ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - The grandson of Georgia’s most famous governor is endorsing a former Atlanta state senator in his quest to become the state’s first Democrat governor elected this century.

On Wednesday, Jason Carter — himself a former gubernatorial hopeful — endorsed Jason Esteves in Georgia’s nationally watched 2026 governor’s race.

Like Esteves, Carter, grandson of the late former President Jimmy Carter, is also a former state senator who represented metro Atlanta’s 42nd district in 2010. He was reelected in 2012.

Two years later, Carter launched an unsuccessful bid for governor against Republican Nathan Deal, who would go on to serve two terms in the governor’s mansion.

Esteves is one of seven Democrats who hope to succeed outgoing Gov. Brian Kemp, who is term-limited. Right now, there are four Republicans who are also vying for their party’s nomination in May 2026.

“It’s an honor to be endorsed by Jason Carter, a dedicated public servant and friend,” Esteves said in a statement. “I’m proud that my campaign is building a strong coalition that can win next year - and finally build a future where every Georgian can thrive.”

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Several months ago, Carter himself was rumored to be a potential Democratic gubernatorial contender. But in April, he told the Associated Press he needed to focus on his wife, Kate, who had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer.

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