Democrats Flip Two Georgia PSC Seats with Over 60% of Vote, Drawing GOP Criticism Over House Recess

Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene publicly criticized the House of Representatives' recess schedule following significant Republican losses in the state's Public Service Commission (PSC) elections. Greene stated, "It's absolutely the worst political move to have the House in recess and for us to not be here working ... there's a lot of disenfranchised 2024 voters and I think that was obvious in Tuesday's election."

On November 4, 2025, Democratic candidates Alicia Johnson and Peter Hubbard achieved a notable victory, flipping two seats on the Georgia Public Service Commission. Johnson secured 62.71% of the vote against incumbent Republican Tim Echols in District 2, while Hubbard garnered 62.91% against incumbent Republican Fitz Johnson in District 3. This marks the first time Democrats have won a statewide non-federal office in Georgia since 2006.

The elections, which had been delayed by a lawsuit, became a referendum on rising energy costs in Georgia. Democratic candidates campaigned heavily on utility bill affordability, a concern amplified by the PSC's approval of six rate increases over the past two years. The newly elected commissioners are expected to advocate for policies aimed at lowering consumer utility expenses and promoting clean energy initiatives.

Greene's comments highlight a perceived disconnect between legislative action and voter sentiment, particularly among those she termed "disenfranchised 2024 voters." Her remarks suggest a belief that the House's absence from Washington during this period contributed to Republican setbacks, despite the PSC races being state-level contests. The House of Representatives was scheduled for a two-week recess in November, including time off for Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, though it was in session between November 3-6.

The Democratic victories are seen as a potential bellwether for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections in Georgia, where several high-profile races are anticipated. The outcome underscores the impact of local and state issues, such as utility costs, on voter behavior and could signal a shift in the state's political landscape.