Labor unions endorse Duncan in Georgia governor’s race as primary approaches
Former Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan gains electrical workers union backing in Democratic gubernatorial bid as May 19 primary approaches.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA — Former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan secured a significant labor endorsement this week as Georgia’s gubernatorial primary race intensifies with just over a month remaining until the May 19 election.
The IBEW Local 613, representing approximately 6,000 electrical workers across 54 counties, endorsed Duncan in his Democratic bid for governor on Wednesday, April 15. The endorsement marks an unusual move for the union, which typically waits until after primary elections to make endorsements.
“Geoff crossing the aisle with being a former Republican and lieutenant governor has a better opportunity to connect with all of our members, because our membership is pretty much 50/50 divided (politically),” said Kevin Swanson, who leads the local union.
Cross-Party Appeal Draws Union Support
Duncan, who previously served as lieutenant governor as a Republican, is now running for the state’s top office as a Democrat. His political transformation has attracted attention from labor groups seeking candidates who can bridge partisan divides.
The electrical workers union joins the Southern Regional Council of Carpenters, which endorsed Duncan in February, in backing his gubernatorial campaign. These endorsements come as the Georgia State AFL-CIO has decided to withhold endorsements until after primary voters select their nominees.
Fundraising Race Heats Up Statewide
While labor endorsements provide political momentum, campaign finance reports reveal varying financial positions across Georgia races. U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff and his eventual Republican opponent appear well-positioned financially for the November general election, according to recent filings.
However, the reports show at least one incumbent Georgia congressman has been outfundraised by several challengers, potentially signaling competitive races ahead in congressional districts across the state.
The May 19 primary will determine which candidates advance to November’s general election, setting the stage for what political observers expect to be closely watched contests throughout Georgia.
