Former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill announces congressional run
Victor Hill planning to run for Congress
Former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill says he's not done with politics after his release from federal prison.
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. - Former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill says he plans to run for U.S. Congress.
Hill, who was convicted in 2022 for violating the constitutional rights of detainees by ordering them to be held in a restraint chair for hours, served time in federal prison and was released last spring. In April 2024, he lost an appeal to overturn his conviction. He is currently serving six years of probation.
RECENT STORIES
- Former Clayton County sheriff Victor Hill loses appeal in 2022 case
- Clayton County approves $5M settlement over alleged abuse in jail
- Victor Hill, former Clayton County sheriff, reportedly penned book while in prison
- Victor Hill criticizes current Clayton County sheriff
- FOX 5 I-Team: Convicted Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill files to receive retirement benefits
Victor Hill arrives in court (FILE PHOTO)
What we know:
On a special live episode of his podcast, "The Hill of Justice," the former sheriff announced that he is running for Congress, launching a Democratic primary challenge in Georgia’s 5th Congressional District.
Hill confirmed his candidacy during an online video appearance, signaling his intent to unseat incumbent Rep. Nikema Williams, who has held the seat since 2021. Williams, a longtime Democratic leader, previously chaired the Democratic Party of Georgia.
Hill’s entry into the race is likely to stir controversy. In 2022, he was convicted on federal charges of violating the civil rights of detainees in his custody and later served time in prison.
While state law prohibits a convicted felon from running for state office, it does not extend to federal offices. In addition, there is no federal law preventing a run by someone convicted of a felony.
What they're saying:
The development has drawn a range of reactions in Jonesboro.
"That's great," one woman said when asked about the possibility of Hill running for office.
Resident Kurt Seiler expressed caution, saying, "I would hear his platform but I wouldn't be inclined to vote for him right away. I don't rule anyone out until I hear what they have to say."
Another resident, Aso Odus, voiced strong support. "He's a very active and fearless person. That's what I love so much about him."
Big picture view:
The 5th District, which includes much of Atlanta, has long been a Democratic stronghold.
Hill’s challenge sets the stage for a potentially contentious primary battle heading into the next election cycle.
Currently, the seat is held by Rep. Nikema Williams.
Dig deeper:
Hill, who first became Clayton County Sheriff in 2005, served multiple terms but has long been a controversial figure. In 2022, he was convicted on federal civil rights charges related to mistreatment of jail detainees and served prison time.
Despite his legal history, Hill maintains a loyal base of supporters and name recognition that could help him mount a challenge.
"When you talk to Clayton County residents, there’s mixed reactions about Victor Hill," said Tharon Johnson, a Democratic political strategist with Paramount Consulting Group. "A lot of them respect him. A lot of them think that he did a phenomenal job as sheriff and as state rep when he was there. But also, some folks think that he was a distraction and there was some controversy surrounding him. It'll be very interesting for him to articulate to the public why he wants to now reenter political life as a congressional candidate."
What's next:
Hill has not yet formally filed paperwork to enter the race.