Jason Esteves Enters Crowded Georgia Governor Race

Georgia State Sen. Jason Esteves has formally launched his 2026 gubernatorial campaign, becoming the first prominent Democrat to enter the race. Esteves, a former Atlanta Public Schools board chair and teacher, is highlighting his working-class background and legislative achievements focused on lowering living costs, expanding healthcare, restoring abortion rights, and investing in education. He positions his campaign as a challenge to what he terms 'Trump’s reckless agenda,' criticizing state Republican leaders for their alignment with former President Donald Trump. The Democratic field remains competitive, with former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and ex-DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond considering runs, while Stacey Abrams and Jason Carter have not ruled out candidacies. On the Republican side, Attorney General Chris Carr has officially announced his bid and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is expected to join the race, both supporting Trump’s platform. U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath, who had considered running, has suspended her exploratory effort for personal reasons.