The race:
Georgia governor
Party:
Republican
The lane:
Rick Jackson blends hard-line MAGA policies with the business-conservatism that old-school Republicans are known for. Because he is not endorsed by President Donald Trump, Jackson is mounting an insurgency campaign.
The basics:
Jackson grew up in the former Techwood Homes in Atlanta. His mother struggled with alcoholism and never knew his father. Jackson dropped out of college and took a sales job that only paid commissions. He later bought the company. Currently, Jackson Healthcare is one of America’s largest healthcare staffing companies and generates an estimated $3 billion in revenue.
Why he’s running:
Jackson promises strict immigration enforcement, deportations of undocumented immigrants convicted of violent crimes, continued opposition to DEI initiatives, and anti-“woke” education policies. He is against gender-affirming care for minors. Jackson also calls for slashing Georgia’s income tax in half and freezing property taxes.
What’s working:
Rick Jackson is self-funding his race. With his $50 billion war chest, Jackson quickly sprinted to the top of polls while building name recognition. Jackson is winning over Republicans who aren’t dialed in with the Georgia GOP machines.
The challenge:
Questions persist regarding his MAGA-tinted messaging. Since Trump endorsed his rival, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, Jackson has to overcome the idea he’s ‘buying’ the Republican nomination. Also, Jackson does not have the deep relationships within the party compared to his rivals.
What to watch:
If Jackson is matched up in a runoff with Burt Jones, will there be a coordinated campaign in order to shove Jackson aside? Conversely, will Jackson be able to overcome not having Trump’s support ahead of the May 19th primary election?
Campaign website: https://rickjackson.com/
