POLITICS

Georgia Runoffs and California Special Primary Decide Seats

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Atlanta, Georgia — Voters returned to polling places Tuesday to decide primary runoff contests across the state while Bay Area residents voted in a California special congressional primary to fill the remainder of Rep. Eric Swalwell’s term. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and were scheduled to close at 7 p.m. on Election Day. The results will determine party nominees for November and who serves the final 15 weeks of the California seat; the most watched matchups included the Republican governor runoff between Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and businessman Rick Jackson and a Republican U.S. Senate runoff between Mike Collins and Derek Dooley. Officials reported nearly 483,000 early and absentee ballots and warned voters to confirm precinct assignments before voting.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

April 2026: Rep. Eric Swalwell resigns from Congress amid allegations.
May 2026: Georgia primary elections fail to produce majority winners, triggering runoffs.
Early June 2026: Officials report nearly 483,000 early and absentee ballots cast ahead of runoffs.
Mid-June 2026: Chatham County announces precinct relocations and advises voters to check assignments.
Election Day Tuesday (mid-June 2026): Georgia runoffs and California special primary are held; outcomes determine nominees and a short-term congressional occupant.

Why This Matters to You

These elections shape your future. They decide who makes laws, sets taxes, and funds services. If you're in Georgia or California, check your precinct assignment before heading out to vote.

The Bottom Line

Your vote is your voice. The outcomes of these runoffs and special primary will determine who represents you in November and beyond. Worth forwarding if you know someone in these states.