Scrappy, determined, and resilient are just a few words that describe Karen Handel, Republican candidate for Georgia’s 6th congressional district. Karen credits these qualities, along with her faith, in helping her navigate the ups and downs of life and achieve success in business and in public service.

At 17, Karen fled an abusive home. She found a way to finish high school and graduate with her class. But college dreams would have to wait, as real-life demands of a job became her priority. Karen was determined to make the most of herself and her life.

Karen’s hard work and determination have led her to key positions in the private and public sectors. She worked with several major global companies, eventually becoming the CEO of the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, one of Georgia’s largest chambers. Her leadership skills were tested early on because the chamber was nearly bankrupt. Karen led the organization back to solvency and out of debt, while helping to create tens of thousands of jobs in North Fulton.

In spite of her achievements in the business world, Karen felt a higher calling – she wanted to serve her community and her country in elected office. After serving as deputy of chief of staff to Governor Sonny Perdue, Karen was elected chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, the first woman to hold the office. Displaying her sharp financial experience, Karen turned a $100 million deficit into a balanced budget without raising taxes.

The people of Georgia elected Karen as their 26th Secretary of State in 2006. She was the first elected Republican secretary of state in Georgia history. In 2017, Karen won an 18-way special election for Georgia’s 6th Congressional District. She was sworn-in as Georgia’s first Republican woman ever elected to Congress. She lost reelection in 2018 by a narrow margin in a three-way race. Karen is determined to take back Georgia’s 6th congressional seat in 2020.

To learn more about Karen's campaign, visit her website or her Facebook page.