Lieutenant governor candidate Burt Jones has narrowly won the Republican nomination for the seat, avoiding a runoff with State Senate President Pro Tem Butch Miller.
Jones earned 50.07% of the vote, with 100% percent of counties/precincts reporting as of Friday afternoon in Tuesday's Primary. Miller finished behind Jones with 31.12% of the vote.
This comes after Jones declared victory in the race Wednesday evening, a declaration that came while some votes were still being counted.
Jones' goal is to unite the Republican party ahead of the November general election.
"Let me be clear: No matter which Democrat candidate emerges from their intraparty fight, he will have to answer for the skyrocketing inflation, record-high gas prices, surging crime and supply chain issues that Georgians are facing every day due to the failed policies of their party," Jones said in his declaration of victory statement. "In the meantime, our campaign will be focused on offering real solutions to these issues and more as we work to improve the lives of every family in our state."
Miller conceded Friday afternoon shortly after the final tally was released by the Secretary of State's Office.
"Earlier today, I spoke with and congratulated the victor, Burt Jones, and wish him well," Miller said in a statement. "I look forward to supporting Burt in the upcoming general election and I am fully committed to his success, the success of the Republican Party, and the success of the State of Georgia. I also salute others in the Republican primary, Ms. Seaver and Mr. McGregor."
Miller said he would not be asking for a recount, despite how close the race came to a runoff.
Jones will face either former Democrat representative Kwanza Hall or former Attorney General candidate Charlie Bailey. Hall received 30.13 percent of the vote, while Bailey received 17.64 percent. The Democrats will face a runoff in June.
