From Seattletimes · · 1m 30s
Keisha Lance Bottoms Challenges Racial Barriers in Georgia Governor Race
Black woman Keisha Lance Bottoms runs for Georgia governor amid racial and political barriers.
In brief
Black woman Keisha Lance Bottoms runs for Georgia governor amid racial and political barriers. Keisha Lance Bottoms, a Black woman, seeks to become Georgia's first female governor despite Republican attacks on her leadership and racial background. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Keisha Lance Bottoms Campaign
Keisha Lance Bottoms, 56, a former Atlanta mayor and White House adviser to Joe Biden, runs for Georgia governor.
“I am at least a fifth-generation Georgian.”
Historical Context
No Black woman has ever been elected governor in any U.S. state.
Political Challenges
Bottoms faces Republican attacks on her leadership and Atlanta's crime rates during her tenure.
Republican Strategy
Rick Jackson, a 72-year-old Republican, funds $200 million in ads attacking Bottoms' leadership.
Atlanta's History
Atlanta hosted the Olympics and eight World Cup soccer matches in recent years.
2020 Protests
Bottoms addressed 2020 protests of police violence in Atlanta during a news conference.
“If you care about this city, then go home.”
Historical Precedent
Stacey Abrams lost to Republican Gov. Brian Kemp in 2018 and 2022.
Experience Argument
Bottoms has held executive roles as City Council member, magistrate judge, and prosecutor.
Republican Claims
Jackson claims Bottoms let Atlanta burn during protests and fires.
Crime Statistics
Atlanta saw a crime spike during Bottoms' tenure but rates dropped after the pandemic.
Policy Focus
Bottoms emphasizes economic struggles and expanding Medicaid eligibility for all Georgians.
Supporter Perspective
Retired educator Beverly Rice believes Bottoms can win with values-based decisions.
The one thing
Keisha Lance Bottoms, a Black woman, seeks to become Georgia's first female governor despite Republican attacks on her leadership and racial background.
