Incumbent Gerald Dawson wins sixth term in Beaufort County Dist. 1 council race by 17% points

Democratic incumbent Gerald Dawson won reelection in Beaufort County’s District 1, defeating Republican challenger Adam Biery and a write-in candidate.



With all 14 precincts counted by 9:58 p.m., Dawson won 3,606 votes or 57.8% of the unofficial tally. This victory marks Dawson’s sixth term representing Burton and other northern Beaufort County communities.

Biery received 40.2% with 2,508 votes. A write-in candidate received the remaining 1.9%

Dawson, the longest-serving council member, has focused on economic development throughout his tenure. He helped establish the Economic Development Corporation board and hired an economic development director to promote job growth. His primary goal has been to bring “meaningful” and “well-paying” jobs to Beaufort County.

This story was originally published November 5, 2024 at 10:40 PM.

Isabella Douglas

The Island Packet

Isabella Douglas is the accountability reporter for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette. A graduate of the University of Florida, she has spent time reporting for The Independent Florida Alligator, Fresh Take Florida and New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Neighborhood News. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a concentration in criminology.