Former state judge Penny Brown Reynolds has thrown her hat into the ring for Georgia’s secretary of state position. She announced her Democratic campaign on September 22, 2025, focusing on voting rights and government trust, making her one of the early entrants in what could be a heated 2026 election.
Background on Penny Brown Reynolds
Penny Brown Reynolds brings a mix of legal, government, and public experience to her bid. She served as a Fulton County state judge and later worked in the Biden administration at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, leading civil rights efforts.
Her career also includes a stint on television. From 2008 to 2009, she hosted “Family Court with Judge Penny,” where she resolved family disputes in a reality show format. This visibility helped her build a public profile beyond the courtroom.
Reynolds has strong ties to Georgia politics. She worked as executive counsel for former Governor Roy Barnes, the last Democrat to hold that office. Barnes now chairs her campaign and gave her a key endorsement, praising her integrity and vision.
In her current role, she emphasizes protecting vulnerable groups. Her work in civil rights focused on fairness in agriculture and rural communities, which she plans to carry into state leadership.
Key Campaign Promises
Reynolds aims to make the secretary of state’s office more accessible and fair. She pledges to defend voting rights for all Georgians, regardless of background or location.
Her platform includes several core goals:
- Strengthening election security to build public confidence.
- Supporting small businesses through easier licensing and resources.
- Protecting seniors and others from scams in securities and investments.
She stated that government should serve people, not politics. This message targets voters worried about recent election controversies in Georgia.
Reynolds also wants to restore trust after past disputes. Georgia has seen debates over voting laws and results, especially in 2020 and 2024. Her approach focuses on transparency to address these issues.
The Competitive Field
The 2026 race for secretary of state is shaping up with multiple candidates. On the Democratic side, Reynolds joins voting rights advocate Adrian Consonery Jr., who entered earlier.
Republicans have a crowded primary. Gabriel Sterling, former chief operating officer in the current secretary’s office, is running. He gained attention for defending the 2020 election process.
Other GOP contenders include Kelvin King, a businessman and former Senate candidate, and state Representative Tim Fleming, who chairs a House committee on elections.
Current Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is not seeking reelection. Instead, he launched a bid for governor, citing his record on election integrity.
This election follows Georgia’s role as a battleground state. Recent polls show voters prioritize fair elections, with about 65 percent concerned about fraud, according to a 2025 survey from the University of Georgia.
Endorsements and Support
Reynolds has early backing that could boost her campaign. Former Governor Roy Barnes not only endorses her but leads her team, bringing his network and experience.
She also draws support from civil rights groups and Democratic leaders. Her Biden administration ties appeal to progressives, while her judicial background attracts moderates.
| Supporter | Role | Key Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Roy Barnes | Former Governor, Campaign Chair | “Judge Penny has the vision and integrity to lead.” |
| Civil Rights Advocates | Community Leaders | “She will protect voting rights for all.” |
| Small Business Owners | Local Entrepreneurs | “Her focus on fair licensing helps us grow.” |
This table highlights major endorsements. Barnes’s involvement is notable, as he represented key figures in past Georgia election cases.
Fundraising will be crucial. Early reports show Reynolds raised over $100,000 in the first week, per campaign filings. This puts her ahead of some rivals but behind established Republicans.
Broader Impact on Georgia Politics
Georgia’s secretary of state oversees elections, business licenses, and securities. The role gained national spotlight after 2020, when officials faced pressure over results.
Reynolds’s entry adds diversity to the race. As a Black woman with a varied resume, she represents a shift from traditional candidates.
The election ties into national trends. With 2026 midterms approaching, Georgia could influence control of Congress and state offices.
Voters face choices on issues like voter ID laws and mail-in voting. Reynolds opposes restrictive changes, aligning with Democratic views.
Recent events, such as the 2024 presidential race, heightened focus on election officials. Georgia certified results amid challenges, setting the stage for 2026 debates.
What This Means for Voters
For everyday Georgians, this race affects how elections run and businesses operate. Reynolds promises to make voting easier, especially in rural areas.
She plans statewide outreach. This includes town halls and online sessions to hear concerns.
Experts predict a close contest. Turnout in primaries could hit 30 percent, up from 2022, due to high interest.
If elected, Reynolds would be the first Black woman in this role, marking a historic moment for Georgia.
As the campaign heats up, share your thoughts on the race. What issues matter most to you? Comment below and spread the word to keep the conversation going.
