Tuesday could be so overwhelming for the Republicans that Democrats will end up with four congressmen in office. Incumbents Jim Marshall and Sanford Bishop are now showing way behind in recent polls.We can expect Gary Black to become Georgia’s new Agriculture Commissioner, having enjoyed the visible support of Tommy Irvin, the longtime commissioner who defeated Black four years ago. Black has reason to be confident and has already given up his job with the Georgia Agribusiness Council in order to assume the duties of Commissioner of Agriculture. Watch for Black to have big numbers in his race against Democrat J.B. Powell, a last minute qualifier for the race. Incumbent Republican Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle has run a quiet campaign for re-election but is expected to win over Democrat Carol Porter. Other expected GOP winners: Brian Kemp will hold on to his seat as Secretary of State; Ralph Hudgens will become the new Insurance Commissioner. Democrat Darryl Hicks has good name recognition but Mark Butler should ride the Republican wave to victory. Expect close races for Attorney general where Democrat Ken Hodges, opposing Sam Olens, has received endorsements from law enforcement around the state, and Democrat Joe Martin has presented better credentials than his GOP opponent, John Barge. And it could be that the race for governor will not be over on Tuesday. The winner would have to receive 50% of the vote and latest polls (if anyone can believe the pollsters) indicate that Republican Nathan Deal is ahead of former Gov. Roy Barnes in the race for governor, but is not showing the necessary 50% because of he votes going to Libertarian candidate, John Monds.
