About | Ga State Senate 2026

Meet Barbara

Barbara Gooby is a passionate advocate dedicated to serving the community as a candidate for Georgia State Senate District 1 in 2026. With a strong background in public service and grassroots advocacy, Barbara understands the issues that matter most to you. She believes in transparency and open communication, providing a platform for feedback and engagement. Barbara is committed to addressing the needs of the community by ensuring that every voice is heard. Together, we can build a brighter future for every resident of Georgia's Senate District 1.

Barbara has lived in Savannah, Georgia since 2005. Recently retired, she worked 30+ years as an administrative/executive assistant in institutions of higher education (Univ. of North Carolina, NC School of Science & Math, Georgia Southern), giving her expertise in problem solving, project management, and connecting people with resources.

She has also worked as a realtor, legal assistant, and temp, so she also understands the needs of small businesses.

Bachelor's degree: Vassar College, Political Science major

J.D. (law degree): University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

M.A. in Mental Health Counseling: South University

Poll worker/poll manager since 2016

Member & Team Leader, Justice Unites Savannah Together (JUST) since 2021

Stephen Minister (Asbury Memorial Church) since 2021

Board member & President of several arts organizations since 1995

Member, League of Women Voters of Coastal Georgia

Fun fact: I lost on Jeopardy! (came in 2nd, air date 9/18/2018)

Issues affecting Georgia's State Senate District 1

Infrastructure

Eliminate corporate ownership of water rights
Address climate change, especially need for clean water and air
Address flooding issues throughout District 1
Plan better and earlier for traffic/roadway issues
Increase access to public transportation in dense population areas

Expanded voting rights

Eliminate voting restrictions for the elderly, unhoused, and poor citizens
Implement fair redistricting so everyone's vote counts equally
Extend options and time for early voting

Workers' rights

Increase minimum wage
Ensure workplace safety (following US Dept. of Labor reduction in safety rules)
Improve environmental health for workers and our families
Require corporate responsibility to employees (healthcare, job training, long-term commitment to the community)
Increase availability of training and apprenticeships in the trades