Buckle up, patriots—Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation has ignited a political firestorm in Georgia that’s drawing every Republican with a pulse.
According to the Daily Caller, with Greene stepping down in January 2026, a swarm of GOP hopefuls is scrambling to claim her seat in Georgia’s 14th District, located in the state’s northwest, through a special election.
Among the early birds, Star Black, a business owner and former FEMA official, threw her hat in the ring back in June, boasting nearly 20 years of residency in the Kennesaw area of the district.
Then there’s Jeff Criswell, a metro Atlanta businessman with a sports memorabilia shop, who’s also filed with the Federal Election Commission to take on the challenge.
Elvis Casely, previously a sales professional and actor, has entered the fray too, pushing a platform centered on consumer protection and family-focused policies.
James Tully, the 14th District GOP chairman and a staunch Greene ally, declared his intent to run via social media, having served as one of her key field operatives.
Tully proclaimed, “I’m announcing tonight that I am absolutely running for Congress in the mighty 14th congressional district of northwest Georgia. I am going to continue my desire to be a part and to serve.”
That’s a bold pledge, but in a field this packed, it’ll take more than loyalty to Greene to stand out—voters want substance over sentiment in these divisive times. Dalton City Councilman Nicky Lama, a small business owner, is mulling over a bid, while others are lining up to test the waters.
State Sen. Colton Moore of Trenton is eyeing the seat, though his track record of clashing with party leaders in Atlanta raises eyebrows.
Moore’s past includes an arrest at the State Capitol in January, charged with obstructing law enforcement after allegedly disrupting proceedings near the House Chamber. The Georgia Department of Public Safety stated, “Despite multiple verbal warnings and several attempts to de-escalate the situation, Senator Moore persisted in his attempts to disrupt official proceedings inside the House Chamber.”
Such antics might thrill a certain base, but they risk alienating moderates who crave stability over stunts in a district already steeped in political drama.
Others joining the race include Christian Hurd, a 28-year-old Marine Corps veteran from Whitfield County, and Joseph Bergeman, a middle school teacher, though neither has filed with the FEC yet.
Jared Craig, a Newnan attorney with prior primary experience, kicked off his campaign for the seat on Dec. 1, adding to the growing list of contenders.
Yet, some in the GOP worry this crowded contest could backfire, potentially creating a domino effect where multiple officeholders vacate their current roles to run, exposing other seats to risk. It’s a practical concern, not a personal one, but in today’s hyper-partisan climate, any misstep could cost conservatives dearly—let’s hope the party keeps its eye on the ball instead of chasing progressive distractions.