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House adopts resolution to make probate judge elections nonpartisan

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES · February 11, 2026

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Summary

The House adopted House Resolution 251 to propose a constitutional amendment making probate judge elections nonpartisan; supporters argued the change strengthens judicial independence. Vote: yeas 147, nays 20.

Representative Kimberly New presented House Resolution 251, a proposal to amend the Georgia Constitution so that all probate judges would be elected in nonpartisan contests. New said the resolution would place the question on the ballot for citizens to decide and noted support from judicial councils and former governors.

Supporters framed the measure as a defense of the rule of law and judicial impartiality. Representative Anne Allen Westbrook said the move would help preserve an independent judiciary and rejected partisan framing of court decisions. Representative Stacy Evans said "the law is not partisan" and urged colleagues to support nonpartisan elections.

Opponents or skeptics raised practical and political questions but the floor discussion concluded with the House adopting the resolution; the clerk announced the yeas 147, nays 20. The resolution will be placed on the ballot for voter consideration as required for a constitutional amendment process.