Being married to a legislator means navigating the complexities of a demanding public service career while maintaining a family life. For many, this role involves long hours, constant travel, and a commitment that leaves little room for personal time. Spouses often play an essential part in keeping life moving back home, offering support, balancing careers, and providing a steady presence amid political life.
With the 2025 legislative session now underway, Now Habersham takes a closer look at the spouses behind Georgia’s political leaders and the vital roles they play in supporting public service.
Cherishing family time
For Shannon Gooch, wife of Senator Steve Gooch (District 51), spending quality time with her family before the legislative session is crucial.
“The time leading up to the legislative session is all about cherishing the time Steve, Sam, Seth, Sawyer, and I have together,” Gooch shared. “The holiday season consists of my overbearing and ‘weird’ rituals—phone-free dinners and forced quality time activities. These moments give me a sense of calm and readiness for the busy months ahead.”
Understanding the commitment
Life in the legislature isn’t just a commitment for the elected official but for their family as well. The intense demands of public service, long hours in legislative sessions, committee meetings, public forums, and fundraising events can spill over into evenings and weekends, often leaving little time for personal rest or family activities. This requires a deep understanding and support from family members.
Kimberly Anderson, wife of Representative Victor Anderson (District 10), reflected on the learning curve she experienced when her husband first took office. “I didn’t fully understand what the commitment would mean—not just for him, but for me and our family as well,” she said.
Anderson and her husband will celebrate 37 years of marriage this June, and she emphasizes that their relationship is a team effort.
“Being a State Representative is a 24/7 commitment. Sometimes, I miss having him home for dinner or just enjoying the quiet moments we used to take for granted. But then I see the results of his hard work—how he’s brought meaningful change to his constituents, his pride in serving his community, and the respect he’s earned from others.”
Anderson also highlighted the importance of providing emotional support during difficult times. “Seeing him agonizing over someone he is trying to help, nothing falling in place, people hurting, and trying to fix what is broken, I try to be the voice of reason in the calm of the storm.”
Balancing act
Elaine Dunahoo, wife of Representative Emory Dunahoo (District 30), explained that life as a legislator’s spouse was different than she anticipated. “Emory gives his number to everyone, and he talks to everyone who calls,” she laughed. “His heart is to serve, and it is important for him to be the voice for those who elected him.”
The Dunahoos have been married for 43 years, and Elaine stressed the importance of marriage vows.
“God is the center of our marriage. We take our vows seriously—we have never believed another option exists. We instill this in our children and hope they live by it as well.”
Dunahoo, a retired teacher and coach, takes this time during the legislative session as an opportunity for personal reflection. “I use the legislative time as a time for myself. I often call it my ‘vacation’ because it’s nice to just have time to enjoy my hobbies and reflect,” she shared.
Unseen supporters
Spouses often become unofficial “second-in-command,” serving as sounding boards for political decisions and helping to craft messages for constituents or the media. Many spouses also actively participate in community outreach or charitable events, often working behind the scenes without seeking the spotlight.
Challenges aside, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey for many spouses. It requires sacrifice, flexibility, and unwavering support. Still, it also brings a sense of pride and connection to the community, knowing the one they love is making a difference in the lives of others.
Impact on family life
Family life is often the most affected by the demands of being married to a legislator. Many couples are separated by legislative sessions, with one spouse spending extended periods away from home. This can be particularly challenging for families with young children, who may miss their parent’s presence during crucial milestones or everyday moments. For older children, the reality of a parent being absent for long periods can also create struggles.
“Over the past nine years since he was first elected, we have found a balance and a rhythm to the Legislative Season. And it has gotten easier, not only as the boys have grown older, but as we have learned what works for us,” Katie Dubnik, wife of Representative Matt Dubnik, District 29, explained.
Dubnik is the mom of two very involved boys – one in middle and one in high school. She also serves as president of Forum Communications, a strategic marketing agency in Gainesville. “Matt is as committed to being here with us as much as we are to supporting him. Many nights, he comes home and burns up the road to and from Atlanta to watch the boys’ games, attend community events, or just enjoy a night with the family, all before scurrying back to Atlanta early the next morning,” she added.
Despite the challenges, these legislative couples find ways to make the most of their time together. They may schedule personal time between sessions or reconnect the family during breaks. It often takes great organization, flexibility, and compromise.
Shared vision
Although not easy, these spouses have found a way to share the vision and use the opportunity to make tangible differences in their communities and the lives of others. It takes patience, resilience, and a willingness to sacrifice personal time for the sake of the greater good. And when a legislator succeeds, it often reflects the unwavering support and partnership received from his or her spouse.
