Outsider Candidate Rick Jackson Pitches Foster Care Advocacy, Tax Cuts, and Rural Jobs in Georgia Governor Bid

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Rick Jackson, a first-time political candidate, is running for Georgia governor on a platform of advocating for foster children, cutting taxes, and creating jobs in rural areas. Jackson, who describes himself as an 'outsider like Trump,' wants to 'run the state like a business' and focus on measurable outcomes. He has leveled repeated accusations of self-interest and corruption against his primary rival, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who has denied any wrongdoing.

Why it matters

Jackson's outsider campaign and focus on issues like foster care advocacy and tax cuts could resonate with some Georgia voters who are dissatisfied with the political establishment. His business-minded approach and promises to streamline government operations also align with the economic priorities of many Republican voters in the state.

The details

Jackson said his political motivation grew out of years of advocacy for foster children and a moment at the state Capitol when a state chairman told him he had served 17 years without hearing the words 'foster care.' Jackson, who said he was a foster child himself, argued that foster children and other vulnerable groups lack the money and influence needed to get attention from state leadership. On taxes, Jackson backed a major 50% income tax cut during his first term, arguing the state could accomplish that by reducing overhead and growing revenue through economic development. He also called for freezing and reducing property taxes, citing concerns about widows being priced out of their homes. Jackson also pitched a business-minded approach to job creation, saying he would emulate Florida Gov. Rick Scott's practice of calling business leaders daily to recruit companies. He supports developing more in-state processing capacity for agricultural products to increase farmer earnings and create jobs.

• Jackson announced his campaign for Georgia governor in March 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Jackson has filed a defamation lawsuit against Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, citing allegations he said were false and harmful. He referenced a temporary restraining order and said he expected further court proceedings.