Billionaire Rick Jackson shakes up Georgia governor's race

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Burt Jones, the current lieutenant governor of Georgia and the presumed Republican nominee for governor, is facing an unexpected challenge from billionaire healthcare executive Rick Jackson. Jackson has already poured over $30 million of his own money into a blitz of TV ads, more than any candidate has ever spent in a Georgia gubernatorial primary. This has upended the race, with Jones now clinging to Trump's endorsement as Jackson consciously evokes the former president's style. The contest has become a test of Trump's political influence in a critical battleground state.

Why it matters

The Georgia governor's race is a key contest that could have national implications. Trump's endorsement has been a major factor in Republican primaries, but Jackson's massive self-funding is testing the limits of that influence. The outcome could signal the strength of Trump's hold on the GOP, as well as the role of money in shaping primary elections.

The details

Burt Jones, the current lieutenant governor, was seen as the inevitable Republican nominee for Georgia governor due to his family wealth, political experience, and Trump's endorsement. However, healthcare tycoon Rick Jackson unexpectedly entered the race in February, immediately dumping over $30 million of his own money into TV ads - more than any previous Georgia gubernatorial candidate. Jackson's lavish spending and conscious evocation of Trump's style have upended the race, forcing Jones to cling to the former president's endorsement. The contest has become a test of Trump's political sway, as the president's record in Georgia has been shaky, failing to dislodge the current governor and backing a losing Senate candidate in 2022. Jones is trying to counter Jackson by questioning his 'Make America Great Again' credentials, noting his history of donating to Republicans other than Trump. But Jackson has filed a defamation lawsuit in response, and his massive spending has already crowded out Jones and the other top Republican candidates.

• In February 2026, Rick Jackson unexpectedly entered the Georgia governor's race.
• On February 19, 2026, former President Donald Trump endorsed Burt Jones at an event in Rome, Georgia.
• On February 4, 2026, Rick Jackson launched his campaign at his custom-built office park in Alpharetta, Georgia.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Burt Jones to continue spending from his leadership committee, which could help maintain Rick Jackson's financial advantage.