The Georgia Hour, episode 20: 2026 Georgia Governor's Race Heats Up Amid Legislative Moves

As Georgia's 2025 legislative session continues, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is expected to announce his candidacy for governor in April, setting up a potential showdown with Attorney General Chris Carr. Political tensions are rising as Governor Brian Kemp reportedly distances himself from Jones, while the AJC seems cautiously supportive of Jones, only to likely turn against him once he becomes the GOP nominee. Legislative changes, such as a bill eliminating taxes on tips and SB39 targeting transgender youth healthcare, are also fueling political debates with implications for the 2026 elections. The GOP is facing challenges, with infighting among factions and fears of a Democratic resurgence, led by figures like Keisha Lance Bottoms. Meanwhile, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee is targeting the Georgia House as a potential power shift in 2026, leaving the GOP scrambling to unite and regroup. With growing divisions, the question remains whether Republicans can maintain their foothold or risk a Democratic takeover.