Rick Jackson Wins Republican Runoff for Georgia Governor

Rick Jackson, a billionaire healthcare executive, has secured the Republican nomination for Georgia governor, as projected by CBS News. Raised in poverty and having lived in Atlanta’s public housing projects, Jackson has emerged victorious over Lt. Gov. Burt Jones in a fiercely contested runoff.

The runoff concluded one of Georgia’s most contentious Republican primary battles, featuring two lawsuits, a defamation claim, and a mobile billboard circulating metro Atlanta. Entering the race as a self-described conservative outsider in February 2026, Jackson pledged $50 million of his own money, becoming the top spender in the contest. Jackson’s campaign and ally spending exceeded $50 million on television ads alone, according to AdImpact.

Jackson’s campaign centered on his compelling personal narrative. He grew up facing numerous challenges, including moving through foster homes and schools, while living in Atlanta’s Techwood Homes projects before founding Jackson Healthcare. The company now operates nationwide, serving over 20 million patients annually and generating more than $3 billion in revenue.

After finishing fourth in the May primary, Attorney General Chris Carr endorsed Jackson, praising him as a ‘successful businessman and political outsider.’ Texas Sen. Ted Cruz also offered his endorsement just days before the runoff. Jackson was framed by supporters as a candidate capable of building on Brian Kemp’s legacy.

Despite entering the runoff as the frontrunner and gaining the backing of President Trump, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones faced significant legal challenges. Jackson sued Jones in federal court, contesting the advantage given by a Georgia campaign finance mechanism known as a leadership committee. A federal judge blocked Jones’ committee from financial activities amid the legal dispute.

Additionally, Jackson pursued a defamation lawsuit against Jones in Fulton County Superior Court. Jackson’s legal action responded to Jones’ campaign allegations that Jackson had ties to Planned Parenthood and practices related to transgender procedures on minors. The accusations were dismissed by Jackson as false and harmful.

Despite shared policy positions, such as tax cuts and opposition to woke ideology, the race’s outcome focused heavily on personal narratives, financial power, and endorsements. Jackson will face Democratic nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms in the November general election.