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Jimmy Carter

Jason Carter seeks to reverse GOP tide in Georgia

Catalina Camia
USA TODAY
Georgia state Sen. Jason Carter, a Democrat, is running for governor in 2014.

Jason Carter's decision to run for governor of Georgia gives the Democratic Party another reason to cheer about its prospects in 2014.

The grandson of former president Jimmy Carter joins Michelle Nunn, daughter of ex-U.S. senator Sam Nunn, in hoping to boost their party in a state where Democrats haven't had much recent success. Nunn is running for the seat of retiring GOP Sen. Saxby Chambliss.

Roy Barnes in 1998 was the last Democrat elected governor of Georgia. Since 2005, Republicans have held both U.S. Senate seats. And President Obama lost Georgia in both 2008 and 2012.

Democrats "need some good news. Having individuals with some name recognition is helpful for them, and it may inspire the faithful to get involved again and maybe lengthen their list of contributors," says Charles Bullock, a professor of political science at the University of Georgia.

Citing the GOP's strength in Georgia, Bullock suggests that "Jason may be four years or eight years away from winning."

Carter, 38, a state senator since 2010, is seeking to take on Gov. Nathan Deal, a Republican who has faced numerous ethics problems. Deal faces at least two GOP primary opponents.

"Georgia at its best always has an honest government that works for everyone and not just good political donors or well-placed friends," Carter said Thursday as he declared his candidacy.

The Democratic Governors Association is touting Carter as a "proven fighter" for the middle class and slammed Deal. "For three long years, Georgia has suffered under the unethical Nathan Deal and an ideological agenda," says Colm O'Comartun, the DGA's executive director. "Georgia needs better and will get it when Jason Carter is elected governor."

The Georgia Republican Party criticized Carter and Nunn and promoted the GOP as having the right agenda and principles for the Peach State. "Now is not the time for handpicked, Atlanta liberals and the failed policies of the Democratic Party," the state GOP said in a statement.

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