On Friday, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Family Policy Alliance of Georgia endorsed Dawson County politician Will Wade for the upcoming District 9 State House race.  

District 9, which represents portions of Lumpkin, Dawson and Forsyth counties, was previously held by longtime legislator State Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville), who will be running for Georgia’s 9th Congressional district seat in the upcoming election. 

In statements accompanying their endorsements, both groups cited Wade’s experience in education and banking as part of their decision to back the candidate. 

“After vetting the candidates running for Georgia’s 9th House District, our members believe there is a clear choice in who will champion economic development opportunities for North Georgia,” David Raynor, Georgia Chamber senior vice president of Public Affairs said in the release. “The Georgia Chamber is proud to endorse pro-business candidates like Will Wade and looks forward to working with him under the Gold Dome if elected.”

In an email to the Dawson County News, Wade stated that he was honored by the endorsements. 

“As a career community banker who has spent over 22 years helping small businesses and families, it’s truly rewarding to be recognized for the small part I’ve contributed to our district’s economic vibrance,” Wade said. “Each community is unique and these organizations are a huge help to making things thrive for the business community as well as the citizens of State House District 9.” 

Since Tanner announced his intentions to step down from the District 9 seat to run for congress, seven candidates, including Wade, announced their candidacy for the seat. 

Candidates include Clint Smith, Steve Leibel, Zach Tumlin, Doug Sherill, Tyler Tolin, Sharon Ravert and Wade.