requires common-sense solutions and an end to waste, fraud, and abuse. Maria pledges to fight to open the markets, so people have more options from which to choose. She also vows never to agree to a healthcare plan that doesn’t include provisions for those with pre-existing conditions.

Conserve our Second Amendment right.

Maria’s pro-gun and understands the importance of protecting people’s Second Amendment rights. She’ll fight to keep those freedoms. While the democrats work to control us by proposing new red flag laws, Maria disagrees with implementing new legislation. Instead, she suggests revisiting established laws that already address the mentally ill and domestic violence gun-related issues.

Encourage small businesses.

Red tape and high taxes hurt small businesses. Maria’s committed to supporting our booming economy by helping owners and entrepreneurs by removing red tape and reducing taxes.

Resist the Radical Left.

The Left refuses to move forward after losing the last presidential election and has mounted endless attacks at President Trump, including impeachment. Maria’s determination to stop the Radical Left from destroying our great country with socialism and spreading a hatred that threatens to tear our nation apart.

^[37]

”

—Strickland's campaign website (2020)^[42]

Kevin Tanner

Tanner's campaign website stated the following:

“

President Trump

Kevin was a Day 1 supporter of President Trump and he will be a strong defender of the President and his America First agenda. That’s why Kevin authored H.R. 1251 to end partisan presidential impeachments like the sham impeachment against President Trump.

Taxes & Spending

As a county manager during the Great Recession, Kevin didn’t raise taxes. He cut government and spending and left the county almost completely debt free. In the State House, he supported effort to balance the budget and cut the income tax for the first time in history. In Congress, he will be a champion for efforts that cut spending, the federal bureaucracy, cut the deficit and to require the Federal government to pass a balanced budget. And he will support making President Trump’s tax cuts permanent.

Agriculture

Kevin’s family has farmed for generations. Today, he runs a poultry farm on the land that has been in his family for over 150 years. He will fight for our farmers by reducing burdensome federal regulation and supporting President Trump's fair trade agenda that will expand the market for Georgia farmers and agribusinesses.

2nd Amendment

The 2nd Amendment is not a talking point. It’s a way of life in North Georgia. That’s why Kevin has proposed the strongest protection and expansion of 2nd Amendment rights in Georgia. In Congress, he will not only protect our Constitutional gun rights – he will fight to withhold federal funding from any state that attempts to take away gun rights from law abiding citizens. Kevin is a lifelong member of of NRA and has had the highest rating previously.

Life

Kevin is unapologetically pro-life and believes life begins at conception. Period. And he’s proven it. It’s why he proudly supported Governor Kemp’s Heartbeat Bill. In Congress, he will join President Trump in ensuring every life is protected and defunding Planned Parenthood.

Government Reform

In the State House, Kevin has heard the excuse time and time again that “we can’t do that because of the federal government.” He knows that the federal bureaucracy continues to get in the way of conservative reforms at the state level. And it continues to get in the way of our farmers, businesses and people. Kevin will support President Trump’s effort to continue cutting regulation and bureaucracy. He will fight to eliminate unneeded federal programs, agencies and laws that stifle success and reform.

Immigration

As a former law enforcement officer, Kevin knows that stopping illegal immigration is vital to protecting our families. He will champion President Trump’s effort to fully fund and build the wall on our southern border. And he will support efforts that track, detain, and immediately deport illegal aliens that commit additional crimes in the U.S.

Safety & Security

Kevin is a firm believer in a strong, unmatched military and national defense and a foreign policy that puts America’s interests first. Kevin will support President Trump’s effort to continue rebuilding our military and defense. And he will stand strong to support our vets throughout the 9th District and Georgia.

Religious Freedom

As an unapologetic Christian, Kevin is the only Georgia Legislator to effectively pass religious freedom legislation in the House and Senate. In Washington, he will stand with President Trump to protect people of faith and our religious freedom.

^[37]

”

—Tanner's campaign website (2020)^[43]

Ethan Underwood

Underwood's campaign website stated the following:

“

Ethan Underwood has felt a calling to serve others since he was a teenager. As a lawyer with a business education, he stands up for homeowners and business owners, fighting government over-step and protecting private property rights. Ethan is a vibrant leader who has demonstrated a direct, honest and compassionate approach in his law practice, his business relationships and his involvement in the community.

As a Trump supporter, Ethan recognizes and calls out exactly what the Democrats are doing — from the divisive impeachment vote to a hostile debate on philosophy, they have stalled true action and launched a full battle on our conservative ideals.

He has watched first-hand as the progressive movement has been working to create a populous of citizens who don’t appreciate the very foundation of American values. The narrative of the liberal agenda is that America was built on flawed principles and that our government has never been equal or fair. Now, as some of those citizens are heading into Congress, Ethan is troubled by what his children are being exposed to and what their future may hold. He is running to protect the truth of our country and articulate the opportunities that America creates for all citizens to pursue their dreams.

While Washington, DC is embroiled in a hostile, philosophical fight, Northeast Georgia communities care about problems and solutions in real life. As an attorney, Ethan battles our government when they try to shut down businesses and churches, fighting condemnations, or litigating tax appeals. His whole career has prepared him for this next battle:

The battle for jobs and support for our small businesses that serve as the backbone of our district.
The battle for rural broadband solutions in Northeast Georgia.
The battle to move government out of the way as we aim to earn, save and grow our families & small businesses.

Ethan understands the law and he knows how to navigate the political process, reach agreements, and not back down until he creates solutions. He will stand with President Trump and articulate what America First means when it comes to the needs and priorities of Georgia’s 9th District.

Proven Conservative Leader

Ethan has served as Chairman of the Forsyth County Republican Party, as 2nd Vice Chair of the 9th Congressional District Republican Party, and as a member of the Georgia Republican Party’s State Committee. He is a consistent and respected voice within the Republican Party and a champion for conservative ideals. As a lifelong conservative, Ethan helped elect Republicans to all levels of government.

Ethan is a conservative fighter who knows how to expose the Democrats and get things done for Georgia. As a property rights attorney, Ethan has stood up for taxpayers against government overreach and WON. Ethan is a conservative fighter who knows how to expose the Democrats and get things done for Georgia.

Now, Ethan is taking his fight to Washington to stand up to the Socialists, protect our American ideals, and get results for us.

Ethan’s Fight for Our Values:

Cut Taxes and Create Jobs in Georgia
Pass a Balanced Budget Amendment
Complete the Wall and End Illegal Immigration
Defend Our Second Amendment Rights
Protect Life from the Moment of Conception
Champion Liberty and Protect the Constitution
Fully Fund Our Military and Support Our Veterans
Take on the Opioid and Heroin Epidemic
Expand Rural Broadband

“As a property rights attorney, I’ve fought big-government and won important battles for Georgia taxpayers. As your Congressman, I’ll fight for our conservative values and get results for our families.”

^[37]

”

—Underwood's campaign website (2020)^[44]

Kellie Weeks

Weeks' campaign website stated the following:

“

Gun Rights

I will stop any new gun laws that infringe on the rights of all citizens. We need to enforce current laws to prevent criminals from obtaining guns.

We need to punish the criminals, not everyone else.

Term Limits

Serving in Congress is a civic duty, not a career! It is time Congress recognizes they work for the people, not themselves. On day one, I will introduce legislation for term limits. 2 terms for Senate , 4 terms for House

Mental Health Reform

I want to rebuild our Mental Health Infrastructure, to provide more resources for veterans, the chronically ill and those in crisis. This will help reduce veteran suicide and the prison and homeless Population.

^[37]

”

—Weeks' campaign website (2020)^[45]

John Wilkinson

Wilkinson's campaign website stated the following:

“

This is a critical time for our country, and we need an experienced, conservative voice willing to stand up for the values that residents of North Georgia hold dear. For the past eight years in Atlanta, I have fought to eliminate useless red tape and regulation of business, defended the sanctity of all life, and fought for our constitutional rights guaranteed by the 2nd Amendment. I look forward to continuing that fight in Washington.

^[37]

”

—Wilkinson's campaign website (2020)^[46]

Campaign advertisements

This section shows advertisements released in this race. Ads released by campaigns and, if applicable, satellite groups are embedded or linked below. If you are aware of advertisements that should be included, please email us.

Paul Broun

"'Liberty Machine' Giveaway" - Broun campaign ad, released April 3, 2020

Andrew Clyde

"'Fight and Win" - Clyde campaign ad, released May 27, 2020^[24]

A sample ad from the candidate's Facebook page is embedded below. Click here to see the candidate's Facebook Video page.

Matt Gurtler

A sample ad from the candidate's Facebook page is embedded below. Click here to see the candidate's Facebook Video page.

Kevin Tanner

"'Door Kicker" - Tanner campaign ad, released May 26, 2020^[26]

"'Hit the Mark" - Tanner campaign ad, released April 29, 2020^[30]

"'My Story" - Tanner campaign ad, released April 14, 2020^[34]

A sample ad from the candidate's Facebook page is embedded below. Click here to see the candidate's Facebook Video page.

Ethan Underwood

"'Ethan Underwood Will Stand with President Trump" - Underwood campaign ad, released May 12, 2020^[28]

John Wilkinson

A sample ad from the candidate's Facebook page is embedded below. Click here to see the candidate's Facebook Video page.^[32]

Satellite group ads

Click "show" to the right to see satellite group ads.

Supporting Gurtler

"Conservative" - Club for Growth ad, released May 19, 2020^[27]

"Most Conservative" - Protect Freedom PAC ad, released April 14, 2020^[33]

Polls

See also: Ballotpedia's approach to covering polls

If you are aware of polls conducted in this race, please email us.

Campaign finance

This section contains campaign finance figures from the Federal Election Commission covering all candidate fundraising and spending in this election.^[47] It does not include information on fundraising before the current campaign cycle or on spending by satellite groups. The numbers in this section are updated as candidates file new campaign finance reports. Candidates for Congress are required to file financial reports on a quarterly basis, as well as two weeks before any primary, runoff, or general election in which they will be on the ballot and upon the termination of any campaign committees.^[48] The chart below contains data from financial reports submitted to the Federal Election Commission.

Name	Party	Receipts*	Disbursements**	Cash on hand	Date
Michael Boggus	Republican Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Paul C. Broun	Republican Party	$199,267	$199,235	$1,349	As of December 31, 2020
Andrew Clyde	Republican Party	$1,933,971	$1,925,863	$8,108	As of December 31, 2020
Matt Gurtler	Republican Party	$820,527	$819,821	$706	As of December 31, 2020
Maria Strickland	Republican Party	$33,607	$33,646	$-883	As of June 28, 2020
Kevin Tanner	Republican Party	$449,589	$448,023	$1,566	As of December 31, 2020
Ethan Underwood	Republican Party	$334,150	$334,150	$0	As of September 30, 2020
Kellie Weeks	Republican Party	$6,720	$6,720	$0	As of December 30, 2020
John Wilkinson	Republican Party	$174,743	$174,743	$0	As of July 7, 2020
Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2020. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC). * According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee." According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election. * Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

Source of campaign contributions

The chart below shows the source of campaign contributions by candidate as of May 20, 2020. The blue bar represents contributions received from individuals. The green bar represents contributions received from other political committees. The yellow bar represents contributions or loans made by the candidate to their own campaign. Hover over a bar to see the specific amount.

Satellite spending

See also: Satellite spending

Satellite spending, commonly referred to as outside spending, describes political spending not controlled by candidates or their campaigns; that is, any political expenditures made by groups or individuals that are not directly affiliated with a candidate. This includes spending by political party committees, super PACs, trade associations, and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups.^[49]^[50]^[51]

This section lists satellite spending in this race reported by news outlets in alphabetical order. If you are aware of spending that should be included, please email us.

Club for Growth Action spent $353,146 supporting and opposing various candidates:^[3]
- $269,855 on radio and television ads supporting Gurtler.
- $41,596 primarily on mail opposing Wilkinson.
- $41,596 primarily on mail opposing Tanner.

Concerned American Voters spent $4,889 supporting Gurtler.^[3]

FreedomWorks for America spent $5,000 supporting Gurtler.^[3]

Keep Northeast Georgia Great spent $32,706 on direct mail opposing Gurtler.^[3]

Liberty for Us spent $17,000 on telephone calls supporting Gurtler.^[3]

Protect Freedom PAC spent $329,111 on mailers and ads supporting Gurtler.^[3]

Debates and forums

May 26 candidate forum

On May 26, Boggus, Clyde, Gurtler, Tanner, Underwood, and Wilkinson participated in a candidate forum hosted by the Habersham County Farm Bureau at the Habersham County Courthouse. Democratic candidate Brooke Siskin also participated. 9th District candidates join at the 1:30:00 mark.^[25]

May 3 virtual debate

On May 3, eight candidates—Boggus, Broun, Clyde, Gurtler, Tanner, Underwood, Weeks, and Wilkinson—participated in a virtual debate hosted by the Atlanta Press Club.^[29]

Official recording, May 3, 2020, debate - Atlanta Press Club

Click the links below for roundups of the debate from:

April 25 virtual debate

On April 25, all nine candidates participated in a virtual debate sponsored by the Towns, Union, and Rabun County Republican parties. The debate was presented over the Zoom meeting application by Fetch Your News T.V. and moderated by Brian Pritchard, the network's C.E.O.^[31]

Official livestream, April 25, 2020, debate - Fetch Your News T.V.

April 11 virtual debate

On April 11, six candidates—Boggus, Clyde, Gurtler, Strickland, Underwood, and Weeks—participated in a virtual debate hosted remotely by the Young Republicans of Northeast Georgia and the Rabun County GOP over the Zoom meeting application.^[35]

Primaries in Georgia

A primary election is an election in which registered voters select a candidate that they believe should be a political party's candidate for elected office to run in the general election. They are also used to choose convention delegates and party leaders. Primaries are state-level and local-level elections that take place prior to a general election. Georgia utilizes an open primary system, in which registered voters do not have to be members of a party to vote in that party's primary.^[52]^[53]

For information about which offices are nominated via primary election, see this article.

What's at stake in the general election?

U.S. House elections were held on November 3, 2020, and coincided with the 2020 presidential election. All 435 House districts were up for election, and the results determined control of the U.S. House in the 117th Congress.

At the time of the election, Democrats had a 232-197 advantage over Republicans. There was one Libertarian member, and there were five vacancies. Republicans needed to gain a net 21 seats to win control of the House. Democrats needed to gain seats or lose fewer than 14 net seats to keep their majority.

In the 2018 midterm election, Democrats had a net gain of 40 seats, winning a 235-200 majority in the House. Heading into the 2018 election, Republicans had a 235-193 majority with seven vacancies.

In the 25 previous House elections that coincided with a presidential election, the president's party had gained House seats in 16 elections and lost seats in nine. In years where the president's party won districts, the average gain was 18. In years where the president's party lost districts, the average loss was 27. Click here for more information on presidential partisanship and down-ballot outcomes.

General election race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.^[54]
Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.^[55]^[56]^[57]

Race ratings: Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2020
Race tracker	Race ratings
	November 3, 2020	October 27, 2020	October 20, 2020	October 13, 2020
The Cook Political Report	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball	Safe Republican	Safe Republican	Safe Republican	Safe Republican
Note: Ballotpedia updates external race ratings every week throughout the election season.

District analysis

See also: The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

See also: FiveThirtyEight's elasticity scores

The 2017 Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district was R+31, meaning that in the previous two presidential elections, this district's results were 31 percentage points more Republican than the national average. This made Georgia's 9th Congressional District the third most Republican nationally.^[58]

FiveThirtyEight's September 2018 elasticity score for states and congressional districts measured "how sensitive it is to changes in the national political environment." This district's elasticity score was 0.90. This means that for every 1 point the national political mood moved toward a party, the district was expected to move 0.90 points toward that party.^[59]

Pivot Counties

See also: Pivot Counties by state

Five of 159 Georgia counties—3.14 percent—are pivot counties. These are counties that voted for Barack Obama (D) in 2008 and 2012 and for Donald Trump (R) in 2016. Altogether, the nation had 206 pivot counties, with most being concentrated in upper midwestern and northeastern states.

Counties won by Trump in 2016 and Obama in 2012 and 2008
County	Trump margin of victory in 2016	Obama margin of victory in 2012	Obama margin of victory in 2008
Baker County, Georgia	8.68%	0.57%	1.07%
Dooly County, Georgia	2.05%	6.98%	3.53%
Peach County, Georgia	2.91%	7.48%	6.75%
Quitman County, Georgia	10.92%	9.04%	7.90%
Twiggs County, Georgia	1.58%	8.64%	6.97%

In the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump (R) won Georgia with 50.8 percent of the vote. Hillary Clinton (D) received 45.6 percent. In presidential elections between 1900 and 2016, Georgia voted Democratic 63.33 percent of the time and Republican 36.67 percent of the time. Georgia voted Republican in every presidential election from 2000 to 2016.

Presidential results by legislative district

The following table details results of the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections by state House districts in Georgia. Click [show] to expand the table. The "Obama," "Romney," "Clinton," and "Trump" columns describe the percent of the vote each presidential candidate received in the district. The "2012 Margin" and "2016 Margin" columns describe the margin of victory between the two presidential candidates in those years. The "Party Control" column notes which party held that seat heading into the 2018 general election. Data on the results of the 2012 and 2016 presidential elections broken down by state legislative districts was compiled by Daily Kos.^[60]^[61]

In 2012, Barack Obama (D) won 64 out of 180 state House districts in Georgia with an average margin of victory of 45.5 points. In 2016, Hillary Clinton (D) won 74 out of 180 state House districts in Georgia with an average margin of victory of 42.3 points. Clinton won 14 districts controlled by Republicans heading into the 2018 elections.

In 2012, Mitt Romney (R) won 116 out of 180 state House districts in Georgia with an average margin of victory of 36.6 points. In 2016, Donald Trump (R) won 106 out of 180 state House districts in Georgia with an average margin of victory of 36.8 points. Trump won four districts controlled by Democrats heading into the 2018 elections.

2016 presidential results by state House district
District	Obama	Romney	2012 Margin	Clinton	Trump	2016 Margin	Party Control
1	24.59%	73.49%	R+48.9	18.33%	78.10%	R+59.8	R
2	22.14%	76.22%	R+54.1	15.51%	81.50%	R+66	R
3	23.05%	75.08%	R+52	18.64%	77.94%	R+59.3	R
4	32.11%	66.73%	R+34.6	33.09%	63.58%	R+30.5	R
5	20.99%	77.56%	R+56.6	17.38%	79.95%	R+62.6	R
6	22.66%	75.78%	R+53.1	19.28%	78.15%	R+58.9	R
7	18.83%	79.93%	R+61.1	16.26%	81.63%	R+65.4	R
8	19.75%	78.79%	R+59	17.01%	80.65%	R+63.6	R
9	15.29%	83.06%	R+67.8	14.76%	81.57%	R+66.8	R
10	16.34%	82.49%	R+66.1	14.77%	82.43%	R+67.7	R
11	17.74%	80.81%	R+63.1	14.12%	83.40%	R+69.3	R
12	25.59%	72.86%	R+47.3	20.35%	77.06%	R+56.7	R
13	35.70%	62.94%	R+27.2	33.39%	63.13%	R+29.7	R
14	20.15%	78.39%	R+58.2	17.29%	79.95%	R+62.7	R
15	26.96%	71.58%	R+44.6	24.54%	72.30%	R+47.8	R
16	23.79%	74.95%	R+51.2	18.10%	79.74%	R+61.6	R
17	23.36%	75.50%	R+52.1	23.02%	73.98%	R+51	R
18	29.93%	68.66%	R+38.7	26.14%	70.83%	R+44.7	R
19	29.46%	69.22%	R+39.8	31.16%	65.71%	R+34.6	R
20	23.09%	75.03%	R+51.9	26.37%	68.76%	R+42.4	R
21	19.48%	78.70%	R+59.2	22.00%	73.27%	R+51.3	R
22	16.80%	81.60%	R+64.8	21.44%	74.42%	R+53	R
23	20.52%	77.66%	R+57.1	22.07%	73.64%	R+51.6	R
24	17.81%	80.67%	R+62.9	21.56%	73.96%	R+52.4	R
25	21.70%	77.05%	R+55.3	32.10%	63.74%	R+31.6	R
26	14.56%	83.89%	R+69.3	18.43%	77.66%	R+59.2	R
27	15.62%	83.00%	R+67.4	16.26%	80.92%	R+64.7	R
28	17.56%	81.23%	R+63.7	15.37%	82.27%	R+66.9	R
29	31.73%	66.98%	R+35.3	32.94%	63.21%	R+30.3	R
30	21.69%	76.74%	R+55	24.56%	71.98%	R+47.4	R
31	16.84%	81.82%	R+65	15.76%	81.14%	R+65.4	R
32	24.07%	74.41%	R+50.3	19.58%	78.30%	R+58.7	R
33	31.40%	67.45%	R+36.1	26.87%	70.96%	R+44.1	R
34	33.92%	64.28%	R+30.4	39.66%	55.82%	R+16.2	R
35	38.10%	60.28%	R+22.2	42.81%	52.42%	R+9.6	R
36	24.38%	74.30%	R+49.9	29.80%	66.20%	R+36.4	R
37	43.83%	54.52%	R+10.7	48.89%	46.46%	D+2.4	R
38	60.41%	38.62%	D+21.8	64.07%	33.08%	D+31	D
39	75.10%	23.95%	D+51.1	78.09%	19.54%	D+58.5	D
40	45.00%	53.24%	R+8.2	54.52%	40.56%	D+14	R
41	62.15%	36.51%	D+25.6	64.86%	31.62%	D+33.2	D
42	68.42%	29.97%	D+38.4	68.61%	26.72%	D+41.9	D
43	38.77%	59.40%	R+20.6	46.47%	48.56%	R+2.1	R
44	33.75%	63.93%	R+30.2	39.79%	54.74%	R+14.9	R
45	30.98%	67.21%	R+36.2	41.50%	53.61%	R+12.1	R
46	27.84%	70.25%	R+42.4	34.24%	60.65%	R+26.4	R
47	28.08%	70.51%	R+42.4	38.02%	57.47%	R+19.4	R
48	37.71%	60.31%	R+22.6	45.85%	48.81%	R+3	R
49	34.61%	63.82%	R+29.2	44.57%	50.58%	R+6	R
50	35.98%	62.65%	R+26.7	47.45%	48.69%	R+1.2	R
51	41.99%	56.48%	R+14.5	50.15%	44.99%	D+5.2	R
52	36.77%	61.94%	R+25.2	49.71%	45.43%	D+4.3	R
53	73.52%	25.53%	D+48	77.16%	18.98%	D+58.2	D
54	40.58%	58.07%	R+17.5	54.55%	40.79%	D+13.8	R
55	83.91%	15.09%	D+68.8	84.84%	11.77%	D+73.1	D
56	87.70%	11.09%	D+76.6	87.74%	8.94%	D+78.8	D
57	82.83%	15.94%	D+66.9	85.62%	11.02%	D+74.6	D
58	87.26%	11.21%	D+76.1	88.49%	7.87%	D+80.6	D
59	87.41%	10.84%	D+76.6	87.27%	9.08%	D+78.2	D
60	88.96%	10.53%	D+78.4	90.79%	7.32%	D+83.5	D
61	82.95%	16.50%	D+66.5	82.57%	15.51%	D+67.1	D
62	81.40%	18.05%	D+63.4	82.69%	15.44%	D+67.3	D
63	71.58%	27.78%	D+43.8	73.97%	24.02%	D+49.9	D
64	69.30%	30.15%	D+39.1	70.36%	27.44%	D+42.9	D
65	80.57%	18.97%	D+61.6	81.08%	17.15%	D+63.9	D
66	53.46%	45.64%	D+7.8	56.72%	40.59%	D+16.1	D
67	31.46%	67.23%	R+35.8	31.50%	65.51%	R+34	R
68	27.70%	71.08%	R+43.4	26.14%	70.90%	R+44.8	R
69	25.45%	73.10%	R+47.7	23.33%	73.96%	R+50.6	R
70	31.26%	67.48%	R+36.2	31.56%	64.90%	R+33.3	R
71	21.50%	77.16%	R+55.7	22.29%	73.84%	R+51.5	R
72	22.11%	76.41%	R+54.3	25.46%	70.56%	R+45.1	R
73	34.83%	64.14%	R+29.3	37.99%	59.21%	R+21.2	R
74	86.99%	12.68%	D+74.3	86.51%	11.95%	D+74.6	D
75	83.95%	15.53%	D+68.4	83.71%	14.28%	D+69.4	D
76	80.47%	19.06%	D+61.4	80.34%	17.67%	D+62.7	D
77	90.59%	9.03%	D+81.6	89.32%	9.13%	D+80.2	D
78	75.77%	23.63%	D+52.1	77.40%	20.70%	D+56.7	D
79	41.91%	56.52%	R+14.6	52.42%	42.92%	D+9.5	R
80	42.54%	55.68%	R+13.1	54.21%	40.41%	D+13.8	R
81	51.71%	46.40%	D+5.3	59.53%	35.29%	D+24.2	D
82	61.00%	37.01%	D+24	71.24%	24.55%	D+46.7	D
83	86.80%	12.13%	D+74.7	88.45%	8.62%	D+79.8	D
84	86.06%	12.96%	D+73.1	88.43%	8.98%	D+79.5	D
85	85.47%	13.30%	D+72.2	86.00%	10.70%	D+75.3	D
86	77.13%	21.82%	D+55.3	79.72%	17.14%	D+62.6	D
87	83.03%	16.15%	D+66.9	83.50%	14.06%	D+69.4	D
88	77.84%	21.44%	D+56.4	79.10%	18.35%	D+60.8	D
89	89.42%	9.07%	D+80.3	90.41%	6.40%	D+84	D
90	76.41%	23.09%	D+53.3	76.26%	22.14%	D+54.1	D
91	71.58%	27.81%	D+43.8	73.80%	24.25%	D+49.5	D
92	81.39%	18.08%	D+63.3	81.15%	16.93%	D+64.2	D
93	76.70%	22.66%	D+54	78.87%	19.09%	D+59.8	D
94	79.72%	19.56%	D+60.2	80.73%	17.01%	D+63.7	D
95	42.53%	55.99%	R+13.5	49.81%	45.53%	D+4.3	R
96	56.53%	41.64%	D+14.9	61.84%	34.14%	D+27.7	D
97	32.15%	66.25%	R+34.1	41.38%	54.28%	R+12.9	R
98	30.33%	68.23%	R+37.9	34.80%	61.14%	R+26.3	R
99	71.34%	27.36%	D+44	74.04%	22.41%	D+51.6	D
100	75.08%	23.78%	D+51.3	76.18%	20.68%	D+55.5	D
101	47.33%	51.24%	R+3.9	54.22%	41.58%	D+12.6	D
102	38.64%	59.59%	R+20.9	45.67%	49.43%	R+3.8	R
103	22.68%	75.95%	R+53.3	26.93%	69.29%	R+42.4	R
104	30.82%	67.93%	R+37.1	40.21%	56.12%	R+15.9	R
105	50.77%	48.36%	D+2.4	52.14%	44.88%	D+7.3	R
106	42.29%	56.44%	R+14.1	49.74%	47.07%	D+2.7	R
107	45.20%	53.22%	R+8	53.78%	42.22%	D+11.6	R
108	38.64%	59.72%	R+21.1	48.10%	47.65%	D+0.5	R
109	38.25%	60.84%	R+22.6	43.64%	53.70%	R+10.1	R
110	38.67%	60.44%	R+21.8	38.94%	58.73%	R+19.8	R
111	49.19%	49.81%	R+0.6	50.02%	47.45%	D+2.6	R
112	30.34%	68.53%	R+38.2	28.46%	69.09%	R+40.6	R
113	70.01%	29.34%	D+40.7	70.93%	27.16%	D+43.8	D
114	24.42%	74.28%	R+49.9	27.08%	69.78%	R+42.7	R
115	25.05%	73.96%	R+48.9	21.86%	75.71%	R+53.8	R
116	22.38%	75.96%	R+53.6	21.50%	74.72%	R+53.2	R
117	43.85%	54.33%	R+10.5	46.06%	49.44%	R+3.4	D
118	70.03%	27.73%	D+42.3	72.30%	23.85%	D+48.4	D
119	39.17%	58.60%	R+19.4	43.90%	51.13%	R+7.2	D
120	37.24%	61.81%	R+24.6	35.23%	62.85%	R+27.6	R
121	34.55%	64.38%	R+29.8	33.78%	63.33%	R+29.6	R
122	25.27%	73.58%	R+48.3	27.39%	68.99%	R+41.6	R
123	30.23%	68.67%	R+38.4	32.20%	64.30%	R+32.1	R
124	68.87%	30.10%	D+38.8	67.16%	29.95%	D+37.2	D
125	64.05%	35.27%	D+28.8	61.49%	36.47%	D+25	D
126	71.14%	28.33%	D+42.8	67.70%	30.69%	D+37	D
127	71.70%	27.73%	D+44	69.62%	28.60%	D+41	D
128	58.68%	40.74%	D+17.9	53.91%	45.01%	D+8.9	D
129	34.82%	64.33%	R+29.5	30.56%	67.28%	R+36.7	R
130	41.36%	57.52%	R+16.2	38.50%	59.23%	R+20.7	R
131	30.10%	69.02%	R+38.9	26.45%	71.84%	R+45.4	R
132	52.31%	46.76%	D+5.5	47.39%	50.36%	R+3	D
133	26.96%	72.09%	R+45.1	26.40%	71.27%	R+44.9	R
134	32.39%	66.58%	R+34.2	33.09%	63.59%	R+30.5	R
135	75.20%	24.15%	D+51.1	71.83%	25.62%	D+46.2	D
136	76.64%	22.90%	D+53.7	74.36%	23.45%	D+50.9	D
137	61.33%	38.05%	D+23.3	57.56%	40.47%	D+17.1	D
138	49.61%	49.57%	D+0	44.79%	53.44%	R+8.7	D
139	62.73%	36.73%	D+26	56.98%	41.79%	D+15.2	D
140	42.66%	56.37%	R+13.7	36.47%	61.24%	R+24.8	R
141	33.52%	65.50%	R+32	35.91%	61.38%	R+25.5	R
142	72.69%	26.82%	D+45.9	69.80%	28.67%	D+41.1	D
143	72.80%	26.38%	D+46.4	72.74%	24.59%	D+48.2	D
144	37.33%	61.88%	R+24.5	33.67%	64.40%	R+30.7	R
145	49.55%	49.52%	D+0	45.42%	52.08%	R+6.7	R
146	33.17%	65.78%	R+32.6	33.28%	63.67%	R+30.4	R
147	42.82%	55.88%	R+13.1	45.91%	50.87%	R+5	R
148	36.88%	62.49%	R+25.6	32.66%	65.69%	R+33	R
149	34.99%	64.01%	R+29	28.75%	69.67%	R+40.9	R
150	38.10%	61.18%	R+23.1	34.09%	64.38%	R+30.3	R
151	56.09%	43.44%	D+12.7	52.05%	46.87%	D+5.2	R
152	27.10%	72.15%	R+45	24.18%	74.01%	R+49.8	R
153	65.09%	34.35%	D+30.7	64.29%	34.03%	D+30.3	D
154	64.12%	35.37%	D+28.7	61.05%	37.84%	D+23.2	D
155	32.85%	66.34%	R+33.5	27.89%	70.48%	R+42.6	R
156	27.90%	71.11%	R+43.2	23.40%	75.08%	R+51.7	R
157	31.00%	68.11%	R+37.1	25.57%	72.59%	R+47	R
158	40.23%	59.08%	R+18.8	34.85%	63.53%	R+28.7	R
159	36.50%	62.45%	R+25.9	31.08%	66.39%	R+35.3	R
160	34.41%	64.13%	R+29.7	30.97%	65.40%	R+34.4	R
161	30.32%	68.49%	R+38.2	31.61%	65.21%	R+33.6	R
162	71.15%	27.88%	D+43.3	69.50%	27.89%	D+41.6	D
163	72.75%	26.10%	D+46.7	73.06%	23.61%	D+49.4	D
164	41.85%	57.06%	R+15.2	41.94%	54.18%	R+12.2	R
165	66.44%	32.76%	D+33.7	68.06%	29.12%	D+38.9	D
166	29.14%	69.78%	R+40.6	31.24%	65.39%	R+34.2	R
167	32.87%	66.15%	R+33.3	30.01%	67.57%	R+37.6	R
168	64.64%	34.46%	D+30.2	59.49%	37.96%	D+21.5	D
169	31.08%	67.86%	R+36.8	25.60%	72.82%	R+47.2	R
170	30.62%	68.45%	R+37.8	26.38%	71.80%	R+45.4	R
171	41.06%	58.25%	R+17.2	36.53%	62.23%	R+25.7	R
172	35.73%	63.65%	R+27.9	31.21%	67.02%	R+35.8	R
173	43.69%	55.72%	R+12	40.54%	57.80%	R+17.3	R
174	30.98%	68.00%	R+37	26.14%	71.93%	R+45.8	R
175	32.86%	66.33%	R+33.5	36.55%	61.37%	R+24.8	R
176	33.55%	65.50%	R+32	29.41%	68.46%	R+39.1	R
177	66.82%	32.35%	D+34.5	51.94%	45.63%	D+6.3	D
178	16.00%	82.80%	R+66.8	12.05%	86.54%	R+74.5	R
179	42.01%	57.11%	R+15.1	39.66%	57.92%	R+18.3	R
180	33.80%	64.90%	R+31.1	30.05%	66.93%	R+36.9	R
Total	45.51%	53.33%	R+7.8	45.89%	51.05%	R+5.2	-
Source: Daily Kos

District election history

2018

See also: Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Incumbent Doug Collins defeated Josh McCall in the general election for U.S. House Georgia District 9 on November 6, 2018.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Doug Collins (R)	79.5	224,661
	Josh McCall (D)	20.5	57,912
	Other/Write-in votes	0.0	9

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source 1 Source 2	Total votes: 282,582 (100.00% precincts reporting)
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Josh McCall defeated Dave Cooper in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9 on May 22, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Josh McCall	52.7	6,949
	Submit photo	Dave Cooper	47.3	6,230

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified.	Total votes: 13,179
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Incumbent Doug Collins advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9 on May 22, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug Collins	100.0	63,646

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified.	Total votes: 63,646
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

2016

See also: Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2016

Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated this race as safely Republican. Incumbent Doug Collins (R) faced no opponent in the general election. Collins defeated Paul Broun, Bernie Fontaine, Mike Scupin, and Roger Fitzpatrick in the Republican primary on May 24, 2016.^[62]^[63]

**U.S. House, Georgia District 9 General Election, 2016**
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Republican	Doug Collins Incumbent	100%	256,535
Total Votes				256,535
Source: Georgia Secretary of State

**U.S. House, Georgia District 9 Republican Primary, 2016**
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Doug Collins Incumbent	61.3%	52,080
Paul Broun	22.1%	18,772
Roger Fitzpatrick	10.5%	8,945
Mike Scupin	3.4%	2,856
Bernie Fontaine	2.8%	2,342
Total Votes		84,995
Source: Georgia Secretary of State

2014

See also: Georgia's 9th Congressional District elections, 2014

The 9th Congressional District of Georgia held an election for the U.S. House of Representatives on November 4, 2014. Incumbent Doug Collins (R) defeated challenger David Vogel (Georgia) (D) in the general election.

**U.S. House, Georgia District 9 General Election, 2014**
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Republican	Doug Collins Incumbent	80.67%	146,059
	Democratic	David Vogel	19.33%	34,988
Total Votes				181,047
Source: Georgia Secretary of State

State profile

See also: Georgia and Georgia elections, 2020

Partisan data

The information in this section was current as of April 9, 2020

Presidential voting pattern

Georgia voted Republican in six out of the seven presidential elections between 2000 and 2024.

Congressional delegation

Following the 2018 elections, both U.S. senators from Georgia were Republicans. Johnny Isakson (R) resigned in 2019. Kelly Loeffler (R) was appointed to serve the remainder of his term in 2020.
Nine of Georgia's 14 U.S. representatives were Republicans and five were Democrats.

State executives

Republicans held nine of Georgia's 11 state executive offices. The other two offices were nonpartisan.
Georgia's governor was Republican Brian Kemp.

State legislature

Republicans controlled the Georgia State Senate with a 34-21 majority. There was one vacancy.
Republicans controlled the Georgia House of Representatives with a 105-75 majority.

Georgia Party Control: 1992-2025
Eleven years of Democratic trifectas • Twenty-one years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year	92	93	94	95	96	97	98	99	00	01	02	03	04	05	06	07	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24	25
Governor	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R
Senate	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R
House	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R

Georgia quick stats

Became a state in 1788
4th state admitted to the United States
Largest state east of the Mississippi River
Members of the Georgia State Senate: 56
Members of the Georgia House of Representatives: 180
U.S. senators: 2
U.S. representatives: 14

More Georgia coverage on Ballotpedia:

Georgia elections, 2020
Presidential voting trends in Georgia
United States congressional delegations from Georgia
Public policy in Georgia
Influencers in Georgia
Almanac of American Politics state profile
More...

Demographic data for Georgia
	Georgia	U.S.
Total population:	10,199,398	316,515,021
Land area (sq mi):	57,513	3,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White:	60.2%	73.6%
Black/African American:	30.9%	12.6%
Asian:	3.6%	5.1%
Native American:	0.3%	0.8%
Pacific Islander:	0%	0.2%
Two or more:	2.1%	3%
Hispanic/Latino:	9.1%	17.1%
Education
High school graduation rate:	85.4%	86.7%
College graduation rate:	28.8%	29.8%
Income
Median household income:	$49,620	$53,889
Persons below poverty level:	21.1%	11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015) Click here for more information on the 2020 census and here for more on its impact on the redistricting process in Georgia. **Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

External links

Suggest a link

Search Google News for this topic

Footnotes

↑ ^1.0 ^1.1 The New York Times, "Georgia Primary Election Results: Ninth Congressional District," accessed June 10, 2020
↑ The Gainesville Times, "9th District race one of four high-dollar congressional battles in Georgia," April 18, 2020
↑ ^3.0 ^3.1 ^3.2 ^3.3 ^3.4 ^3.5 ^3.6 Federal Election Commission, "Independent expenditures," accessed June 9, 2020
↑ AP, "GOP's Massie outrages House, Trump by seeking to stall vote," March 27, 2020
↑ ^5.0 ^5.1 FetchYourNews.com, "Sen. Paul endorses Rep. Gurtler in U.S. Congressional race," February 18, 2020
↑ ^6.0 ^6.1 Twitter, "Matt Gurtler for Congress," March 10, 2020
↑ ^7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 20, 2020
↑ ^8.0 ^8.1 ^8.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 28, 2020
↑ ^9.0 ^9.1 ^9.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," May 1, 2020
↑ ^10.0 ^10.1 The Gainesville Times, "Nathan Deal endorses Kevin Tanner's 9th District congressional bid," March 5, 2020
↑ ^11.0 ^11.1 Facebook, "Andrew Clyde for Congress," April 1, 2020
↑ ^12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 Facebook, "Senator John Wilkinson," May 26, 2020
↑ Google Sheets, "115th Congress Members Guide with Elections and Demographic Data by District," accessed April 13, 2020
↑ Candidate Connection surveys completed before September 26, 2019, were not used to generate candidate profiles. In battleground primaries, Ballotpedia based its selection of noteworthy candidates on polling, fundraising, and noteworthy endorsements. In battleground general elections, all major party candidates and any other candidates with the potential to impact the outcome of the race were included.
↑ ^15.0 ^15.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 18, 2020
↑ ^16.0 ^16.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," June 1, 2020
↑ ^17.0 ^17.1 Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 29, 2020
↑ ^18.0 ^18.1 Club for Growth PAC website, "CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC ENDORSES MATT GURTLER (GA-09)," April 28, 2020
↑ ^19.0 ^19.1 Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 28, 2020
↑ AJC, "The Jolt: North Georgia wants state parks sealed off, too," April 7, 2020
↑ ^21.0 ^21.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," May 19, 2020
↑ Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 29, 2020
↑ Protect Freedom PAC website, "Protect Freedom PAC Endorses Matt Gurtler for Congress in GA-09," accessed April 10, 2020
↑ ^24.0 ^24.1 YouTube, "Fight and Win," May 27, 2020
↑ ^25.0 ^25.1 Facebook, "Now Habersham," May 26, 2020
↑ ^26.0 ^26.1 YouTube, "Door Kicker," May 26, 2020
↑ ^27.0 ^27.1 YouTube, "Conservative," May 19, 2020
↑ ^28.0 ^28.1 YouTube, "Ethan Underwood Will Stand with President Trump," May 12, 2020
↑ ^29.0 ^29.1 YouTube, "APC DEBATES: Congressional District 9 (R)," May 3, 2020
↑ ^30.0 ^30.1 YouTube, "Hit the Mark," April 29, 2020
↑ ^31.0 ^31.1 YouTube, "9th Congressional District Republican Party Debate," April 25, 2020
↑ ^32.0 ^32.1 Facebook, "Conservative John Wilkinson for Congress," April 22, 2020
↑ ^33.0 ^33.1 YouTube, "Most Conservative," April 14, 2020
↑ ^34.0 ^34.1 YouTube, "My Story," April 14, 2020
↑ ^35.0 ^35.1 Facebook, "Young Republicans of Northeast Georgia," April 11, 2020
↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Postpone
↑ ^37.0 ^37.1 ^37.2 ^37.3 ^37.4 ^37.5 ^37.6 ^37.7 ^37.8 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
↑ Boggus' 2020 campaign website, “Principles,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Broun's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Clyde's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Gurtler's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Strickland's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Tanner's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Underwood's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Weeks' 2020 campaign website, “Important Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Wilkinson's 2020 campaign website, “Home,” accessed April 8, 2020
↑ Fundraising by primary candidates can be found on the race's respective primary election page. Fundraising by general election candidates can be found on the race's general election page.
↑ Federal Election Commission, "2022 Quarterly Reports," accessed March 2, 2022
↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed September 22, 2015
↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed September 22, 2015
↑ National Review.com, "Why the Media Hate Super PACs," November 6, 2015
↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "State Primary Election Types," accessed August 12, 2024
↑ Justia, "2023 Georgia Code § 21-2-224 - Registration deadlines; restrictions on voting in primaries; official list of electors; voting procedure when portion of county changed from one county to another," accessed August 12, 2024
↑ Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.
↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018
↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018
↑ Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018
↑ Cook Political Report, "Introducing the 2017 Cook Political Report Partisan Voter Index," April 7, 2017
↑ FiveThirtyEight, "Election Update: The Most (And Least) Elastic States And Districts," September 6, 2018
↑ Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' statewide election results by congressional and legislative districts," July 9, 2013
↑ Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' 2016 presidential results for congressional and legislative districts," February 6, 2017
↑ Georgia Secretary of State, "Qualifying Candidate Information," accessed March 12, 2016
↑ The New York Times, "Georgia Primary Results," May 24, 2016

[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)

[results-1] 1.0 ^1.1 The New York Times, "Georgia Primary Election Results: Ninth Congressional District," accessed June 10, 2020

[2] The Gainesville Times, "9th District race one of four high-dollar congressional battles in Georgia," April 18, 2020

[FEC-3] 3.0 ^3.1 ^3.2 ^3.3 ^3.4 ^3.5 ^3.6 Federal Election Commission, "Independent expenditures," accessed June 9, 2020

[4] AP, "GOP's Massie outrages House, Trump by seeking to stall vote," March 27, 2020

[paul-5] 5.0 ^5.1 FetchYourNews.com, "Sen. Paul endorses Rep. Gurtler in U.S. Congressional race," February 18, 2020

[massie-6] 6.0 ^6.1 Twitter, "Matt Gurtler for Congress," March 10, 2020

[mason-7] 7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 20, 2020

[kirby-8] 8.0 ^8.1 ^8.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 28, 2020

[nicholson-9] 9.0 ^9.1 ^9.2 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," May 1, 2020

[deal-10] 10.0 ^10.1 The Gainesville Times, "Nathan Deal endorses Kevin Tanner's 9th District congressional bid," March 5, 2020

[Hice-11] 11.0 ^11.1 Facebook, "Andrew Clyde for Congress," April 1, 2020

[duncan-12] 12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 Facebook, "Senator John Wilkinson," May 26, 2020

[13] Google Sheets, "115th Congress Members Guide with Elections and Demographic Data by District," accessed April 13, 2020

[14] Candidate Connection surveys completed before September 26, 2019, were not used to generate candidate profiles. In battleground primaries, Ballotpedia based its selection of noteworthy candidates on polling, fundraising, and noteworthy endorsements. In battleground general elections, all major party candidates and any other candidates with the potential to impact the outcome of the race were included.

[mccall-15] 15.0 ^15.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," April 18, 2020

[rogers-16] 16.0 ^16.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," June 1, 2020

[bfb1-17] 17.0 ^17.1 Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 29, 2020

[cfg-18] 18.0 ^18.1 Club for Growth PAC website, "CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC ENDORSES MATT GURTLER (GA-09)," April 28, 2020

[gartl-19] 19.0 ^19.1 Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 28, 2020

[20] AJC, "The Jolt: North Georgia wants state parks sealed off, too," April 7, 2020

[lco-21] 21.0 ^21.1 Facebook, "Kevin Tanner for Congress," May 19, 2020

[22] Facebook, "Paul Broun," May 29, 2020

[23] Protect Freedom PAC website, "Protect Freedom PAC Endorses Matt Gurtler for Congress in GA-09," accessed April 10, 2020

[clydefw-24] 24.0 ^24.1 YouTube, "Fight and Win," May 27, 2020

[may26forum-25] 25.0 ^25.1 Facebook, "Now Habersham," May 26, 2020

[doorkicker-26] 26.0 ^26.1 YouTube, "Door Kicker," May 26, 2020

[cfgad-27] 27.0 ^27.1 YouTube, "Conservative," May 19, 2020

[underwoodad1-28] 28.0 ^28.1 YouTube, "Ethan Underwood Will Stand with President Trump," May 12, 2020

[apc-29] 29.0 ^29.1 YouTube, "APC DEBATES: Congressional District 9 (R)," May 3, 2020

[tannermark-30] 30.0 ^30.1 YouTube, "Hit the Mark," April 29, 2020

[FYNTV-31] 31.0 ^31.1 YouTube, "9th Congressional District Republican Party Debate," April 25, 2020

[WilkinsonFB-32] 32.0 ^32.1 Facebook, "Conservative John Wilkinson for Congress," April 22, 2020

[PFPAd1-33] 33.0 ^33.1 YouTube, "Most Conservative," April 14, 2020

[tannerstory-34] 34.0 ^34.1 YouTube, "My Story," April 14, 2020

[YNGA-35] 35.0 ^35.1 Facebook, "Young Republicans of Northeast Georgia," April 11, 2020

[Postpone-36] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Postpone

[quotedisclaimer-37] 37.0 ^37.1 ^37.2 ^37.3 ^37.4 ^37.5 ^37.6 ^37.7 ^37.8 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.

[38] Boggus' 2020 campaign website, “Principles,” accessed April 8, 2020

[39] Broun's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[40] Clyde's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[41] Gurtler's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[42] Strickland's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[43] Tanner's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[44] Underwood's 2020 campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[45] Weeks' 2020 campaign website, “Important Issues,” accessed April 8, 2020

[46] Wilkinson's 2020 campaign website, “Home,” accessed April 8, 2020

[47] Fundraising by primary candidates can be found on the race's respective primary election page. Fundraising by general election candidates can be found on the race's general election page.

[48] Federal Election Commission, "2022 Quarterly Reports," accessed March 2, 2022

[definition-49] OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed September 22, 2015

[stats-50] OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed September 22, 2015

[51] National Review.com, "Why the Media Hate Super PACs," November 6, 2015

[52] National Conference of State Legislatures, "State Primary Election Types," accessed August 12, 2024

[gastatuts-53] Justia, "2023 Georgia Code § 21-2-224 - Registration deadlines; restrictions on voting in primaries; official list of electors; voting procedure when portion of county changed from one county to another," accessed August 12, 2024

[54] Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.

[55] Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018

[56] Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018

[57] Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018

[58] Cook Political Report, "Introducing the 2017 Cook Political Report Partisan Voter Index," April 7, 2017

[59] FiveThirtyEight, "Election Update: The Most (And Least) Elastic States And Districts," September 6, 2018

[60] Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' statewide election results by congressional and legislative districts," July 9, 2013

[61] Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' 2016 presidential results for congressional and legislative districts," February 6, 2017

[list-62] Georgia Secretary of State, "Qualifying Candidate Information," accessed March 12, 2016

[primary16-63] The New York Times, "Georgia Primary Results," May 24, 2016

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

[15]

[16]

[17]

[18]

[19]

[20]

[21]

[22]

[23]

[24]

[25]

[26]

[27]

[28]

[29]

[30]

[31]

[32]

[33]

[34]

[35]

[36]

[37]

[38]

[39]

[40]

[41]

[42]

[43]

[44]

[45]

[46]

[47]

[48]

[49]

[50]

[51]

[52]

[53]

[54]

[55]

[56]

[57]

[58]

[59]

[60]

[61]

[62]

[63]

Georgia's 9th Congressional District election, 2020 (June 9 Republican primary)

Election procedure changes in 2020

Candidates and election results

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Candidate profiles

Endorsements

Timeline

2020

June

May

April

Campaign themes

Michael Boggus

Paul Broun

Andrew Clyde

Matt Gurtler

Maria Strickland

Kevin Tanner

Ethan Underwood

Kellie Weeks

John Wilkinson

Campaign advertisements

Paul Broun

Andrew Clyde

Matt Gurtler

Kevin Tanner

Ethan Underwood

John Wilkinson

Satellite group ads

Polls

Campaign finance

Source of campaign contributions

Satellite spending

Debates and forums

May 26 candidate forum

May 3 virtual debate

April 25 virtual debate

April 11 virtual debate

Primaries in Georgia

What's at stake in the general election?

General election race ratings

District analysis

Pivot Counties

Presidential results by legislative district

District election history

2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 9

2016

2014

State profile

Partisan data

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

SITE NAVIGATION