NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Savannah, GA., December 30, 2025: Georgia’s 2026 race for governor formally enters the public arena on Thursday, January 8, when Savannah hosts the first televised Democratic Gubernatorial Forum of the election cycle. The event, organized by the Democratic Party of Chatham County, will air live on WJCL 22 (ABC) from Jonesville Baptist Church, offering voters across the state an early look at the Democratic field and the issues shaping the campaign.
Moderated by WJCL 22 news anchor Greg Coy, the forum is being positioned as a substantive, policy-focused conversation rather than a spectacle. Candidates are expected to address housing affordability, workforce development, healthcare access, economic growth, and how Georgia should govern amid shifting federal dynamics.
For Indian American voters, particularly those in Metro Atlanta and Georgia’s fast-growing suburbs, the forum signals more than the start of another campaign season. It reflects the growing political relevance of communities that are deeply invested in education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and civic participation — areas central to the forum’s agenda.
Why Savannah — and Why It Matters
Holding the first Democratic forum in Savannah underscores the city’s rising profile in statewide politics beyond Metro Atlanta. Coastal Georgia represents one of the largest Democratic voting blocs outside the Atlanta region, yet is often overlooked in early campaign conversations. Broadcasting the forum live ensures broad access, while follow-up digital segments will incorporate community-submitted questions.
“This forum is about giving voters real access to the people who want to lead Georgia,” said Orlando Scott, communications chair for the Democratic Party of Chatham County, in a statement announcing the event. “By hosting this event in Savannah and broadcasting it live, we are making it clear that Coastal Georgia’s voices, concerns, and priorities matter in this race.”
An Indian American Lens
Georgia’s Indian American population — concentrated in counties such as Gwinnett, Cobb, Fulton, and Forsyth — has grown steadily over the past two decades. Many are small-business owners, technology professionals, healthcare workers, and educators. Issues like workforce development, Medicaid expansion, cost of healthcare, and housing affordability directly affect these communities.
Political observers note that Indian Americans have also become more visible in civic life, serving on school boards, library boards, city councils, and local commissions. Early forums such as this one offer an opportunity for voters to assess which candidates speak meaningfully to immigrant experiences, economic mobility, and inclusive governance.
The Democratic Candidates to Watch
The Savannah forum is expected to feature a wide range of Democratic candidates seeking Georgia’s highest office. As of late 2025, the declared Democratic field includes:
- Keisha Lance Bottoms — Former Mayor of Atlanta and former White House senior adviser, widely seen as one of the race’s most prominent contenders.
- Jason Esteves — Former state senator known for his work in public education and policy reform.
- Michael Thurmond — Former DeKalb County CEO and former Georgia labor commissioner with deep experience in local governance.
- Derrick Jackson — State representative and military veteran who has focused on public safety and economic issues.
- Olujimi Brown — Pastor and community advocate emphasizing grassroots engagement.
- Ruwa Romman — State representative and civil rights attorney, known for her progressive platform and historic election to the Georgia legislature.
- Geoff Duncan — Former Republican lieutenant governor who has entered the race as a Democrat, positioning himself as a centrist voice.
The final lineup will be confirmed closer to the event, but organizers say the goal is to give voters a comprehensive view of the Democratic field at the very start of the campaign.
Looking Ahead
The Savannah forum is the first installment of the Savannah Debate Series, a three-part initiative that will also include a Republican gubernatorial forum in early spring 2026 and a general election debate in the fall. Together, the events aim to elevate civic dialogue and broaden voter engagement statewide.
For Indian American voters — many of whom prioritize stability, opportunity, and effective governance — the January 8 forum offers an early chance to listen closely, ask questions, and begin shaping the conversation around Georgia’s future.
Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the forum beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public, though advance RSVP is encouraged due to limited seating.
Cover photo credit: Aude/Wikimedia.
