GOP Candidate Jackson Skips Forum Focused on Black Voters

Decision draws criticism from both parties over candidate outreach efforts.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:07pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting an empty podium on a stage, with warm sunlight casting deep shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of solitude and missed opportunity.The absence of a Republican candidate at a forum focused on the Black community raises concerns about political outreach and engagement.Watkinsville Today

Rick Jackson, a Republican candidate for statewide office in Georgia, has withdrawn from a Sunday forum focused on issues facing the Black community, according to event organizers. The decision drew swift criticism from both Democratic and Republican figures, who questioned Jackson's willingness to engage with Black voters.

Why it matters

Candidate forums and debates are important opportunities for voters, especially marginalized communities, to hear directly from those seeking elected office. Jackson's absence raises questions about his commitment to addressing the concerns of Black Georgians, a key voting bloc in the state.

The details

Dr. Barbara Campbell, Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia's African-American Caucus, called Jackson's absence "shameful," questioning how he could expect to lead the state without addressing critical issues for Black Georgians. Shelley Wynter, co-sponsor of the event and radio host, announced Jackson's withdrawal on air and argued that serious candidates should be prepared to address all communities. Wynter suggested that Jackson's decision may have been influenced by criticism from rival Burt Jones at a previous event earlier in the week.

  • The forum was scheduled for Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Rick Jackson

A Republican candidate for statewide office in Georgia who withdrew from a forum focused on issues affecting the Black community.

Dr. Barbara Campbell

Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia's African-American Caucus, who criticized Jackson's absence from the forum.

Shelley Wynter

Co-sponsor of the event and radio host, who announced Jackson's withdrawal and argued that serious candidates should be prepared to address all communities.

Burt Jones

A rival Republican candidate who had previously criticized Jackson at another event.

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What they’re saying

“Rick Jackson's decision to skip a candidate forum focused on issues affecting Black Georgians is shameful. How can he expect to lead the state without addressing critical issues for our community?”

— Dr. Barbara Campbell, Chair, Democratic Party of Georgia's African-American Caucus

“Serious candidates should be prepared to address all communities. Rick Jackson's withdrawal suggests he may have been influenced by criticism from his rival, Burt Jones, at a previous event.”

— Shelley Wynter, Co-sponsor of the event, radio host

What’s next

The forum is still scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 29, 2026, despite Jackson's withdrawal. Organizers have indicated they will proceed with the event and continue to press candidates on their willingness to engage with the Black community.

The takeaway

Rick Jackson's decision to skip a forum focused on issues affecting Black Georgians raises concerns about his commitment to addressing the needs of this critical voting bloc. Candidate forums and debates are important opportunities for voters to hear directly from those seeking elected office, and Jackson's absence suggests he may be unwilling to confront tough questions or criticisms from his rivals.