Georgia State Rep. Launches Lieutenant Governor Bid, Vows Tax Cuts

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Georgia State Rep. David Clark has announced his campaign for lieutenant governor, promising to eliminate the state's property and income taxes if elected. Clark, an Army Special Forces veteran, is the latest Republican to enter the crowded 2026 primary field.

Why it matters

Clark's tax cut proposals are likely to be a major focus of his campaign and could have significant implications for Georgia's budget and economy if enacted. The lieutenant governor's race is also shaping up to be highly competitive, with several high-profile Republicans and at least one Democrat already declared candidates.

The details

In launching his campaign, Clark pledged to defend Georgia's 'families, values and freedom.' His top priorities include freezing property taxes, granting seniors a $500,000 homestead exemption, and ultimately eliminating property taxes altogether. He is also calling for the elimination of the state income tax, arguing it would allow families to keep more of their paychecks and attract more businesses to Georgia. Clark's platform also includes blocking foreign adversaries from purchasing Georgia farmland or critical assets, expanding parental control in education, cracking down on fentanyl and gang activity, supporting law enforcement, expanding Second Amendment rights, and opposing what he describes as a 'radical' left-wing agenda.

• Clark has represented parts of Gwinnett, Forsyth and Hall counties in the Georgia House since 2015.
• Clark was removed from the Georgia House chamber in 2021 by then-House leadership after a dispute over the chamber's COVID-19 testing policy.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The lieutenant governor's race is already drawing several high-profile Republican candidates, and the winner of the GOP primary will likely face off against the Democratic nominee, state Sen. Josh McLaurin, in the general election.