Cobb Reporter

Blake Harbin (R-Ga.), a political outsider and small businessman, says there are two types of candidates running in the GOP primary for Georgia's 6th congressional district: doers and talkers. Harbin distinguishes himself from the crowded field of candidates as the former.

As he gears up for the GOP primary for Georgia’s 6th congressional seat, Harbin said his experience sets him apart from the crowded field of nine candidates. Over the past decades, he has built and run small businesses and knows what it is like to struggle in harsh economic conditions.

“I created hundreds of jobs, and as important, I saved jobs during COVID for companies in our communities,” Harbin told the Cobb Reporter. “I want to use the experience I gained overcoming adversity and use it to tackle the obstacles in our country and put the people of our district first.”

In 2007, Harbin was involved in a boating accident that dislocated two vertebrae and damaged his spinal cord. As a result, he was left paralyzed.

“Despite these hardships, I was never going to quit,” he said. “I learned to be relentless in the face of adversity, and I am going to do the same for the people of our district in Congress.”

Harbin lives in the district and has for most of his life. He noted that because of this, he knows the issues, the people, and what it means to be involved in the local community and to bring communities together. 

“I started with very little in my life,” Harbin said. “I have been knocked down numerous times, but knew that I had to get back up and keep going. I am a product of the American dream, and I want to make sure everyone has the same opportunity.”

With a background in organizations like the American Legion, spearheading initiatives with farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic and hosting the United States Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” annual drive to help children in need, Harbin has a passion for serving his community. Harbin’s background includes serving on the board of the Cottage School, and he is actively involved in other organizations such as the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the NRA, Ducks Unlimited, the Alzheimer’s Foundation, the Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Georgia, Sheep Dog Impact Assistance supporting veterans and the Boy Scouts of America. 

Harbin has also built small businesses in financial management and home mortgages for over 20 years, his campaign website said.

The one message he hopes to leave with his campaign is this: ”Our state. Our Future.”

“These are not just words for me,” Harbin said. “By confronting our struggles and overcoming them, we define what we can achieve. We can bring Georgia back to greatness again. Georgia can lead the fight to make our country strong again.”

Harbin plans to focus his attention on supporting parental rights to be involved with their children’s education, guarding against government overreach and securing the border, his campaign’s website said.

The GOP primary for Georgia’s 6th congressional seat will be held May 24.