Paris and Lucas Prepare for Run-Off Election

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The race for the State Senate District 26 seat is one that Miriam Paris and David Lucas are both very familiar with.

The two faced off last year for the same spot, before Paris won the title. But this year’s race is different. Paris says she’s evolved over the past year.

“Last year, I didn’t have a lot of ideas as to what went on under the Gold Dome, but this year I do know,” Paris said.

For Lucas, redistricting changes things.

“This time you don’t have that many republican precincts in the district,” Lucas said.

Lucas explains that the districts have changed but his politics are still the same.

“I’m a straight democrat. Not a tea tower or car roll conservative tea party republican,” Lucas said, “My opponent runs as a democrat but basically she’s a republican.”

Paris says this isn’t the case.

“I am a democrat but I think in this republican led government that we are in, we’ve got to have representation that knows how to get along,” Paris said.

She believes her background in the senate makes her the woman for the job.

“I believe my experience gives me an edge over my opponent. He has never served in senate.”

Lucas feels his longevity as a house representative speaks for itself.

“The proof is what have you done and I think I have that track record,” Lucas said.

At this point in the race, both candidates just hope to reach the entire district.

“All of my counties are equally as important,” Paris said, “and I will make sure that my constituents know that.”

Lucas replied, “You run and you get elected from seven counties therefore you have to focus on all seven counties, not just one.”

Until they meet again on election day, the candidates will work to keep their campaign momentum alive.

“I feel good,” Lucas said. “You know, we only missed not having a run-off by 110 votes.”

Paris said, “I feel great, I feel really engerized,”