A fifth candidate has joined a growing field for the Nov. 8 special election to fill the District 25 seat in the Georgia House of Representatives.

Emory Dunahoo Jr., a businessman from Oakwood, says he will seek the seat being vacated by James Mills, who was appointed to the state Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Dunahoo was a part owner in K&D Transportation for 25 years. He is currently semi-retired and employed by Robinson and Harrison Poultry.

“I feel that our government needs to be less intrusive in our lives while being pro small business and get people back to work again,” Dunahoo said in a news release emailed to The Times. “As a successful businessman, I believe I can help make changes that our government needs to make to improve our current economical situation.”

Dunahoo joins five other candidates who have announced their intention to run: Todd Reed, also an Oakwood businessman;  Gainesville lawyer Sonny Sykes; former Hall County Commissioner Bobby Banks; and Flowery Branch City Councilman Kris Yardley.

Candidates must qualify for the special election with the Secretary of State’s office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday. 

No party primaries will be held, though party affiliation will be listed on the ballot. A runoff, if needed, would be held Dec. 6.

Voters must be registered by Oct. 11 vote Nov. 8.