The Georgia Hour, episode 160: Georgia’s Governor Race Heats Up: Political Firestorms Await!

Dive into the sizzling Georgia governor’s race as Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announces his candidacy, joined by a diverse field of contenders like Chris Carr, Burt Jones, Clark Dean, and Democrat Jeff Duncan. This episode of The Georgia Hour with host BKP breaks down the political landscape, from Raffensperger’s Republican defiance to Duncan’s appeal to liberal voters. Explore key issues, candidate backgrounds, and the battle for swing voters in Georgia’s open primary. Stay informed on this high-stakes election shaping the state’s future.

Brad Raffensperger’s Governor Bid:
Georgia’s Secretary of State, known for resisting Trump’s 2020 election pressure, officially enters the 2026 governor’s race as a Republican.
Previously speculated to run for Senate, Raffensperger’s pivot to governor was predicted months ago by host BKP.
Faces challenges winning over the Republican base due to his 2020 stance, but aims to attract swing voters and independents in Georgia’s open primary.
Host attempts to contact Raffensperger live on air for an interview, emphasizing persistence to secure a conversation.
Crowded Republican Field:
Chris Carr: Current Attorney General with deep establishment ties, formerly chief of staff to Senator Johnny Isakson and economic development director under Governor Nathan Deal. Positioned as a mainstream Republican.
Burt Jones: Lieutenant Governor with a Trump endorsement, targeting the MAGA base. Questions linger about his ability to win statewide as a Trump-backed candidate.
Clark Dean: Wealthy Atlanta businessman and self-funded outsider candidate, focusing on results-driven leadership with a background in biomedical engineering and financial structuring.
Democrat Jeff Duncan’s Entry:
Former Republican now running as a Democrat, causing headaches for the party due to his liberal appeal.
Opinion piece by Patricia Murphy highlights Duncan as a white candidate in a field of Black Democratic contenders, potentially splitting the vote.
Host attempts to contact Duncan for clarity on his acceptance by Democratic voters, referencing his past support for the heartbeat bill.
Georgia’s Political Landscape:
Georgia’s open primary system allows independents to sway the vote, making them a critical battleground for candidates like Raffensperger and Duncan.
Discussion around whether the Republican base will accept Raffensperger and if Democrats will embrace Duncan.
Potential legal battles if the Georgia Republican Party attempts to block Raffensperger from the ballot, with warnings of legislative pushback to remove party control over qualifying.
Other Key Races and Issues:
Senate race update: Mike Collins, Derek Dooley, and Buddy Carter compete, with polls showing a tightening race.
Special elections loom, including State Senate District 21 (six days away) and Public Service Commission races (48 days away), highlighting local government’s importance.
Education crisis in Georgia: 35% proficiency in reading, 22% in math, with Dr. Randall Trammell challenging State School Superintendent Richard Woods.
Fani Willis removed from Trump’s election interference case, with Attorney General Chris Carr potentially positioned to dismiss it, boosting his campaign.
Community Engagement and Events:
Upcoming fish fry event on September 27, 2025, hosted by Central Georgia Republicans, offering candidates a platform to connect with voters.
Emphasizes voter engagement, urging respectful but direct questioning of candidates at political events.
The Georgia Hour plans a live three-hour broadcast at the fish fry to discuss voter priorities and candidate platforms.
Why This Matters:
Georgia’s governor race is a national focal point, testing whether a Republican like Raffensperger can overcome party divisions and if Democrats can unify behind Duncan.
The outcome will shape Georgia’s policies on education, abortion, gambling, and more, with candidates’ stances under scrutiny.
Stay tuned to The Georgia Hour for exclusive interviews and updates as BKP navigates this dynamic political season.