Kemp skips special session before term ends

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced Wednesday morning that he will not convene a special session of the state General Assembly before his term concludes in January. The decision follows the Tuesday night election results, in which former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was declared the winner of the gubernatorial race against Republican nominee Rick Jackson.

In a written statement, Kemp confirmed his intent to respect the outcomes of the elections, which he described as secure, accessible, and fair. While he ruled out a special session to debate redistricting changes or curtail executive branch powers, the governor noted that specific budgetary issues may still require attention. He indicated that these financial matters could be addressed prior to the regular legislative session that convenes in January.

Kemp posted messages on his personal social media accounts to congratulate Bottoms and Sen. Jon Ossoff on their victories. Ossoff retained his Senate seat, a result that allowed Democrats to regain control of the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House. Kemp also thanked Jackson for his campaign efforts and the other Republican candidates who ran for office.

In his public remarks, Kemp included a personal note about his family’s prayers for the incoming governor. “Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the governor-elect and her family as they lead our state over the next four years,” Kemp wrote. He also expressed gratitude to Jackson and the broader Republican field for running spirited campaigns.

Kemp stated that the Republican Party needs to reflect on the election results. He maintained that conservative principles lead to greater freedom, security, and prosperity for Americans, and he called for a return to those ideals in the coming months and years. Bottoms will officially assume the governorship in January.