RUSS BYNUM
Associated Press

STATESBORO, Ga. (AP) — Baxley farmer Randy Branch and Grovetown Mayor George James have two things in common — they’re both Republicans who say they plan to cross party lines to vote for their Democratic congressman, Rep. John Barrow.

After 10 years in Congress, Barrow of Augusta will be out of a job if he can’t sway a healthy share of Republican voters in the Nov. 4 election. His 12th District in eastern Georgia was redrawn after the last census to give Republicans a big advantage.

Augusta construction company owner Rick Allen is the congressman’s Republican challenger. He says Congress’ low approval with voters will hurt Barrow.

James says Barrow won his vote because he’s “proven himself” by helping Grovetown build a water treatment plant and by making his staff available to assist residents.

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