Georgia Democrats to Face Off in Gubernatorial Debate

Top three candidates to make their case to voters ahead of May primary

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:06pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty podium on a dimly lit stage, with warm diagonal sunlight and deep shadows creating a sense of anticipation and drama.As Georgia Democrats prepare to choose their gubernatorial nominee, the upcoming debate offers a chance for the leading candidates to make their case to voters in a nostalgic, cinematic setting.Atlanta Today

The leading Democratic candidates for Georgia governor will participate in a televised debate this week, giving voters a chance to hear their platforms ahead of the May primary election. Former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, ex-Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, and DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond will take the stage to address key issues for the state.

Why it matters

The Georgia governor's race is expected to be one of the most closely watched in the country, with the winner likely to play a pivotal role in the 2028 presidential election. This debate provides a high-profile opportunity for the Democratic contenders to distinguish themselves and appeal to a wide range of primary voters.

The details

The hour-long debate will be held on Wednesday, April 15 at the 11Alive studios in Atlanta, running from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time. It will be televised across the state and streamed online. The three candidates who qualified - Bottoms, Duncan, and Thurmond - will address key issues for Georgia voters, though the public will not be able to submit questions directly.

  • The debate will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
  • The debate will run from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

The players

Keisha Lance Bottoms

Former mayor of Atlanta and the frontrunner in the Democratic primary for Georgia governor.

Geoff Duncan

Former Republican lieutenant governor of Georgia who is running as a Democrat for the governorship.

Michael Thurmond

CEO of DeKalb County and a candidate in the Democratic primary for Georgia governor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of the Democratic primary will face off against the Republican nominee in the November general election.

The takeaway

This debate represents a critical opportunity for the leading Democratic candidates to distinguish themselves and appeal to a wide range of primary voters in a high-stakes race that could have national implications.