Trump Endorses Burt Jones in Georgia Governor Race

Georgia’s 2026 gubernatorial race is still nearly a year away, but major endorsements are already shaping the field. President Donald Trump formally endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones this week, signaling his choice in the Republican primary. In a social media post with multiple phrases in all caps, Trump praised Jones for being one of the first in the Georgia Legislature to endorse his presidential campaign and for working “tirelessly” in 2016, 2020, and 2024. He concluded, “Burt Jones for governor has my complete and total endorsement – he will never let you down!”

Jones faces Attorney General Chris Carr, his most recognized Republican primary opponent. Carr’s campaign responded to The Center Square, stating, “Chris Carr is the only conservative Republican who can win the primary and the general election. The attorney general will continue to work with President Trump now and as governor on the issues that matter to hardworking Georgians.”

Political analysts say Trump’s backing could boost Jones, though it is not a guaranteed path to victory. Dr. Zachary F. Peskowitz of Emory University noted that while endorsements can help distinguish candidates in a primary, recent Georgia elections have shown it is possible to win without Trump’s support, citing Gov. Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.

In addition to Jones and Carr, seven other Republicans have filed to run, though most are lesser-known figures. Independent candidate Scotty Ellison has also entered the race.

On the Democratic side, former Georgia Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Sen. Jason Esteves, and state Rep. Derrick Jackson headline a long list of candidates. Esteves and Bottoms have already secured endorsements from local leaders and organizations, positioning themselves as early frontrunners in their primary.

The Georgia primary date has not been set. The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

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