Georgia US Senate Race Update and Implications for Public Education

Yesterday, control of the United States Senate was at stake as Georgia held two run-off elections to choose their delegates to the upper house of Congress, the results of which will determine the balance of power in Washington. If the Republicans win either race, they will maintain the majority in the Senate. However, if the Democrats win both races, they will hold 50 of the 100 seats, creating a 50-50 tie. As a result, Vice-President-Elect Kamala Harris would serve as the tie-breaking vote when needed, effectively giving the Democrats a 51-50 majority.

In the race for the standard 6-year term, incumbent Senator David Perdue faced off against Jon Ossoff. Senator Kelly Loeffler faced challenger Raphael Warnock in a special election for the remainder of the Senate term ending January 3, 2023. Loeffler was appointed to the US Senate by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp when former US Senator Johnny Isakson retired in December of 2019 due to health concerns. 

As of this update, the Associated Press has declared Warnock the victor in the special election. However, Senator Loeffler has not conceded, telling her supporters and the press that there is still a path to victory. In his contest with Senator Perdue, Ossoff has also declared victory. The Associated Press has stated that race is still too close to call. 

The results of these elections will undoubtedly impact policy issues affecting public education throughout the United States. At a press conference earlier today, Governor Cuomo congratulated the Democrats on their victories and US Senator Chuck Schumer (NY) for his success in becoming the next Senate Majority Leader. The governor was hopeful that with these victories the federal government will commit to provide substantial aid to New York as well as repeal State and Local Tax deduction caps that have harmed New Yorkers. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as appropriate.