Georgia Democrats are seeking to make a statewide election of two utility regulators a referendum on rising electricity bills. Republicans, warning Democrats could steal rare wins in the races for the Public Service Commission,

Early voting begins today across Georgia for the Nov. 4 municipal elections, marking the start of the final stretch before Election Day.

The state Public Service Commission sets Georgia Power rates, among other oversight responsibilities. Two of its five seats are up for grabs in November.

Early voting for the November 4 general election started Tuesday morning in Georgia. Voters across the state are electing mayors and city council members and, in some counties, deciding local measures and referendums.

When Georgia’s State Election Board considered a proposal to recommend that state lawmakers ban no-excuse absentee voting early last year, the Republican-dominated body shot it down, with then-newly appointed Chair John Fervier casting the deciding vote.

The special election for the Georgia Public Service Commission seats has Republicans concerned about turnout, fearing local elections could favor Democrats.

To many voters, the Public Service Commission is a mystery, but rising power bills show just how important it is.

Voters will be electing mayors and council members in cities across Georgia. There is also a statewide special election for two seats on the Public Service Commission, which regulates energy and utility rates like your power bill.

Former Democratic Public Service Commission candidate Patty Durand has been arrested and charged with stealing Georgia Power trade secrets, GPB reports

Early voting starts in Georgia for municipal elections, including pivotal Public Service Commission races, with ballot casting options before the Nov. 4 election day.