President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Burt Jones in his Republican campaign for governor of Georgia, signaling strong support for the incumbent lieutenant governor as he aims to position himself as the leading candidate for the GOP nomination in 2026. The endorsement comes at a crucial time as Jones seeks to establish his candidacy in a competitive political landscape.
Trump's announcement occurred on Monday, emphasizing Jones' loyalty to Trump and his active role in supporting the former president during his three presidential campaigns. “He has been with us from the very beginning,” Trump expressed via social media, also highlighting his familiarity with Jones' family and his resilience during challenging times. Jones previously endorsed Trump during his initial run for the presidency in 2016, a fact that Trump made sure to acknowledge.
The race for the Republican nomination to succeed Governor Brian Kemp, who is unable to run again due to term limits, is shaping up to be competitive. Other prominent Republicans, including Attorney General Chris Carr, are also vying for the nomination. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger could potentially join the race as well. Despite Trump's support for Jones, Carr argues that he is in a better position to win the general election.
Republicans have dominated Georgia's gubernatorial elections since 2002, though the state has been trending more competitive. On the Democratic side, notable candidates such as former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Senator Jason Esteves, former labor commissioner Michael Thurmond, and state Representative Derrick Jackson are emerging as key figures in the contest to challenge Republican dominance.
Any Democratic candidate is likely to leverage Trump's endorsement of Jones against him. Kevin Donohoe, a spokesperson for the Democratic Governors Association, criticized Jones, asserting that his loyalty to “extreme, partisan politics” undermines his ability to act in the best interest of Georgia.
Notably, Jones was among the 16 state Republicans who falsely certified Trump as the winner of Georgia in the 2020 election, despite Democrat Joe Biden's victory. Jones also advocated for a special legislative session to attempt to overturn Biden’s narrow win, leading prosecutors to consider criminal charges against him. However, the legal authorities ultimately concluded that Jones did not act with criminal intent. In a speech at the state Republican convention in June 2023, Jones highlighted this legal peril as evidence of his steadfast support for Trump, identifying himself as an authentic “Trump guy” since 2015.
As the political landscape evolves leading up to the 2026 election, Jones’ endorsement from Trump certainly strengthens his position among Republican voters. However, the challenges remain as he faces qualified contenders and a dynamic Democratic opposition aiming to shift the balance of power in Georgia.
