Former President Joe Biden endorsed former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms in her campaign for governor of Georgia, marking his first endorsement since leaving office in 2022. In a video announcement, Biden praised Bottoms as “smart” and “focused,” emphasizing her effectiveness as a leader during her tenure as mayor and her role as a senior adviser in his administration. Bottoms is competing in a crowded Democratic primary that includes former state Sen. Jason Esteves, former state labor commissioner Michael Thurmond, and former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, who has switched parties. While Bottoms leads in public polling, it remains uncertain if she will secure over 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff in the May 19 primary. The Democratic nominee will face the Republican candidate in a state that has not elected a Democratic governor since 1999.
Why It Matters
This endorsement is significant as it highlights Biden’s support for a prominent figure in a critical gubernatorial race in Georgia, a state pivotal in national elections. Historically, Georgia has leaned Republican in statewide elections, with the last Democratic governor serving from 1999 to 2003. In recent elections, Democratic candidates, such as Stacey Abrams, have come close to winning the governorship, indicating a competitive political landscape. The outcome of the 2024 gubernatorial race will impact local and national Democratic strategies in a state where voter turnout can be decisive.
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