Black women candidates made major gains across Georgia’s recent primary elections, prompting national political and voting advocacy leaders to describe the results as a significant moment in the continued rise of Black women’s political influence in the South.
Following the primary results, Glynda C. Carr, president/CEO of Higher Heights for America, released a statement praising both Black women candidates and the voters who helped propel them forward in statewide and congressional races.
“Georgia voters made one thing unmistakably clear: Black women are not waiting for the future. We are building it,” Carr said.
Carr described the election results as more than a successful night for individual campaigns, calling them a reflection of broader political momentum and organizing efforts taking place across Georgia and throughout the South.
“This was not just a strong election night,” Carr said. “This was a declaration of political power.”
Among the candidates highlighted by Higher Heights for America was Keisha Lance Bottoms, who advanced in the race for governor of Georgia. If elected, Bottoms would become the nation’s first Black woman governor.
The organization also recognized Tanya Miller for advancing in the race for attorney general and Penny Brown Reynolds for advancing in the race for secretary of state.
In congressional races, Higher Heights pointed to victories and advances by Lucy McBath, Nikema Williams, Amanda Hollowell and Jasmine Clark, along with several other Black women candidates running for office throughout the state.
Carr said the election results came at a time when voting rights and representation remain central issues in national political debates.
“At a time when extremists are working to roll back hard-fought freedoms and silence the voices of Black voters, Georgia answered with organizing, turnout and transformational leadership,” Carr said.
Higher Heights for America framed the election as evidence that Black women continue to play a decisive role in shaping political outcomes, particularly in Southern states expected to be critical battlegrounds during the 2026 midterm elections.
The organization also emphasized the role of Black women voters, volunteers and organizers who participated throughout the campaign season.
“Tonight belongs to every Black woman voter who stood in line, every organizer who knocked on doors, every volunteer who made calls and every young girl watching history unfold,” Carr said.
Carr added that the victories reflected a larger movement centered on protecting voting rights, expanding representation and increasing Black women’s leadership in government.
“Black women are not only running for office,” she said. “We are building governing power.”
Higher Heights for America is a national organization focused on expanding Black women’s political participation and elected representation through advocacy, voter engagement and leadership development initiatives.
