The republican field in next year’s race for the 6th Congressional District just got a little thinner.
State Sen. Brandon Beach, a republican from Alpharetta, announced today he was withdrawing his candidacy to focus on local government.
“During this campaign, I have come to realize that a calling to public service does not always mean running for higher office. After speaking with Governor Kemp this weekend, I believe that, at this time, I can help more Georgians in the positions I currently hold and be more effective in the State Senate than in Congress,” Beach said in a letter to supporters.
Beach currently represents State Senate District 21, which covers portions of North Fulton, Cobb and Cherokee Counties. In his letter, Beach said he plans to run for re-election to that post next year instead of running for Congress.
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Gov. Brian Kemp spoke in support of Beach’s decision.
“I applaud Senator Beach for his willingness to serve in Congress but respect his decision to remain in the State Senate. Quite honestly, we need bold leadership under the Gold Dome to continue our success and keep Georgia the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” Kemp said. “At the State Capitol, Senator Beach has led efforts to cut red tape and eliminate burdensome regulations on job creators. He has championed crucial infrastructure projects and reforms and worked to protect our conservative Georgia values. I look forward to partnering with Senator Beach in the years to come to lower healthcare costs, protect our families from gangs, enhance our educational outcomes and put hardworking Georgians first.”
Beach’s departure in the race leaves former District 6 Rep. Karen Handel facing off against Marjorie Taylor Greene and Nicole Rodden. The winner of the republican primary will face democratic incumbent Lucy McBath in November 2020.