Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk and Dooly County Sheriff Craig Peavy announced today that they are endorsing Republican candidate Rick Jackson for Governor of Georgia.
What do these endorsements mean for the Jackson Campaign? Since these endorsements come from Democratic figures, they lend credibility to Jackson’s bipartisan positioning.
The endorsements also cast doubt on Keisha Lance Bottoms and her record on crime and law enforcement. Now, voters might be encouraged to ask: “What about her record prevented her from landing these endorsements instead?”
What key figures are saying:
- Sheriff Ashley Paulk: “Public safety is more important than political affiliations. Rick Jackson has made it clear that he will support law enforcement and partner with sheriffs to provide the resources needed to keep our communities safe. He will help us take on the challenges facing the criminal justice system, especially the mental health crisis overwhelming many of our jails. Most of all, Rick will listen to sheriffs and respect the job we do.”
- Sheriff Craig Peavy: “Rick Jackson is the candidate I trust to stand with sheriffs and law enforcement. I have Rick Jackson’s back because I know he has our back. He will be a true partner and help us keep Georgia safe.”
- Rick Jackson in response: “Public safety isn't a left or right issue. It's a matter of public trust. We'll support law enforcement, recruit and retain officers, and work to make every neighborhood and street safe. THANK YOU to Sheriff Ashley Paulk and Sheriff Craig Peavy for supporting our campaign!”
Further Context: Sheriff Paulk has successfully run as a Democrat in seven elections, but has an extensive history of endorsing Republicans, including Governor Brian Kemp (R-GA). In fact, when asked, he could not recall endorsing a Democrat for statewide office.
Rick Jackson has also secured several high-level endorsements from figures such as Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Ted Cruz (R-TX), as well as Attorney General Chris Carr. These new endorsements only add to the diversity of Jackson’s coalition.
