Kemp Rules Out Special Session on Redistricting and Executive Powers

Governor Brian Kemp announced Wednesday that he will not summon a special legislative session to redraw state maps or limit the powers of future governors.

The decision follows a Democratic victory in the 2026 midterms. Kemp issued the statement on the morning of November 4. He said the voters have spoken and that his administration will respect the election results while abiding by state law.

Republican leaders had previously considered redrawing maps for the 2028 election cycle. That effort was tied to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that changed protections under the Voting Rights Act. Lawmakers did not pursue the change during the summer session, but many expected Kemp to act after the election. His announcement ends that speculation.

Kemp left the door open for a future special session to address budget matters before the regular session starts in January. He said his office will monitor the state's fiscal outlook and keep legislators informed.

Danny Kanso, vice president of public policy at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, suggested the budget concern likely relates to an income tax cut package passed earlier this year. That law reduced the state income tax rate to 4.99 percent from 5.19 percent. It includes a provision to lower the rate to 3.99 percent if specific economic conditions are met.

The head of the governor's Office of Planning and Budget stated in May that the tax bill created a $1.3 billion hole in the state budget. Kemp implemented approximately $300 million in cuts to cover part of that gap. Kanso described the tax cut as fiscally irresponsible.

The state holds $8.7 billion in rainy day funds, according to an October report from the State Accounting Office. That amount is down from $14.6 billion in January. Governor-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms said she spoke with Kemp earlier in the day. She noted that Kemp mentioned specific priorities but did not define them.

Bottoms said she respects Kemp's prerogative to address budgetary issues before she takes office. House Minority Leader Carolyn Hugley, who may become the next speaker, said the standard budget process is already underway. She said the House will review Kemp's proposal and that Bottoms will likely adjust it to match her policy goals. Democratic State Senator Josh McLaurin said the election results signal that voters will resist further map changes. Bottoms expressed gratitude that Republicans will not alter the governor's powers.