Atlanta, Georgia, July 31, 2025
News Summary
As Governor Brian Kemp steps down, six candidates have announced their run for the gubernatorial position in Georgia. The diverse group includes both Republican and Democratic contenders, each presenting their platforms with a focus on education, healthcare, and economic reform. Key players include the current Attorney General, former Atlanta Mayor, and other notable figures aiming to shape the state’s future in the 2026 election.
Atlanta, Georgia – The race to succeed Governor Brian Kemp is shaping up as six candidates enter the gubernatorial contest for the election on November 3, 2026. With Kemp unable to run for a third term, both Republican and Democratic contenders have announced their intent to lead the state.
The candidates currently in the race are:
- Chris Carr (Republican) – Current Georgia Attorney General since 2016. Carr has initiated several specialized units including the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, Gang Prosecution Unit, and Organized Retail Crime Unit. His platform includes support for tax incentives, combating human trafficking, advocating for alternative education paths, and addressing health issues in rural areas.
- Keisha Lance Bottoms (Democrat) – Former Atlanta mayor and adviser in the Biden administration, Bottoms has focused on improving public safety and housing during her tenure. She plans to expand Medicaid, eliminate income taxes for teachers, and address concerns surrounding corporate landlords while proposing investments in higher education.
- Burt Jones (Republican) – Currently the Lieutenant Governor, Jones has a background in finance and has participated in creating jobs in middle Georgia. His proposals include reform in educational funding, banning critical race theory in schools, and tax reductions, while emphasizing vocational education.
- Olu Brown (Democrat) – A former pastor turned strategy author, Brown seeks to reform the educational system, enhance affordable healthcare access, and support small businesses.
- Jason Esteves (Democrat) – As a current Georgia senator and healthcare clinic owner, Esteves has championed educational reforms and healthcare investment. He aims to improve healthcare access, protect reproductive rights, and lower housing costs.
- Derrick Jackson (Democrat) – Currently serving as a state representative and U.S. Navy veteran. Jackson’s platform includes raising the minimum wage, tax exemptions, protecting voting rights, and advocating environmental reforms. He has formally announced his candidacy for governor.
Notably, Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has opted out of the gubernatorial race despite garnering support for a potential campaign. The growing field of candidates is expected to create a competitive election cycle. In addition to the gubernatorial race, other statewide positions, including attorney general and lieutenant governor, are also attracting attention from new candidates. Strickland and Kennedy are vying for attorney general and lieutenant governor, respectively.
Additionally, legislative races are shaping up as state Rep. Jasmine Clark launches a congressional bid, while former state Rep. Farooq Mughal aims to reclaim his seat. The contentious political atmosphere in Georgia is likely to influence voter priorities in the upcoming election.
Key Facts About the Candidates
| Candidate | Political Party | Previous Role | Main Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Carr | Republican | Georgia Attorney General | Tax Incentives, Human Trafficking, Rural Health |
| Keisha Lance Bottoms | Democrat | Former Atlanta Mayor | Medicaid Expansion, Education, Affordable Housing |
| Burt Jones | Republican | Lt. Governor | Education Reform, Tax Cuts, Vocational Training |
| Olu Brown | Democrat | Former Lead Pastor | Education and Healthcare reform, Small Business Support |
| Jason Esteves | Democrat | State Senator | Healthcare, Reproductive Rights, Housing Costs |
| Derrick Jackson | Democrat | State Representative | Minimum Wage, Voting Rights, Environmental Reforms |
FAQ
Who is eligible to run for governor in Georgia?
Any American citizen who meets the age and residency requirements can run for governor in Georgia, except for those who have already served two consecutive terms.
When is the gubernatorial election in Georgia?
The gubernatorial election in Georgia is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
What are some critical issues candidates are focusing on?
Candidates are focusing on issues like healthcare access, education reform, tax policies, voting rights, and environmental reforms.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Metro Atlanta Schools Prepare to Reopen for New Academic Year
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones Announces Gubernatorial Run
Georgia Supreme Court Overturns Controversial Election Rules
Gubernatorial Race Heats Up in Georgia with Five Candidates
Derrick Jackson Launches Campaign for Georgia Governor
Georgia State Representative Derrick Jackson Announces Gubernatorial Bid
Keisha Lance Bottoms Announces Gubernatorial Bid
Keisha Lance Bottoms Announces Bid for Governor of Georgia
Keisha Lance Bottoms Considers Run for Georgia Governor
Keisha Lance Bottoms Considers Gubernatorial Run in Georgia
Additional Resources
- Patch: 2026 Gubernatorial Candidates – Here’s Who’s Running for GA Governor
- Atlanta News First: Here’s Who is Running or Not in the 2026 Georgia Governor’s Race
- Georgia Recorder: 2026 Comes Early as Candidates Announce Bids for Top Spots
- AJC: Marjorie Taylor Greene Opts Out of 2026 Governor’s Race
- Atlanta Magazine: The 2026 Georgia Governor’s Race is Already Heating Up – Here’s Who’s Running
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
