Gov. Nathan Deal and his Democratic opponent, state Sen. Jason Carter, traded barbs Friday morning over their education plans in separate speeches before a group of education administrators and advocates.

Carter, who spoke first to the Georgia Education Leadership Institute, highlighted one of the constant themes of his campaign: creating an education budget he says would not be touched. He has complained that Deal has not adequately funded education. Carter warned the audience not to believe Deal's "election year lip service" of future additional help for state education.

Deal, the Republican incumbent, told the group in his speech that he would consider giving credit to students who learn computer language, saying he's talked to people who believe mastering that language is akin to learning a foreign language. The governor said learning those skills helps students get high-paying jobs and will improve graduation rates.

Deal listed his education accomplishments and told the audience he would not use them “as a political football,” an apparent jab at Carter.

Both candidates spoke at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Views of the exterior of Druid Hills High School in Atlanta shown on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. In the plan approved by the DeKalb County school board on Monday, everything but the main building, pictured here, will be demolished in favor of a new school building. (Natrice Miller/ AJC)

Credit: Natrice Miller

Featured

Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez