Rick Jackson and Burt Jones will face each other head to head in a June runoff. Photo credit: Ross Williams and Alander Rocha for the Georgia Recorder
A bruising fight between two Georgia Republican frontrunners for governor will continue for a few more weeks.
Neither Lt. Gov. Burt Jones nor wealthy healthcare executive Rick Jackson received over 50% of the vote Tuesday. The Associated Press called the race around 8:38 p.m., saying both Jackson and Jones would advance to a runoff.
Jones, who is endorsed by President Donald Trump, and Jackson will face off in a runoff for the Republican nomination on June 16.
Speaking at an election night watch party in north Atlanta, Jackson said that his campaign “shook up the career politicians and insiders to their core,’ often distinguishing himself from Jones’ career in politics spanning over a decade.
“I think it’s safe to say we shook up the career politicians and insiders to their core, but the job is not done. We have 28 days to finish it, and the choice could not be more clear or more important,” Jackson said Tuesday night.
In a statement, Jones mocked Jackson for spending about $83 million of his money on his campaign.
Both campaigns were largely self-funded, with Jones loaning his campaign $19 million on top of raising nearly $4.6 million.
“Tonight Georgia sent a clear message — you can’t buy this state and now, Georgia, it’s time to finish the drill,” Jones said. “We’re ready to win this race and then beat Keisha Lance Bottoms in November to keep Georgia the best place to live, work and raise a family. Georgia’s best days are ahead and I am ready to lead us there.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
