Remember former state Sen. Charles Walker, D-Augusta, once one of the most powerful Democrats in the state? After he was convicted and jailed on corruption charges, his family fortunes faded— underscored again by the May 24 defeat of daughter Monique in a three-way non-partisan race for a Richmond County judgeship. The first-place candidate is Robert “Bo” Hunter, one of the last of Augusta’s conservative white Democrats, and second place is Kellie McIntyre, daughter of the late Augusta Mayor Ed McIntyre (also jailed for corruption).
Turnout could be around just 5 percent statewide for the July 26 party primary runoffs, so the candidate who can get out enough diehard supporters to vote will prevail. (Early voting in Georgia begins July 5 and lasts until July 22.)
The former husband of Monique Walker, Gregory Hill, was also defeated in a Democratic primary for state House of Representatives District 124 in Augusta. Incumbent Rep. Henry “Wayne” Howard prevailed.
In neighboring Columbia County, the overwhelmingly Republican Senate District 24 seat opened up with the retirement of incumbent Bill Jackson. Farmer and former state Rep. Lee Anderson will face unsuccessful County Commission candidate Greg Grzybowski for the July 26 runoff. Insiders believe Anderson has the edge. However, Anderson is not known for debating skill– yet he challenged Grzybowski to a debate. If Anderson should flounder during that forum, most district Republicans tell this writer that Grzybowski could eke out a win.
