State Senate District 28 in Georgia State Senate District 28, Georgia

2026 Primary Election

• Donzella Johnson James — Incumbent State Senator in Atlanta, GA

  Donzella Johnson James is an experienced Democratic State Senator representing Georgia's 35th District in Metropolitan Atlanta, including parts of Fulton and Douglas Counties. Holding a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and political science, Senator James has a distinguished tenure, having served multiple terms since 1995, returning to the Senate in 2009 after a brief hiatus. She currently chairs Interstate Cooperation and is a member of the Education and Youth, Special Judiciary, and Economic Development committees. Senator James advocates for progressive change, focusing on crime reduction, environmental protection, stronger drug laws, economic development, affordable healthcare, and quality education. She has sponsored or co-sponsored over 400 pieces of legislation, including efforts for autistic children's insurance coverage and drug-free commercial zones.

• Mel Keyton — Engineer in GA

  Mel Keyton, a Democratic Party candidate, is running for the Georgia State Senate District 28. An engineer by profession, he attended Georgia Tech and Atlanta Technical College and has been affiliated with the Hampton Oak's Home Owners Association. Keyton is campaigning on a platform focused on HOA reform, smart property tax relief, and stronger communities across Mableton, Douglasville, and South Fulton. His policy positions include community-centered accountability in criminal justice, 100% state property tax exemption for disabled veterans, holding insurance companies accountable, establishing a standalone emergency department in South Fulton, and capping HOA fees while providing property tax relief for long-term homeowners and seniors.