VALDOSTA — Early voting begins Tuesday, Jan. 22, for the special election to select a District 176 representative.

Anyone interested in voting early should go to the elections office, 2808 N. Oak St. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and is open Monday through Friday.

Early voting always begins three weeks before election day, election officials said.

Election day for the special election is Feb. 12. Ballots can be cast then 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at designated polling places. 

The winner will fill the Georgia Statehouse District 176 seat vacated by Jason Shaw. The district is made up of portions of Lowndes, Atkinson, Lanier and Ware counties.

Shaw took a position with the Public Service Commission.

According to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office, the candidates are:

• James Burchett, an attorney from Waycross (Republican);

• Barbara Griffin, a social worker from Waycross (Democrat);

• Franklin Patten, a businessman from Lakeland (Republican);

• Barbara Seidman, a retiree from Waycross (Democrat).

A runoff, if needed, will be held March 12, according to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office.

Thomas Lynn is a government and education reporter for The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be reached at (229)244-3400 ext. 1256