Gwinnett's Gen Z state Rep. Akbar Ali reflects on his first legislative session, Georgia election battles ahead

Akbar Ali stands in the state House chamber, talking to another person
Newly elected state Rep. Akbar Ali on the first day of the 2026 legislative session on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

Georgia lawmakers are clearing out their desks after the final gavel rang out on Sine Die, the last day of this year’s legislative session.

But their work is far from over, as politicians refocus on the upcoming midterm elections.

Democratic state Rep. Akbar Ali met WABE’s Lily Oppenheimer on the Georgia Capitol steps to reflect on his first session under the Gold Dome and the campaign battles ahead.