In a high-stakes special election for Cobb County Commission District 2, Democratic voters sent a clear message, delivering a disappointing night for controversial former school board member Jaha Howard.
Low voter turnout played a significant role, but the results showed that Howard’s troubled past continues to weigh on his political future.
Former State House Representative and unsuccessful candidate for Lieutenant Governor, Erick Allen, took a narrow lead after the first round of results and never looked back on the Cobb County Board of Elections Website. With 734 votes, Allen barely edged out Howard’s 728 in the first round of reports that were first reported.
In addition, the first round of votes showed that newcomer Tracy Stevenson, running on a platform as an independent-minded outsider, came in third with 155 votes or and kept is totals north of 10%. Stevenson’s votes prevented Allen and Howard from reaching the 50% plus one vote, the threshold required to avoid a runoff.
Erick Allen Keeps His Lead
As more results rolled in, Allen expanded his lead, reaching 911 votes compared to Howard’s 818 by 8:45 p.m. Stevenson’s 11% share of the vote continued to ensure a runoff between Allen and Howard. Despite his relatively low total, Stevenson’s role as a spoiler was undeniable. His outsider appeal prevented Allen from clinching a decisive victory on election night.
Allen dominated the northern part of District 2, particularly in the Marietta area, while Howard drew stronger support in Smyrna. The race, largely seen as a contest between Marietta and Smyrna, ended with Marietta’s candidate on top.
Jaha Howard’s Political Problems Continue
Howard’s defeat marks his third loss in less than a year. Known for kneeling during the Pledge of Allegiance as a Cobb County School Board Member, Howard repeatedly courted controversy with divisive rhetoric and actions that jeopardized the district’s accreditation.
His brand of politics continues to alienate many voters, leaving him with dwindling support in broader Democratic circles, as seen by his inability to raise money from outside a few well-placed donors.
The upcoming special election runoff between Allen and Howard will mark the third time these two politicians face each other in less than six months. This unusual situation arises from the courts rejecting Cobb County’s “home rule” provision, forcing a reset of district lines and elections.
Republican Candidate Awaits the Winner
In the Republican primary, Alicia Adams ran unopposed, receiving over 480 votes. Adams will face the winner of the Allen-Howard runoff in what promises to be a heated special general election. With Cobb County trending purple, Adams is poised to capitalize on the Democratic infighting and Howard’s growing unpopularity, should he emerge from the runoff.
District 4: Monique Sheffield Secures Victory
In District 4, incumbent Democrat Monique Sheffield cruised to an overwhelming victory, capturing over 70% of the vote with 2,927 ballots cast in her favor. Her opponent, Yashica Marshall, trailed far behind with only 1,132 votes. Sheffield will now face Republican Matthew Hardwick in the general election.
Hardwick, who led his Republican primary with 70% of the vote, collected 413 votes compared to Julien Grhas’s 142. Hardwick’s support was strongest in the northern and western parts of district 4.
What’s Next
The Allen-Howard runoff promises to be a contentious affair, with both candidates known for their aggressive campaigning and willingness to make bold claims. Voters can expect sharp contrasts between Allen’s experience and Howard’s controversial record.
Low voter turnout makes both commission races interesting, according to some observers.
