Tuesday, March 5, 2024–10:36 a.m.

-John Bailey, Rome News-Tribune-

This story is possible because of a news-sharing agreement with the Rome News-Tribune. More information can be found at northwestgeorgianews.com.

Mike Burnes, who currently serves on Rome’s tourism and parks and recreation boards, qualified to run for Floyd County Commission post two on Tuesday.

Wright Bagby, who holds that elected office, also announced Tuesday that he will not run for re-election. Referring to his belief in term limits, Bagby said he has served two terms on the county commission — like he did on the Rome City Commission — and said that he would not run again. 

Burnes told the Rome News-Tribune Tuesday that he’s ready to serve his community. A retired U.S. Navy captain, Burnes later retired as the controller of the Tyson Foods plant in Rome. He’s a native of Rome and a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and has furthered that role by serving on the military academy selection boards. 

Qualifying continues through Friday this week. Candidates for the judicial seats, Congress, Georgia General Assembly, and district attorney will qualify in Atlanta. Qualifying for all of the local offices will be through their party in Rome.

The Floyd County Republican Party is qualifying candidates at the Law Offices of David Guldenschuh, 512 E. First St. The Floyd County Democratic Party is qualifying candidates at the Salter Law Firm, 501 E. First St. 

The nonpartisan judicial seats will be decided in the May 21 primary. That primary will also determine who will represent the Republican and Democratic parties on the Nov. 5 ballot.

You can see a list of those who have qualified here.