Rory Chaney has announced her intention to run as a certified write-in candidate for the Ocmulgee District 5 seat on the Jeff Davis County Commission in the November 3, 2026, election. If elected, Chaney would become part of an uncommon chapter in local politics, as successful write-in campaigns are relatively rare. In announcing her campaign, Chaney said her decision to run is rooted in her family’s long-standing connection to Jeff Davis County and a desire to serve the community. “My husband, Joel, and I have long had a passion for making Hazlehurst and Jeff Davis County a better place,” Chaney said. “That commitment didn’t begin with a campaign for public office.”
Chaney shared that her husband’s family returned to Hazlehurst from California during his childhood and has called the community home for many years. She moved to Hazlehurst after the couple married in 1999, and together they have raised three children here. Today, they also have four grandchildren who are growing up in the community.
“I want to be in a position to help make not only their future better, but the future of all families in Jeff Davis County,” she said. Chaney said her motivation for seeking office is based on public service rather than personal recognition. “I am not running for a County Commission seat because I want a title,” she said. “I don’t need a title. What I do need is the peace of mind of knowing I’ve done everything within my power to help ensure the people of this county have someone in office who truly loves and cares about our community.”
Chaney concluded her announcement by asking for the support of voters in the Ocmulgee District. “I hope to earn the support of the voters of Ocmulgee District 5 as a write-in candidate on November 3, 2026,” she said. #doitlady #writeinrory The special election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Under Georgia law, only votes cast for certified write-in candidates are counted. Voters in the Ocmulgee District who wish to support a certified write-in candidate must write the candidate’s name on the ballot as instructed during the voting process.
