Craig Topple, ACC Commissioner-elect, District 5
Craig Topple was elected to represent Forest Heights, Homewood Hills, Moss Side, Country Club Estates and other westside neighborhoods on the ACC Commission.
Signature Issues
Serving for the greater good — Topple views the role of commissioner as one of service, saying that he would listen closely to constituents do his best to represent their views in office. “That’s our goal… the greater good. It’s not about my ego. It’s not about what I think is necessarily right, it’s about how we can serve the people who have elected us to serve,” Topple told APN.
Caring for all ages — Topple says on his website that he would act to support children, with afterschool programs, summer activities and food security, young professionals with affordable housing and seniors who are aging in place and in facilities.
Experience
Topple is a chaplain working at Saint Mary’s hospital, primarily in long-term senior care. He is active in the Association of Professional Chaplains, the Interfaith Clergy Partnership of Greater Athens, the Presbytery of Northeast Georgia and the Athens YMCA. He served a five-year term on the Athens in Motion Commission, helping to prioritize funding for pedestrian and bicycle safety projects.
Endorsements
Topple has been endorsed by Mayor Kelly Girtz.
Political Affiliation
Topple takes Democratic primary ballots exclusively.
Inferred Party: Democrat
Interviews
Election Results
2026 Local Election
Kimberly Bennett — 35.2%
Craig Topple — 30.9%
Zander Mason — 25.1%
Rick Stanziale — 8.8%
Runoff:
Craig Topple — 54.4%
Kimberly Bennett — 45.6%
See other candidates running in the 2026 local election and primary here.