U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026 has opened the race for Georgia’s 11th Congressional District, prompting early campaigning ahead of the May 19 primary.
Among the candidates is Pickens County resident Christopher Mora, a Republican who initially launched his campaign in April 2025 to challenge Loudermilk. Following the retirement announcement, Mora is now one of two Republicans officially in the race before the March 6 qualifying deadline.
Mora is the first Pickens County resident to seek federal office in decades. He has lived in Georgia for nearly 30 years and has served three terms as first vice chair of the Georgia GOP’s 11th District Committee. He also previously served as president of the Rotary Club of Jasper.
Speaking at the Pickens County GOP’s February meeting, Mora emphasized what he described as a disconnect between elected officials and constituents. He pledged to run a nontraditional campaign and suggested he would not accept large donations from lobbying groups, contrasting his approach with fellow Republican candidate Dr. John Cowan, who announced his candidacy with $1.5 million in campaign funds.
Mora said he is running out of necessity rather than financial motivation, stating he already has a well-paying job.
On policy, Mora called for stricter enforcement of immigration laws, voiced support for expanded veterans’ benefits, and backed the SAVE Act and a proposed Veterans Bill of Rights. He also expressed opposition to data center construction in the district and said he would support codifying President Trump’s executive orders if Republicans retain control of Congress.
If elected, Mora said he would evaluate every bill by asking three questions: Is it constitutional? Can we afford it? Do we need it?
The General Primary Election will be held May 19, with early voting beginning April 27. The voter registration deadline is April 20.