STOCKBRIDGE, GA — Duro Haynes, current Chair of the Henry County Democratic Party and former senior congressional staffer, officially launched his campaign for State Senate District 17 today. Haynes is a lifelong Henry County resident, nonprofit leader, and longtime community organizer with deep roots in the district.  

“District 17 deserves leadership that actually fights for the people who live here,” said Haynes. “For decades, families across Clayton and Henry Counties have dealt with disinvestment and neglect. That didn’t start under Donald Trump. It began long before that and it's past time we had a State Senator who understands that history and is ready to change it.”

Haynes has spent more than a decade in public service. At just 22 years old, Haynes was elected Chair of the Henry County Democratic Party, where he has now served for 4 years. Under Haynes’ leadership, Henry County experienced historic Democratic gains during the 2024 election cycle, becoming one of the fastest-shifting counties toward Democrats in the state. During that cycle, local Democrats secured seven seat flips, defeating Republican incumbents.

In addition to his party leadership, Haynes has served as a senior congressional staffer on Capitol Hill and currently leads a nonprofit focused on community advocacy and civic engagement.

State Senate District 17 includes parts of Clayton County and Henry County. The district is currently represented by 76-year-old incumbent Senator Gail Davenport, who is seeking a tenth term.

Early voting begins April 27, 2026. The Democratic Primary Election will be held on May 19, 2026.