State House Democrat Derrick Jackson Joins Lieutenant Governor’s Race

Another state House member is jumping into the race for Georgia’s lieutenant governor post.

Rep. Derrick Jackson, a Tyrone Democrat, made the announcement Wednesday.

Jackson, who was first elected to the House in 2016, said he wants to work toward a Georgia “where everyone has full access to the American dream” and toward a state that provides “affordable and convenient access” to health care for all.

The Navy veteran emphasized his personal story in his announcement, saying he could sympathize with the struggles of everyday people because he had known hunger and poverty.

Jackson represents parts of Fulton and Fayette counties in the House.

The lieutenant governor presides over the Senate, but how much power the office has depends in part on how much power senators give it.

State Rep. Erick Allen, a second-term Smyrna Democrat, announced plans to run for lieutenant governor earlier.

Republican Geoff Duncan, the current incumbent, has signaled that he is unlikely to run again.

Republican Jeanne Seaver of Savannah, a business owner who has been active in campaigns for GOP candidates, announced she was running for the office in March.