Geoff Duncan Weighs Political Future After Switching to Democratic Party

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Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan is considering a return to public office, this time as a Democrat, following his departure from the Republican Party. Duncan, who served from 2019 to 2023, officially announced his switch earlier this week and indicated that a decision regarding his political future could come within months.

In an interview with WSB-TV, Duncan explained that his move reflects a shift toward moderate politics, stating that “Georgians want people who can speak truth to power in the middle.” While he did not confirm which office he might seek, speculation suggests a possible gubernatorial run in 2026. Governor Brian Kemp, a Republican, is term-limited and will not be eligible to run again. Duncan previously served alongside Kemp during his tenure.

Names already circulating for the 2026 gubernatorial race include former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, who worked in the Biden administration. On the Republican side, current Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Attorney General Chris Carr are viewed as likely contenders.

Duncan’s departure from the Republican Party follows ongoing disputes with party leadership. He was formally expelled earlier this year by the Georgia Republican Party, which cited his endorsement of President Joe Biden in the 2024 election and his later support for Vice President Kamala Harris. The party also accused Duncan of actions it described as undermining GOP candidates, including Jones and former Senate candidate Herschel Walker.

Writing in an op-ed for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Duncan shared that his political transformation began before the 2020 election and was influenced by his values and faith. “There’s no date on a calendar or line in the sand that points to the exact moment in time my political heart changed, but it has,” he wrote. Duncan said his decision to switch parties was guided by a desire to approach policy through the principle of “loving your neighbor.”

President Donald Trump responded to the announcement by calling Duncan a “total loser” on Truth Social and claiming he was no longer welcome in the Republican Party.

Duncan, who also served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2013 to 2017, opted not to seek reelection as lieutenant governor in 2022. Since leaving office, he has been openly critical of Trump’s influence on the GOP, particularly in relation to the 2020 election and the January 6 Capitol breach.

In outlining his reasons for leaving the party, Duncan pointed to disagreements on key policy areas. He criticized the Trump-supported federal spending bill signed into law last month, alleging potential reductions in Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), though specific impacts remain under debate. Duncan expressed concern that the legislation could affect funding for low-income families and school meal programs.

He also commented on immigration, proposing a citizenship pathway for some migrants while supporting strong border security and the deportation of individuals who commit felonies. He argued that immigration policy should balance enforcement with practical solutions for those living in the country unlawfully.

On gun policy, Duncan referenced polling that shows support for measures such as universal background checks and red-flag laws. He suggested that the Republican Party should reconsider its stance on the issue in response to public opinion.

Reacting to Duncan’s switch, Georgia Republican Party Chairman Josh McKoon said, “Geoff Duncan has finally said out loud what any person with eyes has known for years: he is a Democrat.”

While Duncan has yet to announce a formal campaign, his recent speech at the Democratic National Convention in support of Vice President Harris and his public statements suggest he may be preparing for a new chapter in Georgia politics.