Former Atlanta Mayor Bottoms Announces Run for Georgia Governor

Keisha Lance Bottoms, former Atlanta mayor and Biden administration official, has announced her candidacy for Georgia governor in the 2026 election, positioning herself as a leading Democrat in a highly competitive race. Bottoms has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump, blaming his administration for economic hardships, workforce reductions at key federal agencies like the CDC, and failing to expand Medicaid in Georgia — a policy she vows to prioritize if elected. She emphasizes her record as mayor, highlighting historic pay raises for public safety workers and prudent fiscal management during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Bottoms faces competition from fellow Democrat Jason Esteves and Republican Attorney General Chris Carr, with the race rated as a toss-up by political analysts. Her campaign also symbolizes an opportunity for Democrats to regain ground in Georgia, a crucial swing state Trump narrowly won in 2024, with Bottoms potentially becoming the first Black female governor in the U.S. if victorious. Bottoms stresses the importance of addressing economic and healthcare issues to connect with voters, underscoring the need for Democrats to listen to constituents’ concerns beyond cultural issues.