Open U.S. House race heats up as Loudermilk aide launches bid

Loudermilk announced earlier this month he would not seek another term after six terms in office, creating an open seat in the 11th Congressional District that stretches from metro Atlanta’s outer suburbs to northwest Georgia.

In a solidly Republican district, the GOP primary is expected to determine the next member of Congress. And it’s already shaping up as a competitive and closely watched fight.

Adkerson, 55, is positioning himself as the candidate of continuity. A former small-business owner who became active in the early Tea Party movement, he managed Loudermilk’s original campaign and has spent the past 12 years as his chief of staff.

But he is far from alone.

Dr. John Cowan, a Rome neurosurgeon who was the runner-up to Marjorie Taylor Greene in a 2020 GOP primary, announced weeks ago and has already drawn early endorsements.

Public Service Commissioner Tricia Pridemore recently said she won’t seek another term, fueling speculation she could join the race. And U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach has been calling Republican activists about a potential bid — a move that could draw the attention of President Donald Trump in a district where his endorsement would carry significant weight.

Adkerson is framing his campaign as an effort to advance Trump’s agenda, arguing his time inside a congressional office gives him an advantage in delivering for the district.

“I got into politics years ago because I saw firsthand the damage lousy policies from Washington could cause to regular people and small businesses,” he said. “I think I’ve helped make America better, and I’m ready to step up and do more.”