Georgia Rep. Wiedower Resigns; Vacancy Process Unclear

State Rep. Marcus Wiedower (R‑Watkinsville), who has represented District 121 since 2019, announced he is resigning from the Georgia General Assembly effective immediately to focus on his expanding role as vice president of external affairs at Hillpointe. Wiedower said his duties require travel — Hillpointe has grown from operations in one state to 13 states since he joined six years ago — making continued legislative attendance during session impractical. During his tenure he chaired the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government and served on Higher Education, Transportation, and Ways & Means committees. He said stepping down was difficult but necessary and plans to continue working on local issues such as attainable housing through the private sector; House Speaker Jon Burns praised his service. Officials said steps will be taken to fill the vacancy, but accounts conflict: CBS reported a special election could be called quickly while Fox5 reported Gov. Brian Kemp might appoint a replacement to finish the term.