DeKalb officials certify Presidential Preference Primary, set special elections for BOC seats

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—The DeKalb County Board of Elections and Registration certified the March 12 Presidential Preference Primary on Monday, March 18  reporting that 56,358 voters (11.33 percent) cast their ballots. DeKalb has 497,621 registered voters, according to the board.

In addition to certifying the results, the board also unanimously voted to fill the County Commission District 3 and Super Commission District 7 seats through a special election to be held on Nov. 5, 2024. Qualifying for the special election will be held April 1-5.

The District 3 seat was held by Larry Johnson and the District 7 seat was held by Lorraine Cochran Johnson. Both Johnsons, who are not related, stepped down from their unexpired terms on the Board of Commissions, to run for DeKalb County CEO. The 4-year terms for the District 3 and District 7 seat expire in 2027. District 4 Commissioner Steve Bradshaw, whose term expires at the end of 2024, also is running for CEO. Bradshaw didn’t have to step down to run because he is scheduled to finish out his four-year- term this year. Four contestants are vying for Bradshaw’s seat: Lance Hammonds, Chakira Johnson, Gabrielle Rogers and Rita Scott.

Voters will learn who is running for the District 3 and District 7 seats after qualifying ends on April 5.

Keisha L. Smith, executive director of the DeKalb Voter Registration and Elections, expressed her gratitude to the board members, county partners, poll workers, and VRE staff for their execution of an efficient and successful election.

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for their tireless efforts and commitment to upholding the democratic process,” said Smith.

To view the official election summary report and statement of votes cast, visit DeKalbVotes.com