Georgia held its primary elections on May 17, resulting in a runoff for the Republican governor nomination between Burt Jones and Rick Jackson, who finished first and second respectively. Brad Raffensperger placed third and was eliminated from the race [1, 2]. On the Democratic side, Keisha Lance Bottoms won the nomination outright, avoiding a runoff [1, 2]. Bottoms, who served as Atlanta's mayor from 2018 to 2022 and advised the Biden administration, aims to lead Democrats to their first Georgia gubernatorial victory since 1998 [2].
The Republican candidates spent heavily, with total campaign advertising exceeding $100 million. Rick Jackson personally contributed nearly $50 million to his campaign effort [1]. Early voting turnout surpassed one million ballots statewide, with Democrats holding a notable turnout advantage over Republicans [2]. Georgia remains a critical swing state after narrowly voting for Joe Biden in 2020 and electing two Democratic U.S. senators [1].
In nonpartisan judicial elections, two Georgia Supreme Court justices retained their seats by defeating Democratic-backed challengers Jen Jordan and Miracle Rankin [1]. The court currently has no members affiliated with the Democratic Party and is reviewing the legality of a six-week 'heartbeat' abortion ban [1].
The runoff between Jones and Jackson is scheduled for June 2026 [1]. The resulting nominee will face Keisha Lance Bottoms in the November general election.
