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Georgia Dem gubernatorial nominee blasted for disturbing ‘full embrace of radicals’ who bashed Trump supporters as ‘roaches’ and heaped praise on notorious anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan
Georgia Democratic gubernatorial nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms has faced criticism for appearing at campaign events with pastor Jamal Bryant. Republican critics say his past remarks and associations could hurt her campaign, while Bryant has spoken at rallies, including one featuring Barack Obama.
Bryant compared Trump administration figures and MAGA supporters to cockroaches in a 2025 Easter sermon and previously praised Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, whose record includes antisemitic statements. Bryant also organised a 40-day boycott of Target over changes to its diversity initiatives, donated $5,000 to Bottoms’ leadership PAC in October and joined her at recent events.
In short
- Bottoms is criticised for campaigning with pastor Jamal Bryant.
- Bryant likened MAGA supporters to cockroaches in a sermon.
- He has also praised Louis Farrakhan.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Critics can argue that a gubernatorial nominee’s close public association with a prominent pastor who has used dehumanising language about political opponents and praised Farrakhan risks legitimising rhetoric that alienates voters and harms trust across communities. They may see scrutiny of the relationship as a fair test of Bottoms’ judgement, particularly given Bryant’s recent campaign appearances and financial support.
The case against
Supporters can argue that appearing with a pastor who has spoken at rallies attended by figures such as Barack Obama does not mean Bottoms endorses every past statement or association, and that political figures should be judged on their own words and actions. They may also view attacks focused on Bryant’s record as an effort to turn guilt by association into a campaign issue, rather than engage with Bottoms’ policies or the context of her relationship with him.
Explained simply
Keisha Lance Bottoms, a Democrat and former mayor of Atlanta, is running for governor of Georgia. Jamal Bryant is a pastor who has appeared with her at campaign events and donated to her political committee.
Bryant has drawn criticism for comparing Trump administration figures and MAGA supporters to cockroaches in a sermon, and for praising Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, who has made antisemitic statements. Republican critics say Bryant’s presence could affect Bottoms’ campaign, making their association a point of political dispute.
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