News Summary

Peter Hubbard has won the Democratic primary runoff for the District 3 seat on the Georgia Public Service Commission, positioning him against Republican Fitz Johnson in the upcoming general election. Despite a low voter turnout, Hubbard secured over 18,000 votes ahead of contender Keisha Sean Waites, who has pledged support for his campaign. The election underscores rising concerns about utility costs in Georgia, a pivotal issue for both candidates. The general election is set for November 4, featuring notable contests including a District 2 seat challenge.

Atlanta, Georgia – Peter Hubbard has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary runoff for the District 3 seat on the Georgia Public Service Commission, setting him up for a challenge against Republican incumbent Fitz Johnson in the general election on November 4, 2025. Hubbard won the runoff by over 18,000 votes against fellow contender Keisha Sean Waites.

In the initial primary held on June 17, Waites garnered 47% of the votes while Hubbard received 32%, necessitating a runoff due to neither candidate achieving an outright majority. Despite her strong showing in the primary, Waites was not able to overcome Hubbard in the runoff, but she has pledged to support his campaign in the lead-up to the general election.

The runoff itself saw a low voter turnout, with just over 100,000 ballots cast, representing approximately 1% of Georgia’s registered voters. Hubbard gained substantial support especially from voters in Clayton, DeKalb, and Fulton counties, which make up District 3.

The Georgia Public Service Commission plays a crucial role in regulating utilities, including Georgia Power, and directly influences utility rates for consumers. Rising utility costs have emerged as a significant concern for residents, with customers reportedly facing monthly bill increases of about $43 since 2023. Both Hubbard and Johnson have emphasized accountability from Georgia Power as a key issue in their respective campaigns.

Hubbard’s campaign was bolstered by endorsements from various officials and activists throughout Georgia, including support from state senator Elena Parent and state representative Saira Draper. However, he faced criticism for launching an attack website aimed at discrediting Waites’ qualifications and political career, which may have impacted perceptions during the runoff.

Along with Hubbard’s race, the general election ballot will also feature a contest for the District 2 seat on the commission. Democrat Alicia M. Johnson is set to challenge incumbent Republican Tim Echols in what is expected to be another closely watched contest.

Fitz Johnson, the Republican incumbent, was appointed to the commission in 2021 and is running for election for the first time. If Hubbard manages to win in November, he could potentially serve as the only Democrat on a commission that is currently comprised of five Republicans.

It is noteworthy that the elections for the Public Service Commission had previously been delayed due to a lawsuit alleging that the electoral process discriminated against Black voters. This case remains pending in the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. As the new general election approaches, the outcomes of these unique contests are anticipated to reveal voter sentiment on important issues such as utility rates and other regulatory matters affecting Georgians.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Georgia Audits Low Voter Turnout in PSC Primary Election
Urgent Dog Adoption Events in Atlanta
Atlanta Halts Clearing of Homeless Encampments
Atlanta Board Approves $1.3 Billion Budget for Schools
U.S. Inflation Hits Lowest Increase Since 2021
Senator Ossoff Investigates Corporate Housing Acquisitions in Georgia
AIG Expands Operations in Atlanta with New Innovation Hub
Georgia Power Customers to Avoid Rate Increase
Senator Ossoff Investigates Out-of-State Corporate Home Ownership in Georgia
Challenges to Georgia’s Redrawn Congressional Maps

Additional Resources

• 11Alive
• Wikipedia: Georgia Public Service Commission
• Fox 5 Atlanta
• Google Search: Georgia Public Service Commission
• WSB TV
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Utility
• Access WDUN
• Google News: Georgia Public Service Commission runoff

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

ATLANTA STAFF WRITER The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.