Savannah will take center stage in Georgia politics on Thursday, January 8, 2026, as the Democratic Party of Chatham County hosts the Georgia Democratic Gubernatorial Forum, the first major forum of the year to bring together Democratic candidates seeking Georgia’s highest office.

Airing live on WJCL 22 (ABC) from Jonesville Baptist Church, the forum offers voters across Coastal Georgia a rare opportunity to hear directly from the full Democratic field in a substantive, issue-focused setting at the outset of the 2026 election cycle.

Moderated by Greg Coy, WJCL 22 News Anchor, the forum is designed to prioritize governance, leadership, and vision, not theatrics. Candidates will address critical issues facing Georgia, including housing affordability, workforce development, healthcare access, economic growth, and governing the state amid evolving federal dynamics.

“This forum is about giving voters real access to the people who want to lead Georgia,” said Orlando Scott, Communications Chair for the Democratic Party of Chatham County. “By hosting this event in Savannah and broadcasting it live, we are making it clear that Coastal Georgia’s voices, concerns, and priorities matter in this race.”

The live television broadcast will reach tens of thousands of households across the region, with additional community-sourced questions featured immediately following the broadcast on WJCL’s digital platforms. This structure ensures that candidates’ closing statements reach the widest possible audience, while also creating space for deeper engagement with local voter concerns.

Savannah’s role as host underscores the city’s growing importance as a civic and political hub outside Metro Atlanta. As the largest Democratic electorate in Coastal Georgia, the region plays a critical role in shaping statewide outcomes, yet is often underrepresented in early campaign conversations.

The forum is part of the Savannah Debate Series, a multi-stage initiative bringing gubernatorial candidates directly to voters ahead of the 2026 election. The series emphasizes transparency, accessibility, and civic education, reinforcing Savannah’s longstanding reputation as a place where serious public dialogue happens.

Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the forum beginning at 6:30 PM. Attendance is free and open to the public, with advance RSVP encouraged due to limited seating.

For more information, media inquiries, or credential requests, contact Orlando Scott at [email protected].