DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Former DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond announced he will be running for Georgia governor in 2026.
Just hours before the official announcement, Thurmond sat down exclusively with Channel 2’s Karyn Greer.
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“I knew I wanted to do it two years ago,” said Thurmond, who has also served as Georgia’s Labor Commissioner and superintendent for DeKalb County Schools.
He revealed his decision to run for office after spending time traveling across Georgia to gauge public support for his candidacy.
“The reason I went out across the state, I wanted to make sure that there were other people who wanted me to be governor,” Thurmond said.
Thurmond emphasized the need for common sense and a focus on basic issues in the crowded gubernatorial field.
“I heard all across this state that people want common sense. They want someone who will focus on the basic issues,” he stated.
Reflecting on his upbringing, he said his personal story underscores his commitment to addressing the needs of Georgians.
“Kid grew up with no bathroom in the house. To leave 16. Daddy couldn’t read or write. And here I sit. What’s the odds on that?” he said.
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