As voters in part of Effingham and Chatham counties head to the polls today to determine the next person to hold the state House District 159 seat, its two contestants are upbeat about their chances.

Ann Purcell, a former longtime state legislator, and newcomer Jesse Tyler are vying for the post, which is open after Buddy Carter stepped down to seek the vacated state Senate seat of Eric Johnson.

It’s been five years since Purcell has been on the stump looking for votes, but she said she’s enjoyed her time meeting the district’s constituents.

“It’s been nice to get back out these last 40 days,” she said Monday morning. “It’s been a way to meet the newcomers and to reconnect with old friends. I’m excited about the opportunity to run and to let the voters choose me to be their voice in the Georgia House.”

Tyler, a former field representative for ex-Congressman Max Burns, isn’t dismayed by going up against a veteran candidate. He estimated that Purcell has outspent him 30 to 1 in the campaign.

“I’m cautiously optimistic,” he said Monday afternoon. “I’ve got a lot of people knocking on doors. I feel good. I know people are ready for a change on the national level, so we’ll see.”

Purcell has been an at-large member of the state Technical College System board and has stressed education during her campaign. She also has been pushing for the Effingham Parkway and for continued economic development of west Chatham and Effingham.

“It’s the same issue-related items that are important to our citizens,” she said. “I have kept my focus on the issues I have brought forth. We have not let up any. It hasn’t been any different. We have not taken this election lightly.”

Though Georgia Right to Life endorsed Tyler, Purcell also has touted her pro-life stance. She said she opposes abortion but believes consideration must be given in cases of rape or incest.