With Governor Brian Kemp barred from seeking a third term, the 2026 race for Georgia’s top office is beginning to heat up. A wide field of declared and potential candidates from both parties is emerging, setting the stage for what could be one of the most consequential gubernatorial elections in the state’s history.
The open race has already drawn Attorney General Chris Carr on the Republican side and State Sen. Jason Esteves among Democrats, with several high-profile names still weighing their decisions.
Democrats Lead with Attacks, While Republicans Emphasize Stability and Safety
State Sen. Jason Esteves (D-Atlanta) officially entered the race Monday, launching his campaign with a video titled “Underdog.” The former teacher and chair of the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education used the announcement to sharply criticize Georgia Republicans, aligning his platform with national progressive priorities.
“I’ve had enough of families working harder than ever but still struggling and our kids falling behind instead of getting ahead,” Esteves said. “Yet extreme politicians in Georgia push Trump’s reckless agenda, rig the system for special interests and stick us with the bill.”
As Esteves delivered those remarks, images of former President Donald Trump, Governor Kemp, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, and Attorney General Chris Carr appeared on screen — a clear sign that his campaign will lean heavily on opposition messaging rather than policy detail.
Attorney General Chris Carr Launches Campaign Focused on Law and Order
In contrast, Republican Chris Carr is running on his record as Attorney General, spotlighting his leadership in cracking down on violent crime, illegal immigration, and human trafficking. His campaign video, “Keep Georgia Strong,” emphasizes the importance of stable leadership and resisting radical change.
“For decades, we’ve been the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a business,” Carr said. “That hasn’t happened by chance. It’s happened because we’ve had leaders who are willing to make tough decisions, put Georgians first and stood strong in the face of adversity. Progressive activists are trying to radically transform our values and our economy. As your attorney general, I’ve made it my mission to keep Georgia safe.”
Carr has previously drawn criticism from Trump allies for not endorsing claims of election fraud in 2020, but he remains firmly supportive of the former president’s second-term agenda and has continued to prioritize public safety and constitutional protections.
Other Republicans Eye the Field
Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, a longtime ally of President Trump, is widely expected to enter the race. While his alignment with Trump may appeal to Republican primary voters, analysts say it remains unclear how that dynamic might play in a general election.
“If the economy goes bad, if inflation is up, if unemployment is up, then some of the luster may be taken off of Trump,” said University of Georgia political scientist Charles Bullock.
“For the MAGA folks, it probably doesn’t matter, but for the critical element of independents and, in the general election, of white, college-educated voters, if Trump’s attractiveness has been substantially reduced, then that certainly works for the advantage of Democrats.”
Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, another potential GOP contender, represents a more independent conservative lane. Having drawn fire from Trump for refusing to overturn Georgia’s 2020 election results, Raffensperger may appeal to moderates and institutional conservatives seeking a less combative candidate.
Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has also publicly floated the idea of entering either the gubernatorial race or challenging U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff. Her national profile and staunch defense of conservative values could shake up the race if she decides to run.
Democratic Bench Still Forming
On the Democratic side, the field remains uncertain. Rep. Lucy McBath, once seen as a strong potential contender, announced she would pause any plans for higher office to care for her husband following cancer surgery.
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has expressed interest and is reportedly preparing a run. Meanwhile, former DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond and 2018 and 2022 nominee Stacey Abrams have yet to rule out a bid. A crowded primary, observers warn, could complicate the party’s path to victory.
“If they get into it, then a lot of money will be spent within the primary,” Bullock said.
“Sooner or later… there would be a tendency to go negative, especially if at least three serious candidates get into it, so you have a runoff.”
Kemp’s Next Move Could Shift the Field
Governor Brian Kemp is reportedly considering a challenge to Sen. Jon Ossoff in 2026. With high approval ratings and a proven track record of winning statewide races, Kemp would instantly become a top-tier Senate contender.
However, Bullock notes the move could be a tough sell. “As governor, Kemp has sway over all aspects of state government,” he said. “In the Senate, he’d be one of 100… the scope of his influence is going to be tiny compared to what he has now.”
If Kemp does not run, other GOP leaders — including Insurance Commissioner John King and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper — could enter the Senate race, potentially triggering a domino effect across Georgia’s statewide offices and reshaping the political landscape in 2026.
