Georgia GOP Turns Tides: Rick Jackson Defeats Burt Jones in Historic Runoff Victory

Rick Jackson, a healthcare executive, defeated Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones on Tuesday in Georgia’s Republican gubernatorial runoff election, securing 52.9% of the vote to Jones’ 47.1%. The victory came after Jackson overcame strong support from President Donald Trump and outgoing Governor Brian Kemp for his rival.

With approximately 91% of ballots counted, Jackson claimed the nomination following a campaign that saw him invest tens of millions in advertising and voter outreach. He argued that his experience building a major healthcare staffing company made him better suited than career politicians to lead Georgia.

Jones, who served a decade in the state Senate before becoming lieutenant governor in 2023, entered the runoff as the establishment favorite and received endorsements from Trump and Kemp. The contest became one of the most expensive gubernatorial primaries in Georgia history, forcing a runoff after neither candidate achieved a majority in May’s primary.

Jackson now advances to the November general election against Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms, former Atlanta mayor. Republicans have held the Georgia governorship since 2003, and this race is expected to be among the most closely watched gubernatorial contests of the 2026 midterm cycle.