Rick Jackson committed to three debates against Keisha Lance Bottoms ahead of the November 3, 2026 general election for Georgia governor.
The Republican nominee responded directly to the Democratic former Atlanta mayor's proposal, setting up a series of televised exchanges that will define the fall campaign.
Jackson Embraces the Format
Jackson told Atlanta News First that he would debate Bottoms. "Of course I’ll debate her," he said, adding that he looks forward to the events because voters will see a clear choice and a difference between the candidates.
The acceptance came quickly after Bottoms issued her challenge. Jackson's response avoids any appearance of reluctance and positions him to use the debates to highlight his business background and primary victory over Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.
Bottoms Proposes Three Events
Keisha Lance Bottoms called for three televised debates, including at least one town hall-style forum, before the November 3, 2026 general election. Multiple outlets including CBS News Atlanta and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported the details of her proposal.
The format gives Bottoms repeated opportunities to contrast her record as Atlanta mayor with Jackson's self-funded campaign. Georgia has not elected a Democratic governor this century, and Bottoms is seeking to become the state's first Black female governor.
