Resolution criteria

The Democratic primary will be held on May 19, 2026. The winner will be determined by the candidate who becomes the Democratic nominee - whether after the initial primary or a runoff election.

Background

Roy Barnes (D), elected in 1998, was the last Democrat elected governor in the state. Four candidates - Keisha Bottoms, Geoff Duncan, Jason Esteves, and Michael Thurmond - lead in polling, fundraising, and media coverage ahead of the primary. In the Democratic primary for Governor, 35% support former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, 13% former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, and 7% former DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond. A plurality (39%) are undecided.