01-04-2025
Williams resigns as Georgia Dems chair; McBath pauses governor bid
Georgia Democrats are in repair and rebuild mode after Monday's one-two punch of news that the party's chairman was stepping down and one of their strongest stars would pause her gubernatorial bid.
Why it matters: Monday's resignation of U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams as the party's chair and U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath's decision to suspend her exploratory committee over family medical issues adds to the minority party's weighty list of to-dos to regain political footing in Georgia.
Catch up quick: Some Democratic Party of Georgia leaders and activists have argued that Williams, who worked double-duty as one of the Atlanta area's representatives in Congress, should step down to allow another Democrat to occupy the role (and raise money for the party) full time.
What they're saying: In her resignation letter as chair, Williams noted she supported the party being led by a full-time official.
She urged supporters to, quoting the late Rep. John Lewis, "not get lost in a sea of despair" as the party prepares for 2026.
"As the first Black woman to chair the DPG, I set out to build a party that wasn't just reactive but proactive, not just present but powerful. That's exactly what we did."
State of play: Georgia Republicans control all levels of state government and have well-positioned incumbents, some of whom have visions of higher office.
Attorney General Chris Carr has already staked out a position, and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones (R-Jackson) and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger are expected to follow.
The field is less clear for Democrats, who are still building a bench to compete for the most powerful posts in Georgia politics.
Zoom in: McBath, who said she will not step down from her elected seat and has not totally ruled out a run, said she must devote time and energy to her husband and his recovery from cancer surgery complications, according to the AJC.
Other people said to be considering a run include former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, former DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Michael Thurmond, state Sen. Jason Esteves and Stacey Abrams, who twice ran unsuccessfully against Brian Kemp for the office.
Reality check: Qualifying for statewide and legislative offices is still a year away.
Plus, ongoing uncertainty in Washington, D.C. over inflation, tariffs, foreign affairs and domestic policies could trickle down and benefit Democrats banking on a midterm boost.
