Pastor Olu Brown announces bid for Georgia Governor in 2026

As everyone focuses on the upcoming General Elections in November, at least one person is already looking beyond and is setting his sights on the 2026 gubernatorial race. The Rev. Olujimi (Olu) Brown, founder, and former lead pastor of Impact United Methodist Church in East Point has officially announced his candidacy for Georgia governor in 2026. Said Brown, “I believe it’s time for a new face, a new voice, and a new generation of leadership in Georgia who truly listens.”

The 47-year-old United Methodist Church pastor, leadership consultant, and author is considered a long shot for the nomination against several high-profile Democratic challengers, but he remains confident. “I’ve said over the years that Georgia is a big place, and this campaign is going to reflect that from day one,” noted Brown, who is promoting his campaign on Instagram, X, and Facebook. “As a candidate for governor, I will listen and show that I care.”

Brown, who retired from Impact Church in 2022, has launched a campaign website, listeningtogeorgians.org, and plans to hold in-person and virtual listening tours across Georgia through December.

Though Brown may have gotten a head start with his early announcement, political observers note that he will face stiff competition from potential candidates like Congresswoman Lucy McBath, former state Sen. Jason Carter, and DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond.

Born in Lufkin, Texas, Brown graduated from Jarvis Christian College and earned a Master of Divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta.

The gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.