Chattooga County Unofficial Election Results
Here are the unofficial and incomplete results of the May 19, 2026 General Primary Election held in Chattooga County: 
Jones and Jackson Advance to GOP Runoff for Georgia Governor
Georgia Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones has advanced to a Republican runoff in the race for governor following Tuesday’s Primary Election.
According to statewide results, Jones and businessman Rick Jackson emerged as the top two Republican candidates and will now face each other in a runoff election. Neither candidate received the required majority of votes needed to secure the nomination outright.
Jones, who currently serves as Georgia’s lieutenant governor, carried a number of counties across Northwest Georgia, including strong support in Chattooga County. Jackson also performed well statewide, setting up what is expected to be a closely watched runoff race in the coming weeks.
The winner of the Republican runoff will advance to the General Election later this year.
Chattooga County Voters Choose Fuller, Thomas In Republican Primary
Chattooga County Republican Primary voters overwhelmingly supported U.S. Rep. Clay Fuller in Tuesday’s Primary Election.
Fuller received well over 80 percent of the local Republican vote in a crowded field of candidates. Former State Senator Colton Moore finished second with just over 9 percent. Fuller will face Democrat Shawn Harris in the November General Election.
In the State Senate race for the seat formerly held by Moore, State Senator Lanny Thomas was the strong favorite among Chattooga County Republican voters. Former Chattooga County Commissioner Blake Elsberry finished second, followed by Denise Burns in third.
Chattooga County Republicans also favored Mike Collins in the race to challenge U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, while Burt Jones was the county’s Republican pick for governor.
On the Democratic ballot, Chattooga County voters heavily supported former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms in the race for governor.
In the State House District 12 race, Republican incumbent Eddie Lumsden and Democratic challenger Holly Chaney both faced no opposition in Tuesday’s Primary Election.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - May 19, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 19, 2026:
Warm, Dry Weather Continues Today; Rain Chances Return Wednesday
Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect warm and mostly dry weather today as a dry air mass remains in place across the region. Skies will be mostly sunny, with only some high clouds and fair-weather clouds developing during the afternoon.
High temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s across the area, while overnight lows will only fall into the low to mid 60s. Most communities will remain rain-free today, though an isolated afternoon shower or thunderstorm cannot be ruled out near the Georgia-Alabama line.
Rain chances will begin increasing Wednesday as a weak cold front approaches North Georgia. Scattered afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms are expected through the end of the week and into the weekend, especially across North and Northwest Georgia.
Forecasters say the pattern will become more summer-like, with warm and muggy conditions and hit-or-miss storms each day. While any rainfall will be welcome, the scattered nature of the storms is not expected to bring widespread drought relief.
Chattooga County Voters Head To Polls Today For Primary Election Day
Today is Primary Election Day in Chattooga County and across Georgia, with voters heading to the polls to cast ballots in local, state, and federal races.
Polling locations across Chattooga County opened at 7 a.m. this morning and will remain open until 7 p.m. Any voter who is in line by 7 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.
Residents are reminded to bring a valid photo ID when voting. Acceptable forms of identification include a Georgia driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, military ID, or other approved government-issued photo identification.
Election officials encourage voters to confirm their polling location before heading out. Remember, no voting will take place today at the Chattooga County Registrars Office – you must vote in your local precinct.
Voters who requested absentee ballots are also reminded that completed ballots must be returned by the time polls close this evening.
Lee Bohannon Named Interim Head Football Coach At LaFayette High School
LaFayette High School has announced Lee Bohannon as the interim head football coach for the upcoming 2026 football season.
Coach Bohannon joined the Ramblers coaching staff earlier this spring as the team’s new defensive coordinator. He now steps into the head coaching role following the departure of Coach Ethan Thompson, who recently accepted a head coaching position in Arizona.
According to school officials, Bohannon brings 36 years of football coaching experience spanning schools in Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee.
A LaFayette High School alumnus and former Rambler coach, Bohannon is returning with what school leaders describe as a high-energy approach, deep knowledge of the game, and a strong passion for the LaFayette football program.
The school is encouraging the Rambler community to welcome Coach Bohannon back to “100 Rambler Drive” as preparations begin for the 2026 season.
Georgia Gas Tax Suspension Offers Relief Ahead Of Memorial Day Travel
As Memorial Day weekend and the summer travel season approach, Georgia drivers are getting some relief from the state’s extended gas tax suspension.
The statewide average for regular gasoline is currently around $4.00 per gallon, though prices can change overnight. That is about 49 cents below Georgia’s record high of $4.49 set in June 2022.
AAA says drivers can help stretch their fuel budgets by planning routes ahead of time, comparing gas prices, and driving more efficiently.
Area gas price averages include Chattooga County at $3.88, Floyd County at $3.92, Walker County at $3.92, Gordon County at $3.95, DeKalb County, Alabama at $4.08, and Cherokee County, Alabama at $4.00.
Georgia’s average is about 5 cents lower than last week, 35 cents higher than last month, and $1.08 higher than this time last year. Filling up a standard 15-gallon tank now costs about $60.
Nationwide, the average price for regular gasoline is around $4.51 per gallon, just below the record high of $5.01 set in 2022. AAA says drivers could face the highest Memorial Day gas prices in four years as road travel increases.
In Georgia, the most expensive metro markets are Macon, Atlanta, and Savannah. The least expensive include Rome, Catoosa-Dade-Walker, and Brunswick.
Community Blood Drive Planned Wednesday At Mount Vernon Mills In Trion
A community blood drive will be held tomorrow at Mount Vernon Mills in Trion.
The blood drive is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the mill located at 91 4th Street in Trion. Organizers are encouraging donors to make an appointment ahead of time.
Blood Assurance officials remind donors to eat a healthy meal, drink plenty of water, and avoid energy drinks before donating blood.
Donors can also save time on the day of their appointment by completing the Blood Assurance QuickScreen health questionnaire before arriving.
Anyone with questions about donating blood, or those needing assistance in Spanish, can contact Mitzi at 706-618-9108.
Summerville Santa Special Tickets Now On Sale For 2026 Holiday Season
The City of Summerville has announced that tickets are now available for the popular Summerville Santa Special train excursions for the 2026 holiday season.
The rides will take place aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s holiday train and are scheduled for November 28-29, December 5-6, and December 11-12.
Organizers say the annual event offers families a festive Christmas experience in downtown Summerville, complete with holiday decorations, shopping, and special activities for children. Officials describe the event as having a “small-town Hallmark movie” atmosphere.
Tickets are priced at $24 for ages 2 and older, and organizers encourage residents to purchase early because the rides traditionally sell out.
Tickets can be purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum website.
Officials Urge ATV Safety As Summer Riding Season Begins
With school letting out and summer getting underway, safety officials are reminding families across Northwest Georgia to use caution when riding ATVs and other off-road vehicles.
Dozens of serious ATV crashes happen each year in Georgia, both on trails and on public roads. Officials say many of those accidents involve riders not wearing helmets, carrying extra passengers, or operating vehicles on paved highways where ATVs are generally prohibited.
Georgia law restricts most ATVs from operating on public paved roads and highways. Riders are also reminded that all traffic laws — including distracted driving and DUI laws — still apply when operating off-road vehicles.
Safety experts strongly recommend wearing a DOT-approved helmet, along with goggles, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots while riding. Bicycle helmets are not considered adequate protection for ATV use.
Families are also encouraged to follow manufacturer age recommendations. Federal guidelines prohibit dealers from selling adult-sized ATVs for use by children under 16 years old.
Officials say riders should never carry passengers on single-rider ATVs and should avoid riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Hands-on safety training is also encouraged for both children and adults. Riders can find certified ATV safety courses through the ATV Safety Institute and locate approved riding areas through the U.S. Forest Service, including trails in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
Authorities say the safest place to ride is on designated off-road trails and private property where riding is permitted.
Proposed Georgia Power Deal Promises Small Savings After Years Of Rising Bills
Georgia Power customers could see slightly lower electric bills later this year under a proposed agreement now headed to the Georgia Public Service Commission for approval.
The utility company says the deal would save customers about $285 million annually statewide. For the average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month, that works out to roughly $4.04 per month — or less than $50 a year.
Consumer advocates, however, say the savings are modest compared to the sharp increases customers have faced over the past several years. Since 2023, Georgia Power customers have seen multiple rate hikes tied to fuel costs, storm recovery expenses, and construction costs connected to the Vogtle nuclear expansion project.
Critics argue that while any reduction helps, many families are still paying significantly more for electricity than they were just a few years ago, especially heading into the high-demand summer season.
The agreement would spread certain fuel and storm recovery costs over a longer period of time while also applying additional tax credits to offset customer bills. Some of the storm-related expenses are connected to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
The proposal now goes before the Georgia Public Service Commission, which has faced criticism in recent years from consumer groups who say regulators have too often sided with the utility company during rate cases.
If approved, the changes would take effect this summer.
Georgia State Patrol Warns Drivers About Text Message Scam
The Georgia State Patrol is warning drivers about a scam involving fake text messages claiming to be from law enforcement.
According to GSP, scammers are sending messages saying recipients have outstanding violations or fines connected to their vehicle. The messages may threaten enforcement action or arrest and urge people to click a link to make a payment.
State officials say GSP troopers will not send text messages demanding money, threatening arrest, or asking drivers to click a link to resolve official violations.
Anyone who receives one of these messages should not click the link, reply, provide personal information, or send payment.
Drivers who are concerned about a possible citation or fine should contact the Georgia Department of Public Safety or their local court directly using verified contact information.
Officials say these scams are designed to create fear and urgency, and drivers should slow down, verify first, and contact the proper agency directly if they have questions.
Arrest Report - Monday - May 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 18, 2026:
Warm Temperatures Continue Across Northwest Georgia; Storm Chances Increase Later This Week
Residents across Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County can expect another warm day Monday, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 80s and lower 90s.
According to the National Weather Service, only a few isolated thunderstorms are expected this afternoon near the Georgia-Alabama border, and overall storm coverage should remain much lower than what the area experienced Sunday.
Forecasters say high pressure over the region will limit widespread storm development through Tuesday. Winds are expected to remain out of the south at 5 to 10 mph, with overnight lows settling into the mid-60s.
Rain chances are expected to increase beginning Wednesday as a cold front approaches North Georgia. The front is expected to stall near the area later in the week, bringing a higher chance of afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms through the upcoming weekend.
The greatest storm coverage is expected across the northern half of Georgia, including Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated at this time, forecasters say a few strong storms and periods of heavy rainfall cannot be ruled out.
Temperatures are expected to remain above normal through the week, although increased cloud cover and storm activity could bring slightly cooler afternoons later this week.
Election Day Is Tuesday In Chattooga County
Election Day for the May 19, 2026 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election is tomorrow in Chattooga County.
Polls will be open Tuesday from 7 AM until 7 PM. Voters are reminded that they must go to their assigned Election Day polling location, not the Registrars Office.
According to the Chattooga County Board of Elections, 1,301 ballots were cast during Advance Voting, which has now ended.
As of Saturday, May 16, at 7:30 AM, 53 absentee by mail ballots had been issued. Of those, 42 had been accepted and 11 remained outstanding. The deadline to submit an application for an absentee by mail ballot has passed.
Voters will be required to show a government-issued photo ID when checking in to vote. Those voting in person will also be asked to select a Democratic, Republican, or Nonpartisan ballot.
Health Inspection Scores - First Half of May 2026
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department has released its latest food service inspection scores for the first half of May 2026.
All listed locations received scores in the 90s or above, with three locations receiving perfect scores of 100.
Pudding Pops’ base of operation and mobile unit, both located at 190 Alred Street in Summerville, each received a perfect score of 100 during inspections on May 12.
Lyerly School also received a perfect score of 100 during its May 1 inspection.
Other scores included Waffle House in Summerville with a 96 on May 8, and Zaxby’s in Summerville with a 99 on May 7.
For more information, or for any complaints about any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, residents may contact the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Summerville Woman Charged With Harassing Communications In Rome
A Summerville woman was jailed in Rome after reports said she harassed staff at Atrium Health Floyd.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 43-year-old Treva Misuni Wiggins of Summerville was taken into custody after allegedly contacting the hospital despite previously being banned from the facility.
Reports stated that Wiggins had been informed that Atrium Health Floyd would no longer provide her treatment. Despite that notice, authorities said she allegedly continued to contact the hospital, leading to the charge.
Wiggins was charged with harassing communications.
Lyerly Man Charged With Exploitation Of Elderly Rome Man
A Lyerly man has been booked into the Floyd County Jail after police said he exploited an elderly Rome man who was battling stage 4 lung cancer.
According to reports, 30-year-old Holland Tyler Bishop allegedly took and wrote a check belonging to the victim for his own use without permission.
Police said the check was written in April of 2024 and was in the amount of $1,300.
Bishop has been charged with exploitation of the elderly or disabled.
Walker County To Celebrate Grand Opening Of Adventure Acres Park
Walker County officials will host a grand opening celebration for the new Adventure Acres park on Wednesday, May 20, from 4 PM until 6 PM.
The new park is located at 370 Salem Road in Rossville.
The celebration will include a brief program, ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the official activation of the park’s splash pad. Refreshments and giveaway items will also be available while supplies last.
Adventure Acres was funded primarily through a $2.2 million American Rescue Plan Act grant. The park features a nature-themed playground with more than 60 components, including a multi-lane zip track, swings, climbing boulders, a splash pad, quarter-mile walking trail, open green space, pavilion, restrooms, community Wi-Fi hotspot, and solar-powered charging station.