State Representative Derrick Jackson says his career path has prepared him for his run for Georgia’s Lieutenant Governor. A Tyrone Democrat representing District 64 in parts of Fulton and Fayette counties, Jackson got into the race early, announcing his intent to seek the office back in April.
A Navy veteran, Jackson says in a video announcement that he wants to work towards a Georgia “where everyone has full access to the American dream” and toward a state that provides “affordable and convenient access” to health care for all.
State Rep. Derrick Jackson
“While we are the Number 1 state in the country to do business, we have to ask if we are the Number 1 state in the country for the people,” Jackson says in the YouTube video.
Jackson touts the experience he brings to the table in his qualifications for Lt. Governor, According to his campaign, he is a 22-year military officer veteran (U.S. Navy), corporate general manager, Adjunct Professor, entrepreneur, non-profit Board Member, and a leader in the community “that is known for his determination, enthusiasm, keen work ethics, integrity, and a strong commitment to serve his constituents.”
He lists public health and public education among his many issues.
“Georgia is currently ranked 43rd in the nation for healthcare and even lower for women’s health,” Jackson says in his campaign materials. “We can and must do better. Georgians deserve quality medical care that they can afford, and our hospitals deserve the resources to provide that care. It is imperative that healthcare be considered a human right in our state in order to improve the quality of life for all of us.”
He goes on to point to Georgia’s ranking in public education. “Our children are our future, and they deserve an education system that centers them. U.S. News ranks Georgia at 26th in education, but we can do better. With more resource equity, educator preparation, and education reform, Georgia can provide high quality education to our students whether it comes from a public school or private school.”
He lists a number of other issues that he is focusing on, including justice, technology, the economy, the military, mental health and infrastructure.
Jackson spent nearly 7 years at General Electric (GE) as the Senior Marketing Manager for the Industrial Growth Vertical & Business Development, where he says he was influential in identifying $1 billion global market opportunities and managing global strategic partnerships.
