A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Heard County Election Department on February 5, 2025. The request, made by NC Georgia News, a media organization committed to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, seeks detailed information about candidates running in the upcoming election.
In line with the Georgia Open Records Act § 50.18.70 et seq., we at NC Georgia News have requested an electronic format list of all candidates participating in the forthcoming election. The details requested include each candidate's first, middle, and last names; the office they are running for; jurisdiction of the office; and their party affiliation.
Additionally, we have asked for complete contact information for each candidate. This includes their address, phone number, and email address.
As a media organization, our role involves gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is crucial for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities which encompass holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
We will keep you updated as soon as we receive any response from the Heard County Election Department regarding this request.