ATLANTA — Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr says he’s running for governor in 2026. The Republican’s announcement Thursday makes him the first major candidate from either party in the race.

Carr got his start into politics when he joined U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson’s staff in 2004 and became Isakson’s Chief of Staff in 2007. In 2016, Carr was appointed attorney general by then governor Nathan Deal.

Republican Governor Brian Kemp is limited to two terms.

It’s early to announce a 2026 candidacy, but Carr started lining up donors for a run more than a year ago. During Carr’s time as attorney general, Republican lawmakers have given him increasing powers to directly prosecute criminals. Carr has aligned closely with Kemp, but could face opposition from President-elect Donald Trump in a primary election.

Other potential Republican contenders include Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.