Gov. Brian Kemp endorses Burt Jones for Georgia governor ahead of primary runoff

Gov. Brian Kemp has endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones for the 2026 governor's race. 

Kemp made the announcement via social media on Sunday, ending months of speculation about his stance in the hotly contested Republican primary.

"Burt knows how to get things done as governor because that's what he has done as a state senator and as your Lt. Governor," Kemp said in the post on X. "The hardest part about being governor is making decisions that aren't always popular or easy. I've worked alongside Burt for nearly fifteen years and I'm confident that he will always put hardworking Georgians first.

"Marty, the girls, and I are proud to endorse Burt Jones to be the 84th Governor of the great state of Georgia and ask you to join us in supporting him on Tuesday."

He praised Jones's record on economic growth and public safety. 

The endorsement is expected to provide a significant boost to Jones's campaign, which already commands strong support among the GOP base.

Jones welcomed Kemp's backing, calling it "an honor" and pledging to continue Kemp's legacy of "conservative leadership and commonsense solutions." 

Political observers say the move could consolidate Republican support behind Jones and reshape the race's dynamics.

The endorsement drew immediate reactions from other candidates and party officials, with some expressing surprise at Kemp's decision. 

The primary is expected to remain competitive, but Kemp's support could prove decisive as candidates vie for the Republican nomination ahead of the November election.

Stay tuned to CBS News Atlanta for continuing coverage on this developing story.