By BallotWire
2025
Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta, has officially announced her candidacy for the 2026 Georgia gubernatorial race. Serving as mayor of Atlanta from 2018 to 2022, Bottoms has gained significant political experience, including her role in the Biden administration as a senior advisor and the director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. This experience has played a crucial role in shaping her political perspective and policy agenda.
Bottoms' entry into the race is particularly noteworthy as she aims to become Georgia's first Black woman governor. Bottoms enters a competitive race with several prominent figures already declared or expected to run. On the Democratic side, State Senator Jason Esteves has declared his intention to run, while two-time gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams may also consider joining the race. Meanwhile, the Republican side includes Attorney General Chris Carr, who has formally announced his candidacy.
Historically, Georgia's gubernatorial races have been dominated by Republican candidates. Since 2003, they have maintained control of the governor's mansion, with Brian Kemp successfully defending his position in 2018 and 2022 against Abrams, whom he defeated decisively in their recent rematch. The last time a Democrat held the governor's office was in 1998, when Roy Barnes was elected.
Despite these challenges, Democrats have shown resilience in federal elections. In 2020 the presidential election, Joe Biden secured Georgia's 16 electoral votes, marking the first time a Democrat achieved this since 1992. Additionally, Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock won their U.S. Senate races in early 2021, indicating a significant shift in Georgia's political dynamics.
Keisha Lance Bottoms campaign announcement video
Cover photo source: Senior Adviser to President Biden for Public engagement Keisha Lance Bottoms speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh).