Johnson Joins Race for GOP Nomination for Governor of Georgia

By Rachel Kapochunas | April 27, 2009 1:11 PM | | Comments (0)

Republican Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle's recent decision to drop out of the 2010 governor's race has prompted at least one Republican to alter his campaign plans: Republican state Sen. Eric Johnson announced Monday his decision to switch his campaign for lieutenant governor to the 2010 governor's race.

Johnson issued a statement saying he was prompted by Cagle's decision to end his gubernatorial campaign due to health concerns.

"Casey is a friend, a fine man, and a great Lieutenant Governor... He has earned the right to be our nominee and deserves the opportunity to take all the necessary time with his recovery," Johnson said.

Polls showed Cagle leading the GOP field at the time of his exit from the open-seat race.

Johnson joins Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel, state Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine, state Rep. Austin Scott, in the GOP field.

On the Democratic side, state attorney general Thurbert Baker, former adjutant general David Poythress, and state House minority leader DuBose Porter each have formed campaigns. Democratic former Gov. Roy Barnes also has indicated he is mulling a comeback.

CQ Politics rates the race Republican Favored.

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Categories: Georgia, Governor

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