Former President Barack Obama Endorses Keisha Lance-Bottoms For Governor: “I Hope You’ll Support My Friend”

Former President Barack Obama officially endorsed Democratic nominee Keisha Lance-Bottoms in the Georgia gubernatorial race today, injecting high-profile national star power into the contest just days before early voting begins.

In a campaign video released Thursday morning, Obama praised Bottoms’ extensive public service record, specifically highlighting her past roles as a judge, Atlanta city councilmember, and mayor of the state’s largest city.

“As a former judge, councilmember, and Mayor, Keisha believes that public service is about putting you first,” the former two-term Democratic president began. He then commended her mayoral record of balancing Atlanta’s budget without raising taxes, while simultaneously delivering pay raises for the city’s firefighters and police officers.

President @BarackObama has a message for Georgia: he’s standing with Keisha Lance Bottoms. Keisha is ready to bring her experience and leadership to the Governor’s office and deliver for every Georgian. She will lower costs, expand Medicaid, strengthen rural hospitals, and ensure our children and families have the opportunity to thrive. President Obama believes in Keisha. We believe in Keisha. And now it’s time for Georgia to believe in what’s possible. Early voting starts October 13.

— Keisha For Georgia (@KeishaForGA) October 8, 2026

He also stressed that Lance-Bottoms will work hard for children’s education.

Polls show the race for Georgia governor is deadlocked between Lance-Bottoms and Republican businessman Rick Jakconand will come down to mobilizing voters to get to the polls. President Obama remains the most popular former Democratic officeholder who has the ability to help drive up turnout among the party’s core voters.

“There’s a lot at stake in this election, Georgia”, Obama said. “Make your voice heard, and vote for Keisha Lance-Bottoms for governor”.

The former mayor pointed out that Obama is “standing with” her, and asked voters to do the same.

“President @BarackObama has a message for Georgia: he’s standing with Keisha Lance Bottoms. Keisha is ready to bring her experience and leadership to the Governor’s office and deliver for every Georgian. She will lower costs, expand Medicaid, strengthen rural hospitals, and ensure our children and families have the opportunity to thrive. President Obama believes in Keisha. We believe in Keisha. And now it’s time for Georgia to believe in what’s possible. Early voting starts October 13.”