The lone Democrat among seven candidates in a special election held August 26 for the Georgia state Senate won the most votes, putting her in a runoff election against a Republican opponent scheduled for September 23. Democrat Debra Shigley garnered about 40 percent of the vote of the vote. Her closet Republican candidates earned about 17 percent each. The election in senate district 21 became necessary after President Trump appointed the incumbent, Alpharetta Republican Brandon Beach, to be U.S. Treasurer.

Democrats are elated over Shigley’s unexpected showing in a deep-red district where Beach received upwards of 70% of the vote against a Democratic challenger in 2024. Shigley is an Alpharetta mom, attorney and small business owner. She said in a statement, "My team and I are more than ready to continue this historic momentum. I am very proud of the campaign we have run so far, and it is clear that our vision — for an affordable, healthy, educated Georgia where working families can thrive — is resonating with our neighbors.”