Kandiss Taylor is a Republican political figure from Georgia known for her controversial and outspoken positions. She is currently running for the U.S. House of Representatives in Georgia’s 1st Congressional District in the 2026 elections. Taylor previously served as the chair of the Georgia Republican Party’s 1st District.
Born in Baxley, Georgia, Taylor has a background in education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a Master of Education in School Counseling, and an Education Specialist degree in School Counseling, all from Georgia Southern University. Additionally, she earned a Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision from Regent University . Taylor has worked as a counselor and educator with the Appling County Board of Education since 2003.
Taylor’s political career includes several high-profile campaigns. In 2020, she ran as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate seat in Georgia . In 2022, she campaigned for governor of Georgia under the slogan “Jesus, Guns, and Babies,” emphasizing conservative values. Although she secured only 3.4% of the vote in the Republican primary, she did not concede, alleging without evidence that the election had been marred by widespread cheating.
Taylor announced her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in Georgia’s 1st Congressional District in 2026. She aims to challenge incumbent Republican Rep. Buddy Carter, who announced his bid for the U.S. Senate in 2026 . Taylor’s campaign is characterized by her strong support for conservative values, including opposition to illegal immigration and advocacy for government efficiency.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Kandiss Sharpe Miles was born in 1980 in Baxley, a city in Appling County, Georgia. Raised in a hardworking and supportive family, she developed a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for her rural upbringing. Her father passed away in 2018, a loss that she has publicly acknowledged in her personal reflections.
Academic Pursuits
Taylor’s educational journey reflects her dedication to service and personal development. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University, followed by a Master of Education in School Counseling. Furthering her commitment to education, she obtained an Education Specialist degree in School Counseling and a Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision from Regent University .
Professional Career
Counseling and Education
Since 2003, Taylor has served as a counselor and educator with the Appling County Board of Education. Her role involves guiding students through academic and personal challenges, reflecting her commitment to nurturing the next generation .
Political Involvement
Taylor’s entry into politics began with her election as the chair of the Georgia Republican Party’s 1st District. Her leadership in this role has positioned her as a significant figure within the state’s Republican circles.
Political Campaigns
2020 U.S. Senate Race
In 2020, Taylor ran for the U.S. Senate seat representing Georgia. Although she did not win, her campaign helped raise her profile within the party and set the stage for future political endeavors .
2022 Gubernatorial Election
Taylor’s 2022 gubernatorial campaign was marked by her slogan “Jesus, Guns, and Babies,” emphasizing her conservative values. Despite securing only 3.4% of the vote in the Republican primary, she did not concede, alleging without evidence that the election had been marred by widespread cheating .
2026 Congressional Campaign
In February 2025, Taylor announced her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in Georgia’s 1st Congressional District. She aims to challenge incumbent Republican Rep. Buddy Carter, who announced his bid for the U.S. Senate in 2026 .
Controversial Statements
Taylor has faced criticism for making inflammatory and unfounded statements. In July 2025, she claimed that the deadly flash floods in Texas were “fake,” attributing the disaster to alleged weather manipulation methods such as cloud seeding and geoengineering. Her comments provoked widespread backlash from political leaders and commentators, accusing her of insensitivity and spreading harmful conspiracy theories .
Personal Life
Family
Taylor is married to Ryan Taylor, and they have three children. The family resides in Baxley, Georgia, where Taylor continues her work in education and her involvement in local politics .
Beliefs and Values
A devout Christian, Taylor’s faith plays a central role in her political ideology. She advocates for policies that align with her religious convictions, including opposition to abortion and support for Second Amendment rights. Her slogan “Jesus, Guns, and Babies” encapsulates her commitment to these values.
Net Worth
As of 2025, specific details regarding Kandiss Taylor’s net worth are not publicly available. Her financial disclosures during her political campaigns have not provided comprehensive information on her personal wealth.
Conclusion
Kandiss Taylor’s political journey reflects her unwavering commitment to conservative principles and her desire to serve the people of Georgia. Through her various campaigns and roles, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape. As she prepares for the 2026 congressional election, her influence and dedication to her beliefs continue to shape her public persona.
FAQs
What is Kandiss Taylor’s educational background?
Taylor holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a Master of Education in School Counseling, an Education Specialist degree in School Counseling, and a Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision.
When did Kandiss Taylor announce her congressional candidacy?
She announced her candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives in Georgia’s 1st Congressional District in February 2025.
What was Taylor’s slogan during her 2022 gubernatorial campaign?
Her campaign slogan was “Jesus, Guns, and Babies,” reflecting her conservative values.
Has Taylor faced any controversies?
Yes, she faced backlash in 2025 for claiming that the deadly flash floods in Texas were “fake,” attributing the disaster to alleged weather manipulation methods.
How many children does Kandiss Taylor have?
She has three children.
What is Taylor’s stance on immigration?
She advocates for enforcing immigration laws and opposes sanctuary cities, emphasizing the need to protect Georgia’s safety.
Has Taylor held any leadership positions in the Republican Party?
Yes, she currently serves as the chair of the Georgia Republican Party’s 1st District.
Where does Taylor reside?
She resides in Baxley, Georgia, with her family.
