State Senate candidate Bo Hatchett today picked up a major endorsement from former Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. Deal announced he’s endorsing Hatchett in the 50th district state Senate race.
“I have had the opportunity to know Bo Hatchett and his family for what seems like generations,” Deal says. “Bo worked in my administration. I have witnessed firsthand his character and work ethic and know he will serve us well in the State Senate.”
Before launching his own political career, Deal served in the U.S. Army and as a lawyer and judge. He was a state senator before being elected to Congress and later served two terms as governor (2011-2019).
Deal has deep roots in the district Hatchett hopes to serve, having campaigned and lived in the region for years. The district includes Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, and Towns counties as well as portions of Hall and Jackson.
The former governor calls Hatchett “a strong conservative who North Georgians can trust to represent our values.”
Hatchett responded to the endorsement saying, “Our community, our state, and our country owe Governor and Mrs. Deal a debt of gratitude.” The Habersham County attorney and businessman says it was an honor to work under Gov. Deal in Atlanta and adds it’s an honor to receive his endorsement.
“He is a true statesman and I will work hard to continue his legacy of unwavering commitment to our Northeast Georgia values,” Hatchett says.
Field of candidates
Deal remains popular among the state’s conservative voters and his endorsement is considered a big boost to Hatchett’s campaign.
Hatchett officially qualified to run in the May 19 primary during the opening day of qualifying on March 2 at the State Capitol. So far, four others have also qualified to run in District 50. They are Clayton management consultant Dee Daley, Clarkesville attorney Tricia Hise, Habersham County Commission Chair and real estate developer Stacy Hall, and Jackson County realtor Andy Garrison.
Daley is the only Democrat currently in the race. All of the other candidates are running as Republicans.
Franklin Springs Mayor Lee Moore launched his campaign in early February but has not yet qualified, according to online records from the Secretary of State’s Office.
In January, 50th district state Sen. John Wilkinson (R-Toccoa) blew the race wide open when he announced he would not seek reelection in order to run for Congress. Wilkinson has held the District 50 seat since 2011.
The deadline to register to vote in the May primary is April 20.
