Retired brigadier general Shawn Harris, a Democrat, recently waged an underfunded but nevertheless remarkable challenge in Georgia’s overwhelmingly Republican 14th district. He received about 135,000 votes in the Republican primary against Donald Trump in 2024. Although he ultimately lost the race to incumbent Marjorie Taylor Greene, his vote count marked a record high for the district, surpassing former President Donald Trump’s numbers by three points. Harris has quickly become a key player in the region thanks to his record approach. Today, however, he is aggressively thinking about what his next steps would be in the political landscape.
Harris’s military background is extensive. As a general officer, he commanded combat troops in Afghanistan, Liberia and elsewhere. His last posting was as a military attaché in Israel. This experience uniquely qualifies his candidacy and further highlights his passion for public service. In addition, Harris has purchased a cattle and horse ranch on Georgia’s 14th district—which he considers a long-term project. His commitment to production agriculture is clear since he has produced beef cattle in parallel to his work for most of his adult life.
Even in defeat, Harris is sanguine about the prospects for future Democrats in Georgia’s deeply conservative north-western hill country. He views this field as a battlefield ready for activist organizing. He noted, “I don’t care who it is, but when we do our analysis – because Marjorie Taylor Greene was so far out there – we don’t see the Republican party, Donald Trump or the local Republican party getting somebody that’s closer to the center.”
At these rallies, Harris has demonstrated a true dedication to serving his community by collecting cans goods for local food banks. His focus on advancing the needs of working families is consistent with his determination that the present economic climate is Armageddon. “We’re definitely in an agriculture recession, no ifs, ands or buts about it. I don’t know what things are going to look like next year,” he stated.
He expressed concern over rising living costs, emphasizing that middle-class families are facing challenges in their daily lives. I know President Trump was just out in Pennsylvania trying to convince people that it is a hoax, but believe me, people know things cost more now. People know that. And you don’t need me to tell you that, you just know it, you can feel it from coast to coast. As Harris pointed out, it is middle-class families that are suffering from high bills, unable even to afford keeping the lights on and food on the table. On top of that, they’re worried about how they’ll afford their rent or mortgage.
Harris’s criticism extends to Congress as well. He thinks lawmakers should focus on the economic concerns that deeply affect constituents. “Right now, Congress is not doing their job. Period,” he asserted. His faith-based views on national and local issues only make him more determined to stay an engaged voter and advocate.
As Harris contemplates another run for office, he recognizes the challenges ahead but maintains a clear vision for the future. His investment in both his ranch and community initiatives serves as a testament to his long-term commitment to Georgia’s 14th district.
“What we doing here on this farm, we are never leaving. Marjorie Taylor Greene could never say that. You can sell a house tomorrow, but when you invest in a farm and are putting up fences and all this kind of stuff, you are here for the long haul.” – Shawn Harris