State Sen. Jason Esteves launches bid for Georgia governor
Why it matters: Esteves, who represents parts of Atlanta, south Fulton and Cobb counties, is the first Democrat to formally enter the race to fill the seat, which will be open since Republican Gov. Brian Kemp is term-limited.
What they're saying: Esteves said in a press release that voters "pay the price" when "extreme politicians in Georgia push Trump's reckless agenda and rig the system for special interests."
"Now more than ever, we need to tackle the high cost of living, improve access to health care, protect women's reproductive freedom, lower housing costs, and invest in schools across the state," he said.
Catch up quick: Esteves was first elected to the state Senate in 2022. Before that, he served as chair of the Atlanta Board of Education.
He and his wife, Ariel, have two children and own restaurants in Columbus and Macon and several small businesses around Georgia.
Context: Esteves' announcement comes weeks after U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath (D-Georgia) suspended her exploratory campaign committee for governor due to family medical issues.
The big picture: Other high-profile Democrats are also considering running for governor, including former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, former DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Michael Thurmond and Stacey Abrams, who twice ran unsuccessfully against Brian Kemp for the office.
On the Republican side, Attorney General Chris Carr has already staked out a position, and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger are said to be weighing a run.
State of play: Ongoing uncertainty in Washington, D.C., over inflation, tariffs, foreign affairs and domestic policies could trickle down and benefit Democrats banking on a boost in the 2026 midterm elections.
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