Former state senator and Democratic candidate for governor Jason Esteves recently joined News & Talk WAOK to discuss his 2026 campaign for Georgia governor.
Mr. Esteves, who represented parts of Atlanta in the Georgia Senate from 2023 to 2024, said his decision to run stems from frustration with what he described as stagnant progress for everyday Georgians. He referenced the story of a DeKalb County bus driver who has worked since 1986 but still cannot afford to retire, calling it symbolic of the broader economic hardships many residents face.
"There are people all across this state who feel left behind by Georgia's progress," Mr. Esteves said. "They keep getting failed by politicians, both Republicans and Democrats, who are not delivering for them."
Mr. Esteves emphasized that his campaign will focus on improving access to healthcare, affordable housing, and quality education. He said his priorities include expanding Medicaid, lowering the cost of private health insurance, and building healthcare hubs to ensure no Georgian has to travel more than 45 minutes for medical care. He also pledged to tackle the state's high maternal mortality rate, which disproportionately affects Black women.
On housing, Mr. Esteves said he plans to reduce costs by discouraging large investment firms from buying single-family homes and by helping first-time homebuyers enter the market. His education platform calls for fully funding public schools and supporting teachers.
He also framed his campaign as one rooted in personal experience. Raised in Columbus by parents who did not attend college, Mr. Esteves said those early lessons in perseverance and service shaped his approach to leadership. Now a small business owner, husband, and father of two, he said he understands the everyday concerns of Georgia families, from child care to elder care. He noted that he and his wife have been caregivers for his mother, who lives with Alzheimer's, which he said has informed his understanding of the state's senior care challenges.
During his tenure in the state Senate, Mr. Esteves worked on legislation to expand healthcare access, provide tax relief for seniors, and oppose efforts to split Atlanta through the Buckhead cityhood proposal. Before his time in the legislature, he helped lead Atlanta Public Schools through a period of reform that raised graduation rates from about 55% to over 90%.
"I have the record, I have the vision for the future of our state, and I have the lived experiences that Georgia needs to move forward," Mr. Esteves said.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.
