Billionaire Enters Georgia Governor Race with $50M Pledge

Rick Jackson aims to disrupt state's political 'cartel' with anti-establishment message

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Billionaire Rick Jackson has officially announced his candidacy in the Republican primary for Georgia governor, pledging to self-fund his campaign with $50 million. Jackson, the founder of Jackson Healthcare, is positioning himself as an outsider against the state's political establishment, branding his opponents as 'career politicians' and vowing to be an 'unbuyable force' in the race.

Why it matters

Jackson's significant financial play and anti-establishment message could shift the dynamics of the already crowded Georgia gubernatorial race, where seven Democrats are also vying to end decades of Republican control of the governor's mansion. His entry adds further intrigue to the contest, which is already characterized by outside wealth and influence.

The details

Launching his campaign with theatrical flair, Jackson is aiming to disrupt what he calls a 'cartel' of Georgia's political establishment. He has drawn a line in the political sand, branding his opponents as 'career politicians' and contrasting himself as a real-life conservative who has known struggle, citing his upbringing in Atlanta's Techwood Homes.

  • Jackson officially announced his candidacy in the Republican primary in February 2026.
  • Early voting in the Georgia gubernatorial race is set to begin in just three months.

The players

Rick Jackson

The billionaire founder of Jackson Healthcare who has entered the Georgia governor's race, pledging $50 million to his campaign and positioning himself as an outsider against the state's political establishment.

Burt Jones

The current Lieutenant Governor of Georgia who is also running in the Republican primary for governor, and who has been endorsed by former President Trump.

Brad Raffensperger

The current Secretary of State of Georgia who is also running in the Republican primary for governor.

Chris Carr

The current Attorney General of Georgia who is also running in the Republican primary for governor.

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What they’re saying

“Career politicians are going to do nothing but keep you in the dark.”

— Rick Jackson (WRDW)

“Raffensperger to 'Judas'”

— Rick Jackson (WRDW)

“a 'never-Trumper'”

— Burt Jones, Lieutenant Governor (WRDW)

What’s next

The Georgia gubernatorial primary election is set for May 19, 2026, with a potential runoff on June 16 if no candidate secures an outright majority.

The takeaway

Jackson's entry into the Georgia governor's race with a $50 million pledge and anti-establishment message has added a new layer of intrigue to an already crowded and competitive contest. His ability to disrupt the state's political 'cartel' and appeal to voters as an outsider will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the Republican primary.