From Community Roots to the Gold Dome: Dr. Jaha Howard Begins New Chapter as State Senator

ATLANTA, GA — In a moment that reflected both personal perseverance and broad community support, Dr. Jaha Howard was sworn in as Georgia’s new State Senator for District 35 on Wednesday morning, Dec. 31, before a packed Georgia Senate chamber. Family members, longtime supporters, fellow lawmakers, and local elected officials filled the storied chamber, underscoring the deep coalition that carried Howard from Southwest Atlanta roots to statewide office.

Georgia Court of Appeals Judge Trent Brown, who administered the oath, acknowledged the turnout with humor. “Atlanta turns out. I was expecting five people here today,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.

Howard, 44, now represents communities across both Cobb and Fulton counties. A pediatric dentist by profession, he grew up in Southwest Atlanta and currently lives and practices dentistry in Cobb County. His path to the Senate followed a December 16 special election runoff, where he secured 52 percent of the vote, defeating former State Rep. Roger Bruce. The race was held to fill the seat vacated by former Sen. Jason Esteves, who is now pursuing a gubernatorial bid.

Howard’s wife held the Bible as he took the oath, surrounded by his three young children and parents. A former Cobb County School Board member, Howard became visibly emotional during his remarks, reflecting on the long road that brought him to the Capitol.

“You all have been here for this decade-long journey, to be at this state capitol,” Howard told the crowd. “We have had some wins, we’ve had some losses, we’ve been kicked down, and we are still here, so amen.”

As Howard prepares to take his seat ahead of the upcoming legislative session, supporters say his swearing-in represents more than a change in representation—it signals the arrival of a lawmaker shaped by local service, resilience, and a community that never stopped showing up.