Public Service Commission Primary Update - and What Comes Next
On June 17, Georgia voters took part in a long-delayed primary election for two seats on the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC), the five-member body responsible for regulating utilities like Georgia Power. Though Georgia voters might not be familiar with the PSC, its decisions have a real and lasting impact on our energy bills, our transition to renewable energy, and how utility companies serve Georgia communities.
An election sign in Atlanta, December 2020.
After years of legal challenges that halted these races, the June primary marked a restart of the electoral process—and an important opportunity for voters to weigh in. Here’s what happened.
In the Republican primary for PSC District 2, longtime incumbent Tim Echols handily defeated challenger Lee Muns, securing renomination with more than three times the votes. Echols will face Democrat Alicia Scott Johnson in the general election this November.
In the Democratic primary for PSC District 3, no candidate received the majority needed to win outright. Former Atlanta City Council member Keisha Sean Waites earned the most votes, with about 46% of the total. She’ll advance to a runoff against Peter Hubbard, an energy advocate who finished second with roughly 33%. Two other candidates trailed behind, and a fifth, Daniel Blackman, was disqualified over residency issues before the election.
A runoff election will take place on July 15 to determine which Democratic candidate—Waites or Hubbard—will appear on the ballot in November against Republican Fitz Johnson, who ran unopposed in the GOP primary.
This race may seem technical or obscure, but it’s worth paying attention to. The PSC’s decisions have contributed to a significant rise in Georgia Power rates in recent years—some estimates put the average monthly increase at $43. The Commission also plays a critical role in how Georgia transitions to clean energy and how fairly costs are distributed among customers.
If you’re someone who cares about economic justice, climate stewardship, or simply wants greater accountability for energy decisions, this is your race. Primary elections—especially summer runoffs—often see low turnout. But that means each vote carries more weight.
So what can we do?
Make sure you’re registered and informed about the July 15 runoff between Peter Hubbard and Keisha Waites.
Be ready to vote in the important Nov 4th election for the PSC.
Talk with family, friends, and fellow parishioners about the importance of the PSC.
Educate yourself about the candidates running.
And remember that participating in elections like these is part of our responsibility to the common good.
Faithful citizenship isn’t just about November. It’s about showing up—again and again—for decisions that shape our communities and our future. Let’s keep showing up.
