Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has officially filed paperwork to raise funds for a 2026 run for Georgia governor. The Democrat, who became widely known for her leadership during her tenure as mayor, is expected to make a formal campaign announcement soon.

Bottoms’ entry into the race signals a competitive fight to replace the term-limited Republican Governor Brian Kemp, with fellow Democrat and State Senator Jason Esteves already eyeing the same office. Esteves, a lawyer and business owner, lacks the national profile of Bottoms, who has been a prominent political figure since her time as Atlanta’s mayor.

Keisha Lance Bottoms’ Political Journey and Run for Governor

Keisha Lance Bottoms first gained national recognition as a strong supporter of former President Joe Biden, even being considered as a potential vice-presidential pick. After serving as Atlanta’s mayor, Bottoms stepped down in 2022, a decision linked to a turbulent final year in office marked by a rise in violent crime and protests over police brutality.

Since leaving City Hall, Bottoms has worked as a CNN commentator and joined the Biden administration as Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. In a statement on her gubernatorial bid, she expressed gratitude for the public encouragement, calling it an honor to consider running for governor of Georgia.

“I am honored and humbled by the encouragement I have received as I have considered running for governor,” Bottoms said in her announcement.

Who Else is Running for Governor in Georgia?

Bottoms’ gubernatorial campaign faces significant competition. Alongside her, Democratic State Senator Jason Esteves, who is less well-known nationally, is another key contender for the Democratic nomination. Other prominent Georgia Democrats, including U.S. Representative Lucy McBath and former gubernatorial candidate Jason Carter, have ruled out running, leaving the field open for Bottoms to secure the Democratic nomination.

On the Republican side, Attorney General Chris Carr is already in the race, and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones is expected to announce his candidacy soon.

Bottoms’ Criticism of Trump and Georgia’s Future

Bottoms has often framed her potential run as a direct challenge to President Donald Trump’s influence, claiming Georgia needs leadership that prioritizes the community over partisan politics. In a recent statement, she emphasized the importance of avoiding the “moral and economic cliff” created by Trump’s policies.

“I believe Georgia needs leaders who aren’t blindly following Trump off of a moral and economic cliff but are focused on the pressing needs in our communities,” Bottoms said.

Reflecting on Bottoms’ Time as Atlanta Mayor

During her time as mayor of Atlanta, Bottoms dealt with some of the city’s most challenging moments. Her decision to forgo a second term as mayor in 2021 followed a surge in homicides during the COVID-19 pandemic, protests over police brutality, and the tense racial dynamics exacerbated by George Floyd’s killing.

In a widely praised moment, Bottoms, alongside Atlanta hip-hop icons Killer Mike and T.I., called for calm during protests. Despite facing criticism from President Trump and local political figures, Bottoms remained a steadfast advocate for reforms, including eliminating cash bail and distancing Atlanta from federal immigration enforcement policies.

Her tenure also saw significant moments, including the devastating cyberattack on the city’s computer systems and her role in negotiating downtown redevelopment projects. However, Amazon’s decision to build its second headquarters in Northern Virginia instead of Atlanta was a major setback.

The Road Ahead: Bottoms vs. Kemp?

As the Georgia governor’s race heats up, Bottoms’ name recognition and experience in handling crises position her as a formidable candidate. However, with the race still taking shape, it remains to be seen whether she can overcome her competition, especially with high-profile Republicans like Chris Carr entering the fray.

Whether Bottoms can secure the Democratic nomination and ultimately defeat a Republican contender like Governor Kemp remains to be seen, but her political journey is one to watch in the 2026 Georgia gubernatorial election.