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Georgia 2026 Election: Crowded Primaries Set for Governor and Senate Races
Candidates vie for open governor's seat and chance to challenge Sen. Jon Ossoff
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The qualifying stage is over, and now candidates in Georgia's governor and U.S. Senate races have begun the two-month sprint to the May 19 primaries. With Gov. Brian Kemp limited to two terms, the governor's mansion is open, and Democrats are hoping their recent statewide wins could mean a chance to take the state's top position. In the Senate race, three Republicans are battling for the chance to face Sen. Jon Ossoff, who is running unopposed with a large fundraising chest.
Why it matters
Georgia's governor and Senate races are crucial for both parties as they vie for control of the state's political landscape. The open governor's seat presents an opportunity for Democrats to make inroads, while Republicans are fighting to retain the position. The Senate race will be a key battleground as the GOP seeks to unseat incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff.
The details
On the Republican side of the gubernatorial race, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, and Attorney General Chris Carr are the leading contenders, with healthcare baron Rick Jackson also gaining attention. The Democratic field is crowded, with former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms regarded as the front-runner. In the Senate race, Republicans Mike Collins, Buddy Carter, and Derek Dooley are competing for the chance to challenge Ossoff, who is running unopposed in the Democratic primary.
- The qualifying stage for the governor and Senate races ended on Friday, March 6, 2026.
- The primaries for both races will be held on May 19, 2026.
The players
Brian Kemp
The current governor of Georgia, who is limited to two terms and cannot run for re-election.
Jon Ossoff
The incumbent Democratic U.S. Senator for Georgia, who is running unopposed in the Democratic primary.
Burt Jones
The Republican Lieutenant Governor of Georgia, who is running for governor.
Brad Raffensperger
The Republican Secretary of State of Georgia, who is running for governor.
Chris Carr
The Republican Attorney General of Georgia, who is running for governor.
What they’re saying
“Voters are looking for an outsider candidate not focused on their own political career or their political ambitions.”
— Derek Dooley, Former football coach and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate (cbsnews.com)
“I switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party after siding with Kemp to certify Georgia's 2020 presidential election results.”
— Geoff Duncan, Former Republican Lt. Governor of Georgia and Democratic gubernatorial candidate (cbsnews.com)
What’s next
The Republican and Democratic primaries for governor and Senate will be held on May 19, 2026. The winners will then advance to the general election in November 2026.
The takeaway
Georgia's 2026 elections will be a crucial battleground, with the open governor's seat and Senate race drawing intense interest from both parties. The crowded fields and high-profile candidates suggest a hard-fought campaign season ahead as Georgia voters determine the state's political direction.
