First candidate announces intention to seek House District 139 seat vacated by Richard Smith’s death

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — A week after the unexpected death of Georgia State Rep. Richard Smith, the push to fill House seat 139 has begun.

A Columbus businessman is the first to announce he will seek the seat. Sean Knox, co-owner of Knox Pest Control Company, has said he will seek the seat.

Gov. Brian Kemp must call for a special election to fill the vacancy. According to Georgia code, the governor has 10 days from the time the vacancy occurred to call for the special election.

Smith died on Jan. 30. The governor’s office has until the end of this week to call for the election. That election has to happen within 60 days of the time its called.

District 139 represents a large chunk of north Columbus and piece of southern Harris County.

Knox said he would like to continue the legacy of Smith, who spent 20 years in the General Assembly and rose in prominence and influence. Smith was the chairman of the powerful House Rules Committee.

“I am profoundly saddened by the loss of my friend Richard Smith, whose unwavering commitment to conservative ideals and tireless advocacy for our community set a standard for public service,” Knox said in a prepared statement. “In his memory, I am stepping forward to ensure that our conservative values are upheld in the State House and that the needs of our constituents are heard and addressed.”

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