During her time in office, she directed COVID relief funding towards youth employment programs, linking education with workforce development.

Bottoms joins state Senator Jason Esteves as the only announced Democratic candidates in a state that has not elected a Democrat as governor since 2000.

Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has officially announced her candidacy for Governor of Georgia, seeking to replace term-limited Republican Governor Brian Kemp.

Her tenure as mayor was marked by controversy, including the police shooting of Rayshard Brooks and the tragic killing of 8-year-old Secoriea Turner during protests.

Acknowledging the barriers of racism and sexism, Bottoms expressed her readiness to earn the support of Georgia voters despite these challenges.

To build recognition, she plans to engage voters statewide, including in traditionally Republican areas, by visiting communities and events.

If elected, Bottoms would make history as the first Black woman governor in U.S. history, although she faces challenges similar to those encountered by previous Democratic candidates like Stacey Abrams.

Having served as mayor from 2018 to 2022, Bottoms gained national attention for her response to protests following George Floyd's death and opted not to seek a second term.

Bottoms' campaign platform includes expanding Medicaid, which has not been done in Georgia since the Affordable Care Act, and addressing key issues like support for teachers and small businesses.

In her campaign announcement, Bottoms emphasized the need for strong leadership in Georgia, stating, 'The state is looking for a fighter right now.'

She argues that the economic instability faced by Georgia, particularly in relation to Trump's tariff policies, underscores the need for effective leadership.

Bottoms highlighted Georgia's recent political shift to blue in the 2020 elections as evidence of potential success for Democrats in future elections.