Georgia Primary Elections 2026: High Stakes, Runoffs, and Competitive Races
The primary elections in Georgia on Tuesday have been marked by high fundraising, intense Republican primaries, and strong Democratic turnout. Many key races are likely to head to runoffs on June 16, with Republicans vying for the chance to challenge incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff and both parties navigating a crowded field for the governor's seat. The Senate and gubernatorial contests are expected to be highly competitive in November. Additionally, attention is focused on two nonpartisan Georgia Supreme Court seats that Democrats are aiming to flip.
Georgia, like other states in 2026, has seen a surge in turnout driven by Democrats. Over a million Georgians cast their ballots early, with Democrats holding a significant turnout advantage over Republicans. Incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff faces a tough reelection battle, with a divisive Republican primary dominating the race. Rep. Mike Collins leads in polls and fundraising, followed by Derek Dooley and Rep. Buddy Carter. The race is likely to head to a runoff, with President Trump yet to offer an endorsement.
The open governor's race in Georgia is highly competitive, with both parties' primaries focusing on electability. Republican Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, endorsed by Trump, initially had a strong lead but faces competition from billionaire Rick Jackson, who has spent heavily on his campaign. The race has become the most expensive primary in Georgia's history, with candidates emphasizing the need to turn out base voters and appeal to moderates to maintain control of the state government.
The Republican and Democratic primaries for the governor's race are expected to head to runoffs. Democratic candidates include former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, former state Sen. Jason Esteves, and former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan. Concerns about nominating the right candidate have been raised, particularly regarding Bottoms' tenure and association with the Biden administration. The race is seen as a toss-up.
In addition to the governor's race, two seats on the Georgia Supreme Court are up for grabs. The nominally nonpartisan race features challenges to Republican-appointed incumbents by two Democrats, Jen Jordan and Miracle Rankin. Recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions, such as the Voting Rights Act case, have brought attention to the importance of state courts. The outcome of the election will also impact redistricting efforts in Georgia.
Georgia has seen a surge in Democratic enthusiasm and voter turnout, with Democrats outnumbering Republicans in early voting. The trend of Democratic enthusiasm has been observed in other states as well, with Democrats surpassing Republicans in turnout. Despite mixed feelings about the national Democratic party, voters are turning out in large numbers due to dissatisfaction with Republicans and Trump's agenda. The midterm elections in Georgia are poised to be closely contested and pivotal for the state's political landscape.