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Derrick Jackson Launches Campaign for Georgia Governor

Supporters at a campaign rally for Derrick Jackson in Georgia

News Summary

Georgia state Representative Derrick Jackson has announced his candidacy for governor, aiming to become the first Black governor of Georgia. With a focus on increasing healthcare access and economic opportunities, Jackson’s campaign is expected to ignite a competitive Democratic primary against notable candidates. Jackson’s military background and commitment to addressing policy injustices drive his bid, particularly in light of potential historic shifts in the governor’s office. As the 2026 election nears, the race is set against a backdrop of changing political dynamics and challenges from both parties.

Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia state Representative Derrick Jackson has officially announced his candidacy for governor, setting the stage for a heated Democratic primary in a race where the potential for the first Black governor of Georgia is on the table. Jackson’s announcement came on a Tuesday in early June 2025, with a formal campaign launch planned for Friday.

Jackson, a U.S. Navy veteran with 22 years of military service, has been serving in the Georgia House since his election in 2016. Prior to his political career, he garnered experience as a marketing executive at General Electric. His campaign is built on the slogan of “putting Georgia families first,” focusing on increasing access to healthcare and enhancing economic opportunities, especially in rural areas.

With a vision to transform Georgia’s reputation, Jackson aims to shift the state’s standing from “the number one state to do business” to “the number one place to work, to play, to have a family and for young professionals.” His platform includes advocating for stricter gun regulations and the repeal of Georgia’s abortion law that currently limits abortions to approximately six weeks of pregnancy.

Jackson enters a competitive field of Democratic candidates, which includes former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Senator Jason Esteves, and pastor Olu Brown. The Democratic primary is particularly notable as it is a chance for historical change; if elected, Bottoms would become the nation’s first Black female governor, while Jackson has the ambition of being the first Black governor of Georgia.

The upcoming gubernatorial race is particularly open due to the term limit of current Republican Governor Brian Kemp, who is unable to run for a third term. Interest in the Democratic ticket is heightened as Stacey Abrams, who previously contested against Kemp, has not ruled out another run. Jackson has previously participated in statewide races, finishing sixth in the 2022 Democratic primary for lieutenant governor and emerging as a key figure with his recent re-election to the House in 2023 following the passing of state Representative Tish Naghise. Although he faced setbacks, including a loss in the bid for House minority leader in 2024, Jackson’s decision to run is propelled by a sense of “moral obligation” derived from the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis to address injustices in policies.

Jackson has also taken stances against former President Donald Trump’s policies, particularly criticizing his immigration approach and proposed Medicaid cuts, which he argues are detrimental to families. Political dynamics continue to shift as the field forms, with U.S. Representative Lucy McBath and former state Senator Jason Carter deciding against running for governor citing personal family health issues.

On the Republican side, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr has emerged as the first notable candidate for the GOP nomination, while rumors circulate about possible challengers such as Lt. Governor Burt Jones and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. The race will unfold against a backdrop of both candidate competition and party struggles as the state prepares for the 2026 elections.

The upcoming gubernatorial election is slated for November 3, 2026, creating a critical deadline for candidates to cement their positions and secure support as Georgia approaches a significant political turning point.