Key voter dates and information for Georgia Senate runoffs

For the next two months, Georgia is going to be a hotbed of political activity. Control of the U.S. Senate rests in Georgia voters’ hands.

The upcoming Jan. 5 runoff will determine the winners of two key Senate races. GOP Sen. Kelly Loeffler is trying to hold off a formidable challenge by Democratic opponent Rev. Raphael Warnock. Sen. David Perdue faces strong opposition from Democrat Jon Ossoff.

The District 4 Public Service Commission race between incumbent Republican Lauren Bubba McDonald, Jr., and Democrat Daniel Blackman will also likely appear on the ballot.

Georgians may now request absentee ballots for the runoff. County registrars can start mailing them on Nov. 18.

The deadline to register to vote in the runoff is Dec. 7. Early voting begins Dec. 14.

Qualified voters with a valid ID can register to vote online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s office or at their local registrar’s office.

It takes up to four weeks to process online registration applications, so those wanting to vote on Jan. 5 should keep that in mind.

Check with the county election office where you live to find out the early voting locations and for your assigned precinct. Early voters may cast ballots at any of the available precincts, but those who wait until election day must cast ballots at their assigned precinct.

Some counties, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas, provide estimated voter wait times online. Check to see if your county offers that option.