6th District Race: Handel Gains Endorsement From Chambliss

ALPHARETTA, GA -- Karen Handel, one of 11 Republicans running in the race to fill Georgia's 6th Congressional District seat vacated by Tom Price, has picked up support from a well-known public servant.

Handel has received the endorsement of former Republican U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, her campaign said Monday.

In a video message posted on YouTube, Chambliss said Handel has been a friend of his for years, and has had the opportunity to work closely with her during her service as chair of the Fulton County Commission and Georgia's Secretary of State.

Chambliss served in the United States Senate from 2003 to 2015.

"Karen is one of those people who simply gets things done," he said. "Her reputation from Atlanta to Washington is that she is the kind of person...that you can work with. And she will do what she says she's going to do."

Handel is the candidate he "feels most comfortable" with as Republicans work to maintain control of the seat, which covers north Fulton and parts of Cobb and DeKalb counties.

"It’s an honor and a privilege to receive the support of Senator Chambliss, who was an effective advocate in Washington," Handel added. "If elected to represent the 6th Congressional District, I intend to lead by his example and always put the interest of Georgians first."

Chambliss's announcement follows a poll released by Fox 5 Atlanta showing Handel and Democratic contender Jon Ossoff leading the race of 18 candidates. According to Fox 5 Atlanta, Ossoff leads the race with 40 percent, and he's followed by Handel at 20 percent.

Republicans Bob Gray and Judson Hill each follow with 10 percent, and Dan Moody is close behind at 8 percent.

Early voting in the race began Monday, March 27. Polls will open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 18 for the special election.

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