Presidential Donald Trump on Monday endorsed Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones for governor in what is expected to be one of the key 2026 races.
Trump praised Jones for his loyalty and his athletic accomplishments as a former captain of the University of Georgia Bulldogs.
“He is a WARRIOR, a successful Businessman, former SEC Championship winning Georgia Bulldogs football player (Known for his toughness!), and now, as Lieutenant Governor, Burt has proven he has the Courage and Wisdom to deliver strong results for the incredible people of his wonderful State and Nation,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.
Jones is seeking to succeed Gov. Brian Kemp, with whom Trump has had a rocky relationship.
The lieutenant governor, who served in the Georgia Senate from 2013-2023, faces state Attorney General Chris Carr for the GOP’s nomination. Carr sued Jones in federal court Thursday, alleging campaign finance violations.
A state ethics commission previously declined to investigate whether Jones violated state law after Carr questioned the legality of a $10 million loan the lieutenant governor made to a campaign committee. Jones has denied any wrongdoing.
On the Democratic side, a crowded primary has already taken shape — with former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Senator Jason Esteves and pastor Olu Brown all seeking to flip the governor’s mansion in 2026.
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