GOP Gov. candidate Rick Jackson meets with voters in Savannah

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Jackson made his pitch to Savannah voters, presenting himself as an outsider “who can’t be bought” as questions follow him about his record and the money behind his campaign.

Jackson spoke with residents during a meet-and-greet at the AC Hotel on River Street on Tuesday, where he led with his personal story, describing a childhood marked by family struggles and time in foster care. He argued that background connects him to working families.

For some in the room, the message resonated.

“I did have a sort of similar childhood, and I did face a lot of issues that it seems like he grew up with and that really spoke to me,” said Joneé Avendano-Mitchell, who attended the event.

Jackson also addressed attacks from rival Burt Jones, including accusations tied to Medicare fraud, which Jackson called false.

“In order to make Medicare fraud, you actually have to bill Medicare. We bill hospitals,” Jackson said. “We provide doctors and nurses and so forth to hospitals therefore we have never committed Medicare fraud.”

Jackson’s campaign has also already topped $50 million in spending. Asked how much more he would spend during the campaign, he responded: “Whatever it takes for me to win.”

While Jackson said he supports former President Donald Trump — who has already endorsed Jones — he said he is not campaigning for an endorsement but rather running to be the voice for the voters who feel left out.

“I’m not asking for his endorsement, obviously that would be great,” Jackson said. “I just want to basically represent the people of Georgia.”

Avendano-Mitchell said she was also impressed by Jackson’s claim that he caps his own salary and gives away what he earns.

“I’m just amazed,” she said. “It was like a really good refreshing surprise. He definitely won my vote.”

Jones is scheduled to campaign in Metter on Thursday.