From left to right, Democratic candidate for Gov. Stacey Abrams, Republican candidate for Gov. Casey Cagle and Republican candidate for gov. and current Secretary of State Brian Kemp, all speaking at victory parties Tuesday, May 22, 2018.

From left to right, Democratic candidate for Gov. Stacey Abrams, Republican candidate for Gov. Casey Cagle and Republican candidate for gov. and current Secretary of State Brian Kemp, all speaking at victory parties Tuesday, May 22, 2018.

The race to succeed Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has become costly. New financial reports show governor candidate spending is at $33 million and it’s expected to increase. Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle is up against Secretary of State Brian Kemp in the July 24 GOP runoff.

Cagle continues to lead with $10.5 million, this includes $290,000 from lobbyists. Kemp is holding his own but has $4.5 million. Kemp’s campaign has reserved $1 million for TV as the race comes to a close. Democrat Stacy Abrams has worked to raise her profile since her primary win and has raised $6 million overall.

Our panelists weigh in on the costly governor race.

 

Panelists:

Republican Strategist Loretta Lepore

AJC Political Reporter Greg Bluestein

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond

Former Attorney General of Georgia Sam Olens

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