Georgia Holds Primary Elections for Senate and Governor

U.S. Senate race and a Republican contest for governor. m. m.

NBC analyst Steve Kornacki said the Republican Senate primary carries national implications because the winner will face Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff in November. State Reps. Mike Collins and Buddy Carter had led recent polls, while Derek Dooley moved into second place after receiving an endorsement from outgoing Gov.

Brian Kemp. Kornacki noted that the race is expected to reach a June runoff. He added that any Democratic path to Senate control depends on Ossoff retaining his seat.

Governor's Race The Republican primary for governor features Lt. Gov.

Burt Jones, who received an early endorsement from President Trump, and healthcare executive Rick Jackson, a late entrant who has positioned himself as aligned with the MAGA movement. Jackson has run ads stating that illegal immigrants in Georgia would be "deported or departed" if he wins.

Kornacki said Jackson's strategy aims to appeal to primary voters but may face limits in a general election. He described a gap between Jackson, Jones, and other candidates.

More than 1 million Georgians voted early, with Democrats casting 150,000 more ballots than Republicans, according to the Secretary of State's Office. Gov. Brian Kemp called a special legislative session to address voting procedures and redistricting for the 2028 election cycle. U.S. House.