Keisha Lance Bottoms names housing, health costs top priorities as Georgia governor-elect

Keisha Lance Bottoms has outlined housing affordability, healthcare costs, and the rising cost of living as her primary objectives for the state of Georgia.

The governor-elect shared these details during an interview with Rickey Smiley, Gary, and Special K. She said she intends to expand and fully fund a statewide affordable housing trust fund. The proposal is modeled after a program she established while serving as the mayor of Atlanta. The fund would provide rental assistance, down payment assistance, and support for affordable housing construction.

Bottoms stated that the goal is to ensure residents are housed with dignity. She described housing and healthcare as major priorities for her administration as she prepares to take office.

The governor-elect also recounted the events of election night. She said she was focused on writing her victory speech and listening to gospel music through her earbuds. She did not see the initial broadcast of the race being called to her. Her husband interrupted her work by throwing a pillow to get her attention.

According to Bottoms, her husband told her the race had been called. She initially asked which race he meant. Her son Langston then entered the room to confirm the victory. Bottoms said she had expected the night to be longer and was still finalizing her remarks when her family informed her of the result.

Bottoms credited her family of 32 years with keeping her grounded. She noted that her four children helped her connect with younger voters. She said listening to their perspectives taught her to listen more and speak less. She believes this approach helped her campaign resonate with voters aged 18 to 24.

The governor-elect discussed her relationship with outgoing Governor Brian Kemp. She described their personal relationship as pleasant despite political differences. She welcomed his decision not to call a special legislative session to redraw political districts. She also noted his decision not to limit the powers of the incoming governor.

Bottoms reflected on a visit to her childhood church the day before the election. She discovered the grave of her great-great-grandmother, Betsy Peek. Peek was born in 1845, before the end of slavery. Bottoms said finding the grave reminded her of the generations who preceded her. She described the moment as a sign that she was standing on strong shoulders.

The interview also touched on her late father, Major Lance. The Grammy-nominated singer encouraged her to aim high and never fear asking for an opportunity. Bottoms said his example taught her the value of humility, kindness, and giving others a chance.

Bottoms concluded by expressing pride in Georgia’s voters. She said the state understood the assignment. She added that the excitement of election night must now turn into meaningful work for the state.