EC Georgia News

State Representative Barry Fleming (R) has been appointed by Governor Brian Kemp to a Superior Court judgeship in the Columbia Judicial Circuit. This development has triggered preparations for both the transition within the Columbia Judicial Circuit and the upcoming special election to fill Fleming's now-vacant seat in the House.

As reported by AP News, Fleming is scheduled to be sworn in on January 10. The process for selecting judges under Kemp involves candidates recommended by the Judicial Nominating Commission, a body appointed by the governor himself. Fleming, who previously played a significant role in crafting a contentious 2021 election law and was subsequently removed from a chairmanship, lost his bid for House speaker in 2022. His election law imposed restrictions on mail-in voting and significantly amplified the legislature's authority in supervising elections' conduct and administration. Recognized earlier for passing voter ID legislation in 2004, Fleming returned to the state House in 2012 after an unsuccessful congressional race in 2008. Following Fleming's resignation, Kemp is required to call a special election within ten days, with an election window of 30 to 60 days that could potentially coincide with Georgia's March 12 presidential primary.

A document from the Georgia General Assembly reveals that Fleming is a founding partner at Fleming Nelson, LLP in Augusta, Georgia. Prior to this, he held a partnership at Fulcher Hagler LLP for eleven years. Before commencing his tenure in the Georgia House of Representatives in 2002, he chaired the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. Among his accolades are the Guardian of Justice Award from the Georgia District Attorney’s Association and the Legislator of the Year Award from the Georgia Family Council. He also serves as chairman of the Columbia County Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Oversight Panel. Fleming resides in Harlem, Georgia with his wife Paige and son Zach and actively participates in various roles at Harlem Baptist Church while holding memberships in organizations such as the Gideons and the National Rifle Association.

The Augusta Chronicle reports that the 125th House District, which Fleming previously represented, encompasses portions of Columbia and McDuffie counties.