Rick Jackson, a billionaire healthcare executive, has emerged victorious in the Republican runoff for Georgia governor, as projected by CBS News. Jackson defeated Lt. Gov. Burt Jones to secure the GOP nomination. This win marks the end of a highly contentious primary battle characterized by two lawsuits, a defamation claim, and aggressive campaigning tactics, including a mobile billboard in metro Atlanta.
Jackson’s Campaign Strategy
Jackson, who entered the race in February 2026, quickly transformed the contest by pledging up to $50 million of his own money. He spent more on his campaign than any other candidate in the field. According to AdImpact, an advertising intelligence company, Jackson’s campaign spending exceeded $50 million just on television ads leading up to the runoff.
Jackson built his campaign around his personal journey. He grew up in poverty, lived in Atlanta’s Techwood Homes public housing projects, and spent time in five foster homes and 13 schools. He later established Jackson Healthcare, a company operating in all 50 states, serving over 20 million patients annually, and generating more than $3 billion in revenue.
Key Endorsements and Support
Attorney General Chris Carr, after finishing fourth in the May primary, endorsed Jackson. Carr described Jackson as a “successful businessman and political outsider” who would continue Brian Kemp’s legacy. Jackson also received a crucial endorsement from Texas Sen. Ted Cruz shortly before the runoff.
Despite entering the runoff as the frontrunner with support from President Trump, Burt Jones was ultimately defeated. Trump had endorsed Jones since August 2025, emphasizing Jones’ early support for his presidential campaign.
Legal Challenges and Campaign Attacks
The race between Jackson and Jones was notably negative. Jackson filed a federal lawsuit against Jones, challenging a Georgia campaign finance mechanism known as a leadership committee, which he argued gave Jones an unfair fundraising advantage. A federal judge temporarily blocked Jones’ committee from raising or spending funds.
Jackson also initiated a defamation lawsuit in Fulton County Superior Court, following claims by Jones’ campaign on social media. The allegations suggested Jackson profited from recruiting for Planned Parenthood and aiding doctors in performing transgender procedures on minors. Jackson dismissed these accusations as false and strategically timed to influence conservative voters.
Both candidates shared similar policy positions, such as advocating for tax cuts, supporting law enforcement, combating illegal immigration, and opposing perceived “woke” ideology in schools. However, the race was largely decided by their biographies, financial capabilities, and political affiliations.
Rick Jackson will now contest the November general election against the Democratic nominee, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.