Early voting for the 2026 general election has begun. This year, Georgia voters have a unique opportunity that cannot be missed. Two Public Service Commission (PSC) seats are on the ballot this year. The PSC regulates utility companies, including Georgia Power, and ultimately, the commissioners have the power to stop our electricity bills from climbing even higher. By voting for the two seats on the five-person commission, Georgians can make their voices heard on bill affordability, data centers, and environmental issues like air pollution and transitioning to clean energy sources.
In Georgia, we cannot choose who we buy our power from. The best thing we can do is choose our public service commissioners, whose job it is to hold Georgia Power accountable.
Learn How and Where You Can Vote Early
Early Voting Happening Now
This is a statewide race, meaning every eligible voter in Georgia can vote in both races, no matter where they live. The seats on the ballot this year are for District 3 and District 5. Peter Hubbard, the Democratic candidate who won the District 3 special election race last year, is up for reelection to serve a full six-year term. His Republican opponent is former PSC commissioner Fitz Johnson. The District 5 race is between Democratic candidate Shelia Edwards and Republican candidate Josh Tolbert. The commission currently has a 3–2 Republican majority, so the results of these two races will determine if Republicans maintain control or if the commission flips. Check out the articles below to read where each of the candidates stands on key energy and climate issues, such as data centers, energy costs, and other relevant topics.
How The Public Service Commission Impacts Your Life
Every time Georgia Power wants to raise rates, keep coal plants running, or build more gas plants to power hyperscale data centers, the utility must get the PSC’s approval before moving forward. If a commissioner believes Georgia Power’s request is not justifiable, they can vote against approval or offer alternative proposals that they think better serve customers. Or they can side with Georgia Power and stick hardworking Georgia families with higher power bills and more pollution for years to come.
Make Your Plan to Vote ‘Down Ballot’ for the Public Service Commission and Vote Down Energy Bills
The Public Service Commission races will not be at the top of the ballot this year, so voters who want to have a say on Georgia’s future energy bills and environment must make it a priority to vote all the way down the ballot. Make your plan today to vote early to make sure your voice is heard.
Early voting for the general election runs through Friday, October 30. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.
For additional voting information, including finding your polling place and requesting an absentee ballot, visit peachvote.com.
