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Michael Dockery
From Ballotpedia
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Michael Dockery (Republican Party) is running for election to the Georgia House of Representatives to represent District 176. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Dockery completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Michael Dockery was born in Douglas, Georgia. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 2006 to 2015. He earned a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree from the The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, in 2010 and 2021, respectively. He also earned a graduate degree from Valdosta State University. His career experience includes working as an educator.[1]
Elections
2026
See also: Georgia House of Representatives elections, 2026
Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.
General election
The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.
General election for Georgia House of Representatives District 176
Michael Dockery is running in the general election for Georgia House of Representatives District 176 on November 3, 2026.
Candidate | ||
Michael Dockery (R)  | ||
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Endorsements
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Campaign themes
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Michael Dockery completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Dockery's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Michael Dockery is a teacher and lifelong resident of South Georgia. Rooted in the values of faith, family, and community, Michael has dedicated his career to helping students succeed and preparing the next generation for the future. His passion for service and leadership has led him to step forward as a candidate for State Representative to ensure that the voices of Atkinson, Ware, Coffee, Lowndes and Lanier counties are truly heard.
I believe our communities deserve leadership that is rooted here and ready to represent. That means delivering real, present, and consistent results for the people of our district — not just talk or promises.
My priorities are clear:
Strong Schools: Invest in teachers, students, and classrooms so every child has a fair shot at success.
Safe Communities: Support local law enforcement and first responders with the tools they need to keep families safe.
Accountable Leadership: Promote transparency, fiscal responsibility, and proactive solutions so we fix problems before they become crises.
Local Growth: Focus on infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities that build a stronger future for all of us.- Education - Michael Dockery emphasizes supporting strong public education by advocating for resources that help teachers and students succeed. He is committed to policies that improve learning opportunities, promote safe and effective schools, and ensure that local communities have a voice in educational decision-making.
- Public Safety - Michael Dockery supports initiatives that promote safe communities by ensuring that law enforcement and first responders have the resources and support they need. He emphasizes collaboration between local officials, community organizations, and residents to address public safety concerns effectively and responsibly.
- Government Accountability - Michael Dockery is committed to transparency and responsible governance. He advocates for policies that ensure public officials are accountable to their constituents and that government operations are conducted openly, efficiently, and with integrity.
Michael Dockery is deeply committed to policies that strengthen education, promote public safety, and ensure government accountability.
He advocates for providing teachers, students, and schools with the resources and support needed to succeed and for giving local communities a meaningful voice in educational decision-making.
He supports initiatives that foster safe neighborhoods by equipping law enforcement and first responders to effectively protect residents while encouraging collaboration with community organizations.
Michael Dockery looks up to leaders who demonstrate integrity, resilience, and dedication to public service. He admires Winston Churchill for his steadfast leadership during times of national crisis, his commitment to principle, and his ability to unite people toward a common goal. Dockery seeks to follow Churchill’s example by serving his constituents with determination, thoughtful decision-making, and a focus on long-term solutions that benefit the community and state.
An effective elected official demonstrates integrity, accountability, and transparency, ensuring that decisions are made in the public’s best interest. They listen to constituents, work collaboratively with colleagues, and approach policy-making thoughtfully and responsibly.
Commitment to public service, ethical leadership, and clear communication are key principles that help elected officials serve their communities effectively.
Commitment to public service, ethical leadership, and clear communication are key principles that help elected officials serve their communities effectively.
An elected State Representative is responsible for representing the interests and concerns of their constituents in the legislature. This includes proposing, reviewing, and voting on laws; serving on committees; and working with community members, local officials, and other legislators to address public needs. They must ensure government resources are used responsibly, advocate for policies that benefit their district, and maintain transparency and accountability in their decision-making.
Michael Dockery hopes to leave a legacy of principled public service, integrity, and tangible improvements for the people of his district. He aims to be remembered as a representative who listened to constituents, made thoughtful and responsible decisions, and worked collaboratively to strengthen education, public safety, and government accountability. His goal is to have a lasting, positive impact on his community by fostering trust in government and leaving state policies and programs better than he found them.
Michael Dockery’s first vivid memory of a major historical event is the 2000 U.S. presidential election and the subsequent Florida recount. At the age of 12, he witnessed the intense national focus on the election results, the legal battles, and the eventual intervention of the U.S. Supreme Court in Bush v. Gore, which effectively decided the outcome. This experience sparked his interest in the electoral process and the importance of fair and transparent elections.
Michael Dockery got his start working at Dairy Queen, where he spent two years scooping ice cream and serving customers. That experience taught him the value of hard work, teamwork, and keeping a positive attitude—even when the line was long and the ice cream was melting fast!
Michael Dockery’s favorite book is Churchill: A Life by Martin Gilbert. He admires the biography for its detailed account of Winston Churchill’s leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking during pivotal moments in history. The book has inspired him to approach challenges with determination, thoughtful decision-making, and a focus on long-term outcomes, both in his personal life and in public service.
If he could be any fictional character, Michael Dockery would choose Captain James T. Kirk from Star Trek. He admires Kirk’s bold leadership, courage, and ability to make decisive choices under pressure. Dockery values these qualities in public service—approaching challenges with confidence, taking initiative when needed, and working to guide his community toward practical solutions while maintaining integrity and vision.
Michael Dockery has faced challenges balancing the demands of work, family, and community service. Like many, he has had to learn how to manage competing priorities while staying committed to his goals. These experiences have taught him resilience, time management, and the importance of perseverance, shaping the dedication and work ethic he brings to both his professional and public service endeavors.
The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature is one of collaboration, mutual respect, and open communication. Both branches should work together to address the needs of constituents, craft effective policies, and ensure that government functions efficiently. While each branch has distinct responsibilities, maintaining a cooperative and constructive partnership helps advance legislation, respond to public concerns, and uphold the principles of accountability and transparency in state government.
Over the next decade, Georgia faces a range of challenges that will require thoughtful planning and collaboration. Key areas include strengthening public education to meet the needs of a growing and diverse student population, ensuring public safety across urban and rural communities, supporting sustainable economic growth and job creation, addressing infrastructure and transportation needs, and maintaining transparency and accountability in government. Effectively meeting these challenges will require cooperation among state leaders, local communities, and stakeholders to develop practical, long-term solutions.
Having previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial for state legislators, as it provides familiarity with legislative processes, procedures, and the complexities of policymaking. Such experience can help officials navigate the responsibilities of office more effectively, build relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, and understand the needs of constituents. However, legislators can also bring valuable perspectives from diverse professional, civic, and community backgrounds that contribute to well-rounded representation.
Having previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial for state legislators, although not required, as it provides familiarity with legislative processes, procedures, and the complexities of policymaking. Such experience can help officials navigate the responsibilities of office more effectively, build relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, and understand the needs of constituents. However, legislators can also bring valuable perspectives from diverse professional, civic, and community backgrounds that contribute to well-rounded representation.
Michael Dockery admires former Georgia Governor and U.S. Senator Zell Miller for his dedication to public service and focus on education, as well as former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue for his work on economic growth, government efficiency, and public accountability. He values legislators who demonstrate integrity, collaboration, and accountability, and aims to model these qualities in his own service to constituents.
At this time, Michael Dockery is focused on serving the residents of his district as State Representative. While he remains committed to public service and addressing the needs of his community, he has not announced any specific plans to run for a different political office in the future.
As a candidate for State Representative, Michael Dockery has been deeply moved by stories of residents facing natural disasters, unexpected hardships, or public safety challenges, and how neighbors and local first responders rallied to support one another. Hearing how communities come together in times of crisis highlights the resilience and dedication of the people he hopes to serve. These stories reinforce his commitment to policies that strengthen public safety, emergency preparedness, and community well-being across the district.
The legislature plays a critical role in overseeing the use of emergency powers. Granting or reviewing such powers ensures that executive actions taken during emergencies are transparent, accountable, and consistent with the law. Legislative oversight provides a balance between swift responses to crises and protecting the rights and interests of constituents. This approach helps maintain public trust while enabling government to act effectively in times of emergency.
If elected, Michael Dockery would introduce a bill to enhance resources and support for local first responders. The legislation would aim to provide additional funding for training, equipment, and emergency preparedness programs, ensuring that police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel have the tools they need to protect communities effectively.
Michael Dockery believes that a citizen-initiated ballot process would not be beneficial for Georgia. As a representative democracy, the state relies on elected officials to study complex issues, balance competing interests, and make informed decisions on behalf of constituents. Allowing citizens to bypass this process could lead to oversimplified legislation, conflicting laws, or decisions heavily influenced by well-funded special interests, rather than thoughtful deliberation by elected representatives.
Michael Dockery remembers meeting a retired veteran at a community event who shared how difficult it had been to navigate healthcare and access services after leaving the military. What struck Dockery most was the veteran’s resilience and determination to give back to the community despite these struggles. Hearing that story firsthand reminded him of the real people behind the policies and inspired him to focus on practical solutions that help families, veterans, and neighbors thrive in everyday life.
Michael Dockery considers marrying his wife, Monica, to be one of his greatest accomplishments. Their partnership has been a source of support, inspiration, and balance throughout his personal and professional life. This experience has taught him the value of commitment, teamwork, and mutual respect—qualities he brings to both his family life and public service.
If elected as State Representative in Georgia, Michael Dockery would prioritize legislation to enhance election administration, ensuring both security and accessibility. Key proposed measures include:
1. Strengthening Voter Registration Integrity:
Implementing safeguards to prevent unauthorized cancellations of voter registrations, addressing vulnerabilities in the current online portal system.
Wikipedia
2. Enhancing Election Certification Processes:
Establishing clear guidelines for timely and transparent certification of election results, preventing undue delays and ensuring public confidence in the electoral process.
Georgia Secretary of State
3. Improving Ballot Security and Accessibility:
Introducing measures to secure absentee and early voting processes, while ensuring that all eligible voters have equal access to the polls, including provisions for individuals experiencing homelessness.
AP News
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Campaign finance information for this candidate is not yet available from OpenSecrets. That information will be published here once it is available.
See also
2026 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on August 28, 2025
Current members of the Georgia House of Representatives
Leadership
Minority Leader:Carolyn Hugley
Representatives
District 1
Mike Cameron (R)
District 2
Steve Tarvin (R)
District 3
Mitchell Horner (R)
District 4
Kasey Carpenter (R)
District 5
Matt Barton (R)
District 6
Jason Ridley (R)
District 7
Johnny Chastain (R)
District 8
Stan Gunter (R)
District 9
Will Wade (R)
District 10
Victor Anderson (R)
District 11
Rick Jasperse (R)
District 12
Eddie Lumsden (R)
District 13
Katie Dempsey (R)
District 14
District 15
Matthew Gambill (R)
District 16
Trey Kelley (R)
District 17
Martin Momtahan (R)
District 18
Tyler Smith (R)
District 19
Joseph Gullett (R)
District 20
Charlice Byrd (R)
District 21
Brad Thomas (R)
District 22
Jordan Ridley (R)
District 23
Mandi Ballinger (R)
District 24
Carter Barrett (R)
District 25
Todd Jones (R)
District 26
Lauren McDonald (R)
District 27
Lee Hawkins (R)
District 28
Brent Cox (R)
District 29
Matt Dubnik (R)
District 30
Derrick McCollum (R)
District 31
Emory Dunahoo (R)
District 32
Chris Erwin (R)
District 33
Alan Powell (R)
District 34
Devan Seabaugh (R)
District 35
Lisa Campbell (D)
District 36
Ginny Ehrhart (R)
District 37
District 38
David Wilkerson (D)
District 39
Terry Cummings (D)
District 40
Kimberly New (R)
District 41
Michael Smith (D)
District 42
Gabriel Sanchez (D)
District 43
Solomon Adesanya (D)
District 44
Don Parsons (R)
District 45
Sharon Cooper (R)
District 46
John Carson (R)
District 47
Jan Jones (R)
District 48
Scott Hilton (R)
District 49
Charles Martin (R)
District 50
Michelle Au (D)
District 51
Esther Panitch (D)
District 52
Shea Roberts (D)
District 53
Deborah Silcox (R)
District 54
Betsy Holland (D)
District 55
Inga Willis (D)
District 56
Bryce Berry (D)
District 57
Stacey Evans (D)
District 58
Park Cannon (D)
District 59
Phil Olaleye (D)
District 60
Sheila Jones (D)
District 61
Mekyah McQueen (D)
District 62
Tanya Miller (D)
District 63
Kim Schofield (D)
District 64
Sylvia Wayfer (D)
District 65
Robert Dawson (D)
District 66
District 67
Lydia Glaize (D)
District 68
Derrick Jackson (D)
District 69
Debra Bazemore (D)
District 70
Lynn Smith (R)
District 71
Justin Howard (R)
District 72
David Huddleston (R)
District 73
Josh Bonner (R)
District 74
Robert Flournoy (D)
District 75
Eric Bell (D)
District 76
Sandra Scott (D)
District 77
Rhonda Burnough (D)
District 78
District 79
Yasmin Neal (D)
District 80
Long Tran (D)
District 81
Noelle Kahaian (R)
District 82
Karen Mathiak (R)
District 83
Karen Lupton (D)
District 84
Mary Oliver (D)
District 85
Karla Drenner (D)
District 86
Imani Barnes (D)
District 87
Viola Davis (D)
District 88
Billy Mitchell (D)
District 89
Omari Crawford (D)
District 90
Saira Draper (D)
District 91
Angela Moore (D)
District 92
Rhonda Taylor (D)
District 93
Doreen Carter (D)
District 94
Karen Bennett (D)
District 95
District 96
Arlene Beckles (D)
District 97
Ruwa Romman (D)
District 98
Marvin Lim (D)
District 99
Matt Reeves (R)
District 100
David Clark (R)
District 101
Scott Holcomb (D)
District 102
Gabe Okoye (D)
District 103
Soo Hong (R)
District 104
Chuck Efstration (R)
District 105
Sandy Donatucci (R)
District 106
Vacant
District 107
Samuel Park (D)
District 108
Jasmine Clark (D)
District 109
Dewey McClain (D)
District 110
Segun Adeyina (D)
District 111
Rey Martinez (R)
District 112
Bruce Williamson (R)
District 113
Sharon Henderson (D)
District 114
Tim Fleming (R)
District 115
District 116
El-Mahdi Holly (D)
District 117
Mary Santos (D)
District 118
Clint Crowe (R)
District 119
Holt Persinger (R)
District 120
Houston Gaines (R)
District 121
Marcus Wiedower (R)
District 122
Spencer Frye (D)
District 123
Rob Leverett (R)
District 124
Trey Rhodes (R)
District 125
Gary Richardson (R)
District 126
L.C. Myles (D)
District 127
Mark Newton (R)
District 128
Mack Jackson (D)
District 129
Karlton Howard (D)
District 130
Lynn Gladney (D)
District 131
Rob Clifton (R)
District 132
Brian Prince (D)
District 133
Danny Mathis (R)
District 134
Robert Dickey (R)
District 135
Beth Camp (R)
District 136
David Jenkins (R)
District 137
Debbie Buckner (D)
District 138
Vance Smith (R)
District 139
Carmen Rice (R)
District 140
Teddy Reese (D)
District 141
Carolyn Hugley (D)
District 142
Miriam Paris (D)
District 143
Anissa Jones (D)
District 144
Dale Washburn (R)
District 145
Herring (D)
District 146
Shaw Blackmon (R)
District 147
Bethany Ballard (R)
District 148
Noel Williams (R)
District 149
Floyd Griffin (D)
District 150
Patty Stinson (D)
District 151
Mike Cheokas (R)
District 152
Bill Yearta (R)
District 153
David Sampson (D)
District 154
Gerald Greene (R)
District 155
Matt Hatchett (R)
District 156
Leesa Hagan (R)
District 157
Bill Werkheiser (R)
District 158
Larry Parrish (R)
District 159
Jon Burns (R)
District 160
Lehman Franklin (R)
District 161
Bill Hitchens (R)
District 162
Carl Gilliard (D)
District 163
Anne Westbrook (D)
District 164
Ron Stephens (R)
District 165
Edna Jackson (D)
District 166
Jesse Petrea (R)
District 167
Buddy DeLoach (R)
District 168
Al Williams (D)
District 169
Angie O'Steen (R)
District 170
Jaclyn Ford (R)
District 171
Joe Campbell (R)
District 172
Charles Cannon (R)
District 173
Darlene Taylor (R)
District 174
John Corbett (R)
District 175
John LaHood (R)
District 176
James Burchett (R)
District 177
Dexter Sharper (D)
District 178
Steven Meeks (R)
District 179
Rick Townsend (R)
District 180
Steven Sainz (R)
Republican Party (100)
Democratic Party (79)
Vacancies (1)
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