Keisha Lance Bottoms launches Georgia governor bid

Former Atlanta mayor seeks to succeed term-limited Republican Brian Kemp

Apr. 20, 2026 at 10:59am

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A serene, painterly image of the Georgia state capitol building, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative mood around the iconic structure.The historic Georgia state capitol building stands as a backdrop for the state's upcoming gubernatorial race.Atlanta Today

Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta, has officially launched her campaign to become the next governor of Georgia. Bottoms, a Democrat, is seeking to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Brian Kemp. As a popular figure in metro Atlanta, Bottoms is expected to be a strong contender in the race.

Why it matters

Bottoms' entry into the Georgia governor's race is significant, as she brings strong name recognition and political experience from her time as mayor of Atlanta. Her campaign could help energize Democratic voters in the state, particularly in the vote-rich Atlanta metro area.

The details

Bottoms served as the mayor of Atlanta from 2018 to 2022, winning the 2017 mayoral election with overwhelming support in the city. Prior to becoming mayor, she served on the Atlanta City Council. As governor, Bottoms would seek to build on her record as mayor, focusing on issues like economic development, education, and infrastructure.

  • Bottoms formally launched her campaign for Georgia governor on April 20, 2026.
  • Kemp, the current Republican governor, is term-limited and cannot run for re-election.

The players

Keisha Lance Bottoms

The former mayor of Atlanta who is now running for governor of Georgia as a Democrat.

Brian Kemp

The current Republican governor of Georgia, who is term-limited and cannot run for re-election.

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What they’re saying

“I'm running for governor because I know that Georgia's best days are still ahead of us.”

— Keisha Lance Bottoms, Candidate for Georgia Governor

What’s next

Bottoms will now begin campaigning across the state, seeking to build support and raise funds for her gubernatorial bid. The Democratic primary is expected to be competitive, with other high-profile candidates potentially entering the race.

The takeaway

Bottoms' entry into the Georgia governor's race adds an experienced and well-known Democratic candidate to the field. Her campaign could help mobilize urban and suburban voters in the state, potentially setting up a closely watched general election battle.