Crowded Governor’s Race Begins With Voters Focused on Affordability

ATLANTA, GA — With candidates from both major parties formally qualifying, the stage for what is expected to be a competitive campaign for the state’s highest office. The race to become Georgia’s next Governor is officially underway, but for many voters across the state the contest is already centered on the rising cost of living. While the field is crowded, early polling and campaign messaging suggest that affordability, health care access, jobs, and public safety will dominate the conversation for voters.

On the Democratic side, candidates are placing heavy emphasis on the economic pressures facing families. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has proposed expanding Medicaid, eliminating state income taxes for teachers, and offering free access to technical or community college education. Former lieutenant governor Geoff Duncan, who recently switched from the Republican Party to run as a Democrat, says he wants to focus on solving problems rather than political fights. Former state senator Jason Esteves is highlighting his personal experiences and policy background, arguing that his vision for Georgia focuses on restoring hope and giving voters a positive agenda to support. State representative Derrick Jackson says he will lead with a revolutionary philosophy centered on empowering Georgia’s working and middle-class families to reach their full potential. He will raise the minimum wage to $20 per hour and exempt state income taxes for nurses, public school teachers, military veterans, and seniors over 65—returning dignity, stability, and financial peace for every Georgian. Former DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond is campaigning on economic opportunity and strengthening public education, saying government should focus on creating jobs and expanding opportunity for Georgia families.

On the Republican side, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and health care executive Rick Jackson are shaping the Republican primary as they continue their legal dispute over Georgia’s “leadership committee” fundraising law, which allows certain statewide officials to raise unlimited funds through separate political committees. Jackson successfully challenged the provision in federal court, temporarily limiting the fundraising activities of Jones’ leadership committee during the primary race. Jones, who has Trump’s endorsement, is emphasizing his experience in state government and his record advocating for lower taxes, fewer regulations, strong public safety policies, and expanded educational opportunities. Political newcomer Jackson has pledged to invest at least $50 million of his own money early in the campaign. He is presenting himself as an outsider who says he wants to challenge what he calls a system dominated by career politicians. Other Republicans in the race include Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who is campaigning on trust in government and making Georgia more affordable and safe, while Attorney General Chris Carr is emphasizing economic growth and public safety.

Third-Party Candidate Seeks Ballot Access

Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver also entered the race and is appealing to voters who feel disconnected from both major parties. However, Oliver must collect at least 78,000 signatures by mid-July to qualify for the November ballot.

What Voters Should Know

Georgia’s primary election will take place May 19. If no candidate receives a majority of the vote, a runoff election will be held June 16. The winners of the party primaries will advance to the November general election.

For voters across Georgia — including communities in South Cobb and the metro Atlanta region — the months ahead will provide an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about how they plan to address the issues many residents say matter most: affordability, economic opportunity, health care access, and public safety.