Gov. Deal Endorses Handel For 6th District Runoff Election

ALPHARETTA, GA -- Gov. Nathan Deal has endorsed Karen Handel for the 6th District seat to replace former U.S. Rep. Tom Price, her campaign announced Thursday.

The boost comes days after Handel forced a runoff election by staving off first-time candidate and Democrat Jon Ossoff.

Deal, a Republican, said that Handel is best equipped to serve the needs of constituents of the 6th District, which encompasses Atlanta's northern suburbs, including parts of Cobb, Fulton and DeKalb counties.

“I'm supporting Karen Handel because she is a strong conservative who will represent the best interests of those in the 6th Congressional District,” Deal said. “She will be a steadfast and unwavering champion for Georgia's priorities in Washington. Republicans will need all hands on deck to defeat Jon Ossoff on June 20th and I look forward to being a part of the effort.”

Deal called the special election in early February after Price, a Roswell doctor, was tapped by the Trump administration to serve as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Qualifying began on Feb. 13 and concluded two days later as 18 candidates — 11 Republicans, five Democrats and two Independents — threw their respective hats in the ring.

Tuesday's election featured much intrigue as Ossoff came just shortof capturing 50 percent of the vote, an outright win. Handel was the top Republican vote-getter, besting a well-known field that included former Johns Creek City Councilman Bob Gray, former state senators Dan Moody and Judson Hill.

Deal's backing is the biggest local support that Handel has received. On Wednesday, President Trump called her by name in a tweet, positioning the runoff as "Hollywood vs. Georgia." Handel said that she welcomed Deal's support as a sign of GOP unity.

“I am humbled by Governor Deal’s endorsement of my campaign. His support will be critically important and should be looked at as a road map as we unify our party, bringing together Republicans and conservatives to stand against Democrats on June 20th," she said.

Image via Handel campaign