Derrick Jackson: Fighting for Georgia’s Future with Boots on the Ground Leadership

Game Changers
Oct 6
3 min read

“African Americans were told in 2020 that putting someone in office who looked like us would bring real change,” Jackson said. “That promise has not been fulfilled.”

written by Chilton Stewart

Game Changers Magazine sat down with State Representative Derrick Jackson, a Democratic candidate for Governor of Georgia, to discuss his vision for leadership, his military background, and why he believes 2026 is a turning point for Georgia politics.

A Fighter for the People

Representative Jackson pulls no punches when it comes to addressing the Democratic Party’s challenges. “African Americans were told in 2020 that putting someone in office who looked like us would bring real change,” Jackson said. “That promise has not been fulfilled.”

He points to polling numbers that reveal growing frustration: Democrats at 34% favorability—the lowest in nearly four decades—while Republicans, even with a deeply flawed candidate, poll higher at 39%.

For Jackson, the solution lies in authentic, proven leadership. With 22 years of decorated military service, rising from enlisted E-1 to retiring as a Lieutenant Commander, he stresses the importance of discipline, honor, and service. “Eighty percent of Americans, regardless of party, respect the military. That crossover appeal matters. We need someone who has sworn the oath and stood ready to defend the Constitution.”

Challenging the Status Quo

Jackson criticized the Democratic Party for allowing its opponents to control the narrative. “Game Changers Media Network wouldn’t let another company define its brand—and the Democratic Party shouldn’t either. Since 1964, Black men and women have carried this party: 92% of Black women and 80% of Black men voted Democrat in 2024. Yet too often, we’re left behind.”

He warned against framing upcoming races as a battle of gender, with rumors of Stacey Abrams or Keisha Lance Bottoms entering the race. “It’s not man versus woman—it’s about the best candidate to beat the Republican nominee. And Republicans already know who their champion is: Bert Jones.”

Framing the election, Jackson put it simply: “This is Navy Commander versus UGA football captain.”

Jobs, Economic Development & Rural Georgia

Jackson’s platform extends beyond politics—it’s about economic justice for all Georgians. He highlighted the loss of more than 318,000 jobs for Black women and 571,000 jobs for Black people in just the past year due to attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

His answer: invest in rural Georgia, where too many communities feel forgotten. He proposes new infrastructure, distribution of casino projects outside Atlanta to create regional jobs, and high-speed rail to connect Georgia to the global stage.

“Plants and jobs are shifting closer to Atlanta, but rural Georgians deserve opportunity too. Why not put a casino in Camden, Columbus, or Blue Ridge? Why are we stuffing everything into Atlanta?”

Green Energy and Public Health

Georgia’s air quality and healthcare crisis weigh heavily on Jackson’s agenda. “Out of 159 counties, only 13 require emissions testing. Pollution doesn’t stay in Atlanta—it affects all of us.”

He calls for statewide air quality monitoring, expanded healthcare access, and embracing green energy solutions. From geothermal housing developments to energy-efficient grants for small businesses, Jackson envisions a cleaner, more sustainable Georgia.

Reparations: Fulfilling a Broken Promise

On one of the most debated issues, Jackson did not hesitate: “I’m the only candidate openly talking about reparations.”

He explained the history: President Lincoln authorized reparations—not for freed slaves, but for slave owners, who were paid $300 per enslaved person and granted millions of acres of land. Black people, promised “40 acres and a mule,” received nothing.

“For Georgia, with a 33% Black population, reparations mean allocating 33% of the $16 billion state budget—about $5.28 billion—to empower Black families. It’s not a handout. It’s a promissory note that needs to be fulfilled.”

A Call to Action

As our conversation closed, Jackson urged Georgians to join the movement:

Pray for endurance – “This race is not for the swift, but for those who endure.”
Donate at VoteDerrickJackson.org – “We don’t have $10 million checks from wealthy donors, but the people’s power can fuel this campaign.”
Tell 10 to Tell 10 – “Spread the word. Relationships will win this race.”

With 760,000 registered Georgia voters not casting ballots in recent races, Jackson sees mobilization as the key to victory.

The Bottom Line

Derrick Jackson isn’t selling empty promises—he’s running on service, sacrifice, and a clear-eyed vision for Georgia’s future. “If I don’t do what I say I’ll do, don’t give me another term,” he told us.

From reparations to rural economic development, from healthcare to green energy, from jobs to justice, Jackson positions himself not just as a candidate, but as a commander ready for Georgia’s next chapter.

Game Changers Magazine will continue following this race closely.