McDaniel is from Dekalb County and graduated from Chamblee High School. He holds a bachelor's degree in management and a master's degree in of public administration, both from the University of Phoenix. He is married to his wife, with whom they have four children. He is an ordained Elder in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and a pastor in the Trinity CME Church, in Gainesville, Georgia.

McDaniel is a U.S. Military Veteran, serving in the Army Reserve, and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. He also has experience as a Dekalb County Police Officer.

Makenzie McDaniel is a member of the Henry County School Board of Education for District 5. He was appointed to this position in 2023, and is serving his first term.