Steven SainzServing

Steven Sainz

State HouseRepublican

GA-HD-180 State House

Age 31·Costa Rican and Cuban-American·Chairman, Special Rules Committee

Why This Race Matters

Sainz is one of only three Hispanic Republicans in the Georgia General Assembly and a founding member of Georgia's first Hispanic Legislative Caucus since 2003. His current term ends January 2027, so he will be up for re-election in November 2026. He won his 2024 primary runoff by only 52.4% against Glenn Cook, signaling a competitive race ahead.

HD-180 covers Camden County and south Glynn County in coastal Georgia. Sainz defeated controversial incumbent Jason Spencer in the 2018 Republican primary after Spencer's appearance on Sacha Baron Cohen's "Who Is America?" Sainz was re-elected in 2020, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, he faced a competitive general election against Democrat Defonsio Daniels.

Key dates to watch: General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Born in Costa Rica to a Costa Rican mother and Cuban-American father, Steven Sainz is one of three Hispanic Republicans in the Georgia General Assembly. At 23, he launched his campaign and defeated controversial incumbent Jason Spencer in the 2018 GOP primary. He has authored landmark public safety legislation, including Mariam's Law, and was named Greater Georgia's Legislator of the Year in 2024.

Family & Heritage

Born in Costa Rica to a Costa Rican mother and Cuban-American father. Immigrated to the United States and was raised in Camden County, Georgia. Product of Camden County public schools.

Political Career

Before Politics

Managing Principal/CEO, Camden Connection (community development nonprofit); Deputy Sheriff, Camden County Sheriff's Office; Planning Commission Chairman, City of Woodbine; Board Member, Camden County Chamber of Commerce

Education

B.A. in Political Science/Public Administration, Valdosta State University (Cum Laude); M.B.A. with International Business Concentration, Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business (2021)

Key Issues & Priorities

*Public safety and criminal justice reform
*Support for military veterans and retirees
*Tax relief and economic development
*Second Amendment rights
*Community development

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