ATLANTA — A former aide to Donald Trump is poised to secure a seat in Congress from Georgia during Tuesday’s elections, while a veteran representative is anticipated to secure his 17th term against a former official from Trump’s administration.

These elections represent the most prominent congressional contests within the state, occurring at a time when there are no statewide candidates on the ballot. Voters throughout Georgia will also weigh in on three referendums, including one aimed at capping property tax increases based on homeowners’ values. However, the most intense competition is expected in various state House races, where Democrats aim to diminish the Republican majority.

Both major political parties are vying for all 14 congressional districts in Georgia, where Republicans currently maintain a 9-5 edge. Each party appears likely to retain control of the seats they currently occupy, which would keep the balance of power unchanged in the closely divided U.S. House of Representatives.

Brian Jack, the ex-aide to Trump, aims for his first term in the House representing Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District, a politically conservative area located south and west of Atlanta, which is open due to Congressman Drew Ferguson’s retirement.

At 36 years old and originally from Peachtree City, Jack served as the political director during Trump’s presidency and subsequently worked with former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. His campaign heavily leans on Trump’s endorsement and access to McCarthy’s fundraising capabilities, propelling him to win a competitive Republican primary. Jack’s opponent is Democrat Maura Keller, a retired Army lieutenant colonel from Fayetteville, who emphasizes issues such as abortion rights, improved veterans’ services, and wage increases. Jack positions himself as a collaborator with Trump on economic and immigration matters.

In the other significant race, Republican Wayne Johnson of Macon faces a challenging battle against incumbent Democrat Sanford Bishop in southwest Georgia’s 2nd District. Bishop has consistently won reelection, despite Republican efforts to end his long-standing term. Johnson, a former U.S. Department of Education employee, has committed to prioritizing the economic health of his constituents in the district, which spans 30 counties, including Columbus and Macon.

Bishop describes himself as a moderate who engages with predominantly white farmers critical to the rural economy and advocates for military installations. His campaign centers on his previous legislative success and the advantages of his seniority.

Georgia voters are also considering a constitutional amendment aimed at controlling the rise of property tax bills by capping how much a home’s increasing value can be taxed. This proposed measure would restrict property value increases for taxation to the broader inflation rate each year.

Supporters argue that this will shield current homeowners from ever-escalating property tax expenses. Conversely, opponents caution that such caps may unjustly shift financial responsibilities onto new homeowners, renters, and other property holders.

Georgia stands among eight states where voters are assessing property tax regulations, mirroring rising tax concerns influencing politics across the country. A report from the Georgia Department of Revenue highlights that the total assessed value of property in Georgia surged by nearly 39% from 2018 to 2022, leading many local governments to benefit from increased revenues without raising tax rates, thereby augmenting employee compensation and other budgeting.

Legislators initiated the amendment following dissatisfaction expressed by constituents regarding soaring tax bills. This protective measure would remain valid for as long as homeowners retain ownership of their property, with the assessed value resetting to market rates upon sale and subsequent benefits for new homeowners under the cap.

Numerous counties, cities, and school systems in Georgia currently implement local assessment caps. However, educational institutions have voiced concerns that such caps could deplete their essential funding. As many school districts cannot exceed specific property tax rate levels, the amendment permits local governments and school districts to withdraw from the cap by March 1. Those that opt not to will be governed permanently by the cap.

Aside from presidential elections, the fiercest contests are unfolding in a select number of Georgia’s 180 state House districts, where Democrats are striving to reduce the Republicans’ existing 102-78 majority.

Notably competitive districts include six in the northern suburbs of Atlanta, situated in Fulton and Gwinnett counties. Both parties are vying to claim three districts held by the opposition. The Democratic candidates are advocating for the repeal of Georgia’s current abortion restrictions, implementing stricter gun control measures, and broadening Medicaid access for low-income individuals. Conversely, Republicans continue to champion low taxes, support for law enforcement, and school voucher programs.