Fleming, Brown Reynolds to Run for Secretary of State
Georgia voters head to the polls to decide the state's next chief elections official on November 3, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Do you prioritize experience in election administration over a legal background for the Secretary of State?
Tim Fleming and Penny Brown Reynolds are competing for the office of Georgia Secretary of State in the general election on November 3, 2026. This official oversees critical functions, including election administration, voter registration, and business filings.
Why it matters
The outcome of this race will determine the leadership overseeing the state's transition to new voting systems as Georgia prepares for the 2028 presidential election. The winner will hold responsibility for certifying election results and managing professional licensing across the state.
The race will be decided by popular vote in the November 3, 2026, general election. Early voting is currently underway, having commenced on October 13, 2026, and concludes on October 30, 2026.
The players
Tim Fleming
He is the current representative for Georgia House District 114 and previously served as the deputy secretary of state under Brian Kemp.
Penny Brown Reynolds
She is an attorney and former Fulton County judge who also gained experience working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Brian Kemp
He is the current Governor of Georgia and the former secretary of state for the state.
The details
Tim Fleming, a current representative for House District 114 who previously served as a Newton County commissioner and chief of staff for Governor Brian Kemp, is running against Penny Brown Reynolds. Brown Reynolds is an attorney and former Fulton County judge who also held a position with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Timeline
Early voting in Georgia began on October 13, 2026.
Early voting concludes on October 30, 2026.
The general election takes place on November 3, 2026.
Political Context
The opposition party continues to raise concerns regarding the state's current management of voter registration rolls and administrative oversight. These groups often push for expanded access to polling locations as a direct counter-policy to the current Secretary of State's operational protocols.
The winner of this election will directly manage the registration process for every voter in the state. Residents should ensure their registration is current and be aware that the next secretary of state will implement shifts to the state's overall voting system.
The takeaway
Voters should note that early voting is currently available until October 30, 2026, to avoid potential lines on Election Day. Preparing for the November 3, 2026, vote involves checking local precinct locations and reviewing the platform of each candidate regarding future ballot technology.
Further reading
Learn more about local ballot measures and candidates on our Georgia Elections page.
Live Poll
Do you prioritize experience in election administration over a legal background for the Secretary of State?
