Senator Jaha Howard - Contact Information

Jaha Howard is a member of the Democratic Party and currently serves in the Georgia State Senate, representing District 35. He assumed office on December 31, 2025, and his current term will conclude on January 11, 2027.

Howard was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and pursued higher education with a focus on both science and healthcare. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Howard University before completing graduate studies at the University of Illinois, Chicago. Professionally, Howard is a pediatric dentist, a career that has shaped his perspective on public health, education, and community service. His background in dentistry has also influenced his political priorities, particularly in areas related to healthcare access and child welfare.

Prior to his election to the Georgia State Senate, Howard served on the Cobb County School District Board of Education, representing District 2 from 2019 to 2022. During his tenure, he worked on issues related to educational equity, school funding, and community engagement. His service on the school board provided him with experience in governance and policymaking, as well as a platform to advocate for improvements in public education. Howard also ran for Georgia Superintendent of Schools and previously sought election to the Georgia State Senate in 2016 and 2017, though he was not successful in those earlier campaigns.

Howard entered the Georgia State Senate through a special election in December 2025, held to fill the vacancy left by Jason Esteves. After no candidate secured a majority in the initial election, Howard won the runoff on December 16, 2025, defeating former state representative Roger Bruce. He was sworn into office on December 31, 2025. His district includes portions of Cobb and Fulton counties, encompassing diverse communities within the Atlanta metropolitan area.

As a state senator, Howard has emphasized issues such as healthcare, education, and community development. His professional background as a pediatric dentist informs his advocacy for improved healthcare access, particularly for children and underserved populations. He has also expressed interest in strengthening public education systems, drawing on his experience as a school board member to promote policies that support teachers, students, and families. In addition, Howard has highlighted the importance of economic development and environmental sustainability within his district.

Howard’s political career reflects a blend of professional expertise and community involvement. His work in healthcare and education has provided him with a unique perspective on the challenges facing Georgia families, and his legislative priorities aim to address these concerns through pragmatic and inclusive policymaking. While his tenure in the Georgia State Senate is relatively recent, Howard has already established himself as a dedicated public servant with a focus on improving the lives of his constituents.

Outside of politics, Howard continues to practice pediatric dentistry and remains active in community initiatives. His dual roles as a healthcare professional and legislator underscore his commitment to service and his belief in the importance of addressing both immediate and long-term needs of Georgia residents. His career trajectory illustrates a consistent dedication to public service, combining professional expertise with a passion for civic engagement.