Jackson aims to close gap in Georgia GOP gubernatorial runoff

ATLANTA, Ga. (WTOC) - The Georgia runoff marks the end to a heated race, with Burt Jones and Rick Jackson with their sights set on the governor’s mansion.

Rick Jackson came second in last month’s primary election. The billionaire and healthcare CEO fell six points behind his opponent, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.

Jackson received 32% of the vote, with over 300,000 ballots cast in his favor. Jackson was the last candidate to join the race, launching his campaign in February.

Race becomes most expensive in state history

With over $100 million spent, the gubernatorial race made history as the most expensive in the state. The majority of that spending was at the hands of Rick Jackson.

A lot of that money went towards commercials that dominated the race. The governor’s race was heavily defined by attack ads between Jackson and Jones.

Jackson lacks key endorsements

Governor Brian Kemp made a late endorsement of Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. President Donald Trump’s stamp of approval also went to Jones.

While Jackson is missing those two key endorsements, he is backed by several conservative politicians, including Sen. Ted Cruz.

Campaign focuses on personal story, policy promises

A major point of focus in Jackson’s campaign is his rags to riches story. Growing up in foster care, he vows to support children growing up in the system.

If elected, Jackson vows to cut income tax in half, eliminate DEI in classrooms and crack down on immigration across the state.

Jackson has made several campaign stops in the Coastal Empire, the most of any candidate on the Republican primary ballot. He vows to make the Coastal Empire a priority as he looks to close the gap.

Jackson is hosting his watch party in Atlanta.