Billionaire enters Georgia governor's race, Trump endorses in key district

Atlanta News First reports on major political developments in the Peach State

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Billionaire businessman Rick Jackson has shaken up Georgia's governor's race with his surprise entry, while former President Trump has endorsed a candidate in the race to succeed Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. These are the latest political developments covered in this week's "On The Record" program from Atlanta News First.

Why it matters

Georgia is a key swing state that will play a pivotal role in the 2028 presidential election, making the governor's race and other high-profile contests in the state important national storylines. The entry of a wealthy outsider candidate like Jackson, as well as Trump's continued influence in GOP primaries, could significantly impact the political landscape.

The details

Billionaire Rick Jackson has thrown his hat into the ring for the Georgia governor's race, shaking up the contest. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has endorsed a candidate in the race to succeed Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, underscoring his continued sway within the Republican Party.

  • The governor's race in Georgia is scheduled for November 2026.
  • The race to succeed Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene will take place in 2024.

The players

Rick Jackson

A billionaire businessman who has entered the 2026 Georgia governor's race as a surprise candidate.

Marjorie Taylor Greene

The current Congresswoman from Georgia's 14th district, who is not seeking re-election in 2024.

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What’s next

The 2026 Georgia governor's race and the 2024 race to succeed Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene will continue to be closely watched as key political storylines in the lead-up to the 2028 presidential election.

The takeaway

The entry of a wealthy outsider candidate like Rick Jackson, as well as former President Trump's continued influence in GOP primaries, could significantly impact the political landscape in Georgia, a crucial swing state that will play a pivotal role in the 2028 presidential election.