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SOUTH GEORGIA (WALB) - A state judge has ruled Republican candidate Terence L. Fowler Sr. is not qualified to run for Georgia State Senate District 12, following a residency challenge filed by Will Davis, chairman of the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia for the Democratic Party of Georgia.

The race, which now be final in May barring any possible additional review, will be between three Democratic candidates.

Davis said he filed the challenge contesting Fowler’s eligibility to seek the District 12 seat. A hearing was held April 2, 2026, with both parties representing themselves. Davis said the court’s ruling was issued Friday.

According to Davis, the challenge argued Fowler’s listed address on his voter registration did not meet residency requirements under Georgia law and that Fowler cast a ballot in the November 2025 general election in Fulton County.

Georgia’s constitution and state election law require state senators to have been a citizen of Georgia for at least two years, and a legal resident of the district for at least one year prior to the election. Davis also cited state law that allows an eligible voter to challenge a candidate’s qualifications by filing a written complaint with the Secretary of State within a set timeframe after the qualifying deadline.

In a campaign statement dated April 24, 2026, Fowler announced he was suspending his campaign following what he described as a residential challenge to his candidacy. Fowler said he respected the court’s decision and “accept[s] this outcome with dignity.”

Fowler also offered endorsements in multiple local races and urged voters—particularly Republicans—to unite behind Corey Morgan for the Senate District 12 race.

Davis said Fowler has the right to seek additional review, including filing a motion for agency review. Davis added that the Board of Registrations and Elections will be guided by the Georgia Secretary of State on procedures affecting the primary and general election.

Senate District 12 includes South Georgia counties. The election is to replace long-time senator Freddie Powell Sims.

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