Gwinnett Daily Post

Duluth man begins race for Senate

LAWRENCEVILLE — Republican David Shafer on Tuesday became the first official candidate for the District 48 state Senate seat.
Shafer was the only candidate to enter his name with the Secretary of State’s office during the first day of qualifying. The process will conclude at noon Thursday.
Shafer said he planned to run for the Senate under the newly redistricted map, but judicial appointment of former Senator Billy Ray spurred him to action.
The candidate said his areas of concern include traffic congestion, school overcrowding and tax relief. 
The Duluth resident said he is “running a campaign for the office, not against any other candidate” and is not worried about the potential for competition.
“Choices are good and I’d welcome anyone interested in serving in the Senate to qualify,” Shafer said.
The special election for the District 48 seat will occur on Tuesday, Feb. 12, with a special election, if necessary, set for Tuesday, March 5.
Candidates will file their documents with the Secretary of State’s elections division in downtown Atlanta. The $400 qualifying fee is fixed for General Assembly positions.
Candidates may apply in person or supply notarized materials by mail or courier.
Senate candidates must be a U.S. citizen,  a resident of Georgia for at least two years, a resident of the district for one year and at least 25 at election time.