Kemp endorses Jones for governor ahead of runoff

ATLANTA, Ga. (WTOC) - Gov. Brian Kemp endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones on Sunday ahead of Tuesday’s runoff election.

Jones has endorsements from both Kemp and President Donald Trump. Jones faces a runoff in the Republican primary before the November general election against Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms.

“Over the last eight years, we’ve achieved historic wins for hardworking Georgians from all walks of life and made our state the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” Kemp said in a statement.

Kemp cited Jones’ work in the state Senate and as lieutenant governor, including efforts to return over $9 billion to taxpayers, raise pay and retirement benefits for state law enforcement, and pass tort reform.

“Burt knows how to get things done as governor because that’s what he has done as state senator and as your Lt. Governor,” Kemp said.

Jones said he was honored to receive Kemp’s endorsement.

“When I receive an endorsement it’s because the person knows me, they know my proven conservative record, they know my work ethic, and they know when I say I’m going to do something, I do it,” Jones said.

The runoff election is Tuesday, June 16. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.