State House District 176 in Georgia State House District 176, Georgia

2026 Primary Election

• James D Burchett — Incumbent Georgia House Majority Caucus Whip in Waycross, GA

  James Burchett is an incumbent Republican State Representative for Georgia's District 176, serving since 2019. A husband, father, business owner, conservative leader, and attorney, he is a lifelong South Georgian. His platform prioritizes lowering taxes, investing in rural development including broadband, and bolstering public safety by supporting law enforcement. He champions agriculture and forestry, and advocates for workforce readiness through technical training to create local career opportunities. He recently secured a significant relief package for farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene. He is seeking re-election to continue his work for the district.

• Michael R Dockery — Middle school educator in Waycross, GA

  Michael Dockery, a Republican middle school educator from Waycross, Georgia, is running for the State House District 176 seat in 2026. A native of Coffee County and a Citadel alumnus, he lives with his wife Monica and daughter Maggie. Dockery emphasizes his background in public education as a calling that shaped his leadership. His platform includes transparent government, responsible spending, strong schools, reliable infrastructure, safe communities, protecting individual rights, and supporting congressional term limits. He aims to listen to South Georgia families, fight for local priorities, and bring common sense back to politics, driven by a lifelong commitment to public service.

• Marcus Tyrone Ryan — Marine Corps veteran and commercial truck driver in Lakeland, GA

  Marcus Ryan is a Democratic candidate vying for the Georgia House of Representatives District 176 seat in the primary election scheduled for May 19, 2026. A Marine Corps veteran and commercial truck driver, Ryan centers his campaign on key areas including improving education, strengthening local economies—especially agriculture and forestry—and fostering safer communities. He aims to secure the District 176 seat, currently held by a Republican, in what is historically a Republican-leaning district. Ryan officially launched his campaign in Lakeland, Georgia.