Georgia state Sen. John F. Kennedy, R-Macon, resigned from his position to focus on his campaign for lieutenant governor. Credit: Georgia General Assembly website.

Georgia Sen. John F. Kennedy resigns to focus on lieutenant governor campaign

Georgia state Sen. John F. Kennedy, R-Macon, announced Tuesday he is resigning from the Legislature to focus on his campaign for lieutenant governor.

“When Susan and I decided to announce my campaign for lieutenant governor, we knew this race would take our full focus and commitment because that’s what the people of our state deserve,” Kennedy said. “It is clear to me that continuing my service in the state senate while also running for lieutenant governor would be a disservice to both my constituents and the thousands of hardworking Georgians who have pledged their support for our vision for this state.”

Kennedy announced his candidacy for lieutenant governor in June, less than a month before current Lt. Gov. Burt Jones announced his candidacy for governor.

The Georgia secretary of state’s office has already announced a special election to replace Kennedy in District 18, which covers Crawford, Monroe, Peach, Upson, and portions of Bibb and Houston counties. Here are the dates to keep in mind:

• Qualifying begins Dec. 15
• Last day to register to vote: Dec. 22
• Early voting begins Dec. 29
• Election Day: Jan. 20, 2026
• Runoff election, if needed: Feb. 17, 2026

Kennedy was first elected to the Middle Georgia district in 2014 and has served as the Senate president pro tempore.