By John Brice
Correspondent
Voter turnout reached record levels in Chambers County for Election Day 2024 with a benchmark 53.37% of registered voters heading to the polls on this past Tuesday, November 5th. Presidential politics surely played a key role in the widespread civic engagement, however, there were two local races that certainly inspired many residents to make their voices heard loud and clear. All eyes were on the riveting race for Chambers County School District Superintendent where Republican candidate Dr. Sharon Weldon claimed victory with a decisive 10,007 votes for a 71.05% share over Democrat Winford Lee Ashmore who received 3,976 votes for a 28.23% share.
In the closely watched race for Chambers County Board of Education District One, Democrat candidate Frederick “Reco” Newton claimed victory with a robust 934 votes for a 54.94% share over Republican Carolyn Danyel Peters who received 765 for a 45.00% share.
On the eve of election day, Dr. Weldon shared a message with supporters through a post to her campaign Facebook page which remarked “Good evening, Chambers County! Tomorrow is THE DAY! Remember to exercise your right to vote and remember that you’ll be able to vote for Republicans, Democrats, and/or Independents in this election. I’ve been asked where I’d be tomorrow so I thought I’d let you know. I’ll be with my students until the end of the school day and then I’ll head to my polling place to vote. Tomorrow evening I plan to be at the courthouse. I’ve worked very hard the past 12 months to meet people and get my message out there. I hope that that hard work conveys my message and beliefs to you and guides you in your voting. I invite you to join me in voting for me, Sharon Weldon, for Superintendent of Chambers County Schools.”
Succinct in a follow up post after her election day victory, Weldon noted “Thank you all so much! I’m proud and humble! Let’s move forward together! We have much to do!”
Newton shared a message with supporters as well through his official campaign Facebook page in a post on election day evening, commenting “Chambers County, the votes have poured in and we are excited to begin our work and efforts as YOUR voice for District 1. I could not have accomplished this without the unwavering support of my family, friends and community. It is not lost on me that you have bestowed upon and entrusted me to make sure the people of District 1, not my, voice be heard in the Chambers County Board. I truly look forward to your holding me accountable for doing just that. As always, our goal is to push the board to invest in the continued growth and betterment of our students.”
