ATLANTA (AP) - Sara Doyle has claimed a victory over Mike Sheffield in her bid for an open seat on the Georgia Court of Appeals. Doyle carved out a narrow lead over Sheffield, grabbing 52 percent of the vote.

Republican Lauren ``Bubba'' McDonald reclaimed a seat on the
Public Service Commission by fending off a spirited challenge from
Jim Powell, striking a blow to Democrats seeking a foothold on the
five-member panel.

McDonald, a former state legislator who served on the commission for four years, stressed his experience in public office and private business throughout the campaign. Powell vowed to be an
independent voice for Georgia consumers.

With 95 percent of precincts reporting, McDonald held a comfortable lead over Powell with 57 percent of the vote.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)