Georgia’s political landscape shifted Tuesday as one of the state’s top Republican lawmakers abruptly resigned his Senate seat, clearing the way for a full-throttle campaign for lieutenant governor.
According to The Associated Press, state Sen. John Kennedy — a Macon attorney who rose to president pro tempore in 2023 — announced he is leaving the legislature effective immediately.
His decision removes one of the GOP’s most influential voices from the Capitol just weeks before the next session is set to begin.
In a written statement, Kennedy said he couldn’t responsibly juggle both jobs.
“Continuing my service in the state senate while also running for Lt. Governor would be a disservice to both my constituents and the thousands of hardworking Georgians who have pledged their support for our vision,” he said.
Kennedy entered the crowded Republican primary in June, joining a field already filling with well-known conservatives eager to replace current Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who is running for governor next year.
Remaining in the Senate would have barred Kennedy from raising campaign money during the legislative session — a major disadvantage in a statewide race that could hinge on fundraising strength.
His early exit mirrors the move made by Democrat Jason Esteves, the former state senator who was the first 2026 statewide candidate to resign his legislative post. Kennedy becomes the second lawmaker this cycle to step aside to campaign full-time.
Gov. Brian Kemp will now schedule a special election to fill the Senate District 18 seat, a district covering parts of Macon-Bibb County in central Georgia. That vote is expected to take place during the legislative session, adding another layer of political maneuvering to an already complicated year.
Kennedy is positioning himself as the candidate of Georgia’s business community after championing legislation this year that restricts lawsuits and civil verdicts — a change strongly supported by industry groups.
He first won election to the Senate in 2014 and built a reputation as a methodical, business-minded conservative.
The GOP primary field is shaping up to be one of the most competitive statewide battles of 2026. Republicans state Sen. Greg Dolezal, state Rep. David Clark, and state Sen. Blake Tillery are all running. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Josh McLaurin is currently the lone contender.
Kennedy’s resignation signals he’s betting big on gaining momentum early — and that the fight for Georgia’s second-highest office is officially underway.
