GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The mayor of a city in northeast Georgia has expressed his intention to run against U.S. Representative Andrew Clyde in the upcoming Republican primary set for 2026. This move comes as tensions rise among business leaders who are growing increasingly dissatisfied with Clyde’s extremely conservative stance in representing Georgia’s 9th Congressional District.
Gainesville Mayor Sam Couvillon made the announcement on Tuesday, presenting himself as a candidate dedicated to “delivering real results.” His timing may align well with some voters looking for a shift in leadership in the district, particularly those frustrated with the current representative’s approach.
Clyde’s upcoming challenge is notable as he becomes the second incumbent in Georgia to face a primary challenger. Democratic State Senator Emanuel Jones has also declared his intention to run for his party’s nomination for the 13th District, which includes Atlanta’s southern and eastern suburbs, currently occupied by U.S. Representative David Scott.
Having served as Gainesville’s mayor since 2022 and on the City Council from 2013 to 2021, Couvillon is familiar with local governance. Though the city operates under a weak mayor system, where day-to-day functions are managed by a city manager, Couvillon took credit for the city’s robust financial health and its success in attracting business investments.
The mayor, who is also an insurance executive, has expressed unwavering support for former President Donald Trump while carefully not addressing Clyde directly in his campaign message. He stated, “While most politicians are more concerned with making a point than getting things done, I’ll be ready on Day 1 to support President Trump’s agenda, secure our southern border, tackle inflation and the rising cost of living, and stand with our farmers and small businesses.”
Clyde secured his congressional seat in 2020, succeeding Doug Collins. He won his position after a competitive runoff that followed a crowded nine-way primary, swiftly winning in a district known for its strong Republican leanings. Since then, he has faced little notable competition in his tenure.
However, his time in office has not been without controversy, particularly among fiscally-minded conservatives. Clyde’s hesitance to endorse House Speaker Mike Johnson in January and his role in the removal of Speaker Kevin McCarthy in 2023 have contributed to some strained relations.
Clyde has also opposed various debt and spending initiatives, including a version of legislation that ultimately passed, which provided emergency assistance to Hurricane Helene victims and additional support for farmers.
In Congress, Clyde has gained attention primarily for his strong opposition to gun control legislation and for resisting House regulations, such as the implementation of metal detectors. He notably minimized the events of January 6, 2021, claiming there were merely “some rioters” among the crowd and dismissing the term “insurrection” as misleading, likening the event to a “normal tourist visit.”
