Q&A with Edward D. Harbison, candidate for District 15 seat in Georgia Senate
Editor’s note: This is one of the Ledger-Enquirer Q&As with candidates running in the Georgia Senate District 15 Democratic primary. Early voting for the Georgia primary begins April 27, and election day is May 19.
Georgia state Sen. Ed Harbison (D-Columbus) announced last month he isn’t seeking reelection to the District 15 seat. His son, public policy specialist Edward D. Harbison, state Rep. Teddy Reese (D-Columbus) of Georgia House District 140 and community organizer Alyssa Nia Williams are running in the Democratic primary for the District 15 seat. Only one Republican candidate is running for that seat: Charles Herbert Hand III.
District 15 comprises most of Muscogee County and all of six other counties: Chattahoochee, Macon, Marion, Schley, Talbot and Taylor.
Here is the Ledger-Enquirer’s emailed interview with Harbison:
Why are you running for this position?
“Public service has always been central to my life. For more than two decades, I’ve worked across Georgia helping families access the resources they need to build stability and long-term success.
“Through that work, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges facing working families, veterans and small-business owners.
“I’m running for the Georgia State Senate to continue that service — focusing on practical solutions that expand opportunity, strengthen communities and deliver real results for District 15.”
Why should District 15 residents vote for you?
“I bring a combination of real-world experience, public service and a results-driven approach to leadership. For more than 20 years, I’ve worked in public policy and community outreach, helping connect families across Georgia with critical resources.
“As a United States Air Force veteran, I understand service, accountability and commitment.
“My focus is not on politics but on people — ensuring families have access to healthcare, veterans receive the support they’ve earned and communities have the resources they need to grow and thrive.”
What is the most significant problem you want to address, and what will be your solution if elected?
“One of the most significant challenges facing District 15 is access — access to healthcare, economic opportunity and the infrastructure that supports strong communities.
“My approach is focused on practical, results-driven solutions: expanding healthcare access, investing in infrastructure, supporting small businesses and strengthening workforce development.
“I will also prioritize support for veterans and invest in our agricultural communities, which are critical to our regional economy. If elected, I will work to bring together public, private and community partners to deliver solutions that are sustainable and focused on long-term impact.”
What is your occupational and educational background?
“I am a public policy specialist with more than two decades of experience working in strategic planning and community outreach across the State of Georgia, including service with the Georgia Department of Human Services.
“I currently serve as a human resources administrator with Harbison Covenant Healthcare Institute, where I support workforce development and organizational operations.
“I am also a United States Air Force veteran, having served in aeromedical evacuation, supporting critical missions under demanding conditions. I attended Tuskegee University and have dedicated my career to public service, focusing on healthcare access, economic stability and community development.”
What is your community involvement and history of leadership roles?
“My career has been rooted in community engagement and leadership.
“Through my work with the Georgia Department of Human Services, I have helped lead outreach initiatives that connect families across Georgia with essential services. I have worked alongside public agencies, nonprofit organizations and community partners to expand access to resources and strengthen communities.
“I have also supported voter registration and community outreach efforts at the local level. I am a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., where service and leadership are core values.
“My work has been recognized with the Governor’s Public Service Award for Strategic Community Outreach and the Georgia Department of Human Services Impact Award.”
What else should the L-E’s readers know about your campaign?
“This campaign is focused on people, not politics.
“My guiding belief is simple: stronger families lead to stronger communities and a stronger Georgia. I am committed to being a present, accountable and results-focused leader who listens and delivers.
“This campaign is about showing up, doing the work and delivering real results that expand opportunity for every family in District 15.”
