Judge Dismisses Carr Campaign Lawsuit Against Jones

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr challenging a law that gives Lt. Gov. Burt Jones a fundraising advantage in the 2026 Republican gubernatorial primary. The 2021 legislation allows certain elected officials, including the lieutenant governor, to form “leadership committees” that can raise unlimited funds for campaigns. Carr, as attorney general, does not have access to such a committee. Carr, as Georgia attorney general, does not have access to such a committee.

Judge Victoria Marie Calvert ruled that Carr lacked legal standing. Carr’s campaign indicated they are reviewing potential appeals, while Jones’s campaign criticized Carr’s legal approach. The Republican primary to succeed term-limited Gov. Brian Kemp is scheduled for next May.

Carr’s campaign noted the ruling was technical and did not address the merits of the case, suggesting an appeal is possible. “The court acknowledged that this statute gives Burt Jones an unfair and harmful advantage,” said spokeswoman Julia Mazzone.

Jones’s campaign responded with a sharp remark. “If Chris is this bad at being a lawyer, why would anyone want to give him a promotion?” said campaign spokeswoman Kendyl Parker.

Jones and Carr are competing for the Republican nomination to succeed term-limited Gov. Brian Kemp in the primary next May.