Stacey Abrams reportedly considers a third run for Georgia governor despite growing opposition from her own party and a trail of electoral defeats.
At a Glance
- Stacey Abrams is weighing a third gubernatorial run despite having lost twice to Republican Brian Kemp
- Several Georgia Democratic leaders believe Abrams’ political opportunity has passed
- Abrams faces potential competition from rising Democrats like Jason Esteves, Keisha Bottoms, and Michael Thurmond
- Her voting rights group, the New Georgia Project, was fined $300,000 for campaign finance violations
- The Georgia Senate has introduced a resolution to investigate Abrams’ connections to the nonprofit
Democrats Question Abrams’ Third Run Viability
Stacey Abrams is reportedly considering another bid for Georgia’s governorship despite being defeated twice by Republican Brian Kemp. This potential third attempt comes as numerous state Democratic leaders warn that her political window has closed. Former Appling County Democratic Committee chairman Jimmy Johnson has expressed skepticism about her chances, while Marilyn Langford, vice chair of Georgia 9th District Democrats, suggests the timing is wrong for another Abrams campaign.
Abrams, who served in the Georgia House of Representatives before her gubernatorial bids, has maintained a high profile in Democratic politics despite her electoral setbacks. However, her potential candidacy appears increasingly divisive within her own party. Some Democrats fear she could dominate a primary while proving ineffective in a general election against Republican opposition, creating a strategic dilemma for the party as it tries to gain ground in Georgia.
Rising Competition and Party Renewal
If Abrams does enter the race, she may face significant primary competition from a new generation of Georgia Democrats. State Senator Jason Esteves, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms, and former DeKalb County Chief Executive Michael Thurmond have all been mentioned as potential candidates who could challenge her. This emerging field represents a desire within some Democratic circles for fresh leadership to confront Georgia’s Republican establishment.
Some party leaders, including Pete Fuller, actively advocate for competitive primaries to strengthen the Democratic bench in Georgia. This push for new candidates reflects growing concern that Abrams, despite her fundraising prowess and national profile, may no longer represent the party’s best chance to capture the governorship. The internal debate highlights the challenges Democrats face in a state that has shown signs of competitive races but remains under Republican control.
Controversies and Republican Response
Abrams faces additional challenges beyond electoral history. Her voting rights organization, the New Georgia Project, was recently fined $300,000 for campaign finance violations, raising questions about her leadership and organizational practices. The Georgia Senate has introduced a resolution specifically targeting Abrams, seeking to investigate her connections to the nonprofit and its financial activities.
Republicans have responded to rumors of Abrams’ potential candidacy with apparent enthusiasm. Cody Hall, an adviser to Governor Kemp, sarcastically encouraged Abrams to run again, suggesting Republicans view her as a beatable opponent. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones has been particularly critical, alleging Georgians were “defrauded” by Abrams. These reactions indicate Republicans may prefer facing Abrams for a third time rather than contending with a new Democratic challenger who lacks her political baggage.
