Jonathan Bonner
From Ballotpedia
Jonathan Bonner (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent Georgia's 13th Congressional District. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Bonner completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Jonathan Bonner was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Sandy Creek High School. He attended the Georgia Military College. His career experience includes working as a project manager.[1]
Bonner has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- Democratic Party of Georgia
- Democratic Party of Fayette County
- Democratic Party of Clayton County
- Democratic Party of Henry County
- Democratic Party of Snelleville
- Democratic Party of Gwinnett
- Democratic Party of Rockdale
- Democratic Party of Newton
- Knights Of Columbus
Elections
2026
See also: Georgia's 13th Congressional District election, 2026
Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.
General election
The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.
General election for U.S. House Georgia District 13
The following candidates are running in the general election for U.S. House Georgia District 13 on November 3, 2026.
Candidate | ||
 | David Scott (D) | |
 | Everton Blair Jr. (D) | |
 | Jonathan Bonner (D)  | |
 | Jasmine Clark (D) | |
 | Emanuel Jones (D) | |
| Heavenly Kimes (D) | ||
 | Joe Lester (D) | |
 | Ronald McKenzie (D) | |
 | Carlos Moore (D) | |
| Pierre Whatley (D) | ||
| Peter Bourne (R) | ||
 | Simeon Nunnally (R) | |
| ||||
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Endorsements
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Campaign themes
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Jonathan Bonner completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Bonner's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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As a single father to my 9 year old son and caregiver to my disabled father—a veteran living with early-onset dementia—I understand firsthand the challenges many families face. I come from a family rooted in service: my mother dedicated over 35 years as a federal worker, and my sister serves as an educator in a Title 1 school, helping students who need support the most. I’m running for Congress not for fame, wealth, or power, but to create real, lasting change for those who need it most—my family, my neighbors, and our community.
- I will fight for better healthcare, mental health services, and increased support for all veterans and their caregivers And no cuts to Social Security Medicare and Medicaid.
- I’m fighting to bring good-paying job opportunities that create lasting economic security for working families. By investing in American industries, small businesses, and workforce development, we can build a stronger economy that works for everyone—not just the wealthy few.
- I believe politicians should be open, honest, and accessible to the people they serve. As your Congressman, I’ll always communicate clearly and keep you informed about the decisions that affect your daily life. From active social media updates to regular town halls at local businesses, I’m committed to making sure your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed.
I’m passionate about public policies that improve the lives of working families and protect those who’ve served our country. That includes making healthcare affordable, creating strong, good-paying jobs, and fully funding the Department of Education to give our children a better future. I support tax cuts and credits for families with children and for first-time homebuyers striving for stability. I will fight to protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid from cuts. I also believe in honoring our veterans with the support they deserve and standing up against unfair firings of dedicated federal employees who keep our country running every day.
I look up to my mother—she’s one of the strongest and most selfless people I’ve ever known. She worked hard every single day, balancing the responsibilities of being a mother while staying deeply involved in the community. From leading Girl Scouts to volunteering for neighborhood cleanups, teaching Sunday school she never backed down from a challenge. After working 10-hour shifts, she’d still come home, cook dinner, work in the yard, and open our doors to family, neighbors, and anyone in need. She taught me that real strength isn’t just physical—it’s mental, emotional, and rooted in service to others. Her example is the foundation of who I am, and the kind of leader I strive to be.
The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels by Jon Meacham
The most important qualities in an elected official are honesty, transparency, and accessibility. Politicians should be open with the people they serve, clearly communicate, and always be present to listen and respond. I also believe elected officials should not be allowed to buy or sell individual stocks while in office—public service should never be a path to personal profit. Just as importantly, I will not take donations from big corporations or powerful lobbyists. I believe in being true to my word and fighting tooth and nail for the people—not special interests. I'm here to serve my constituents, not corporate agendas.
I believe my resilience, compassion, and deep connection to the community are what make me a strong candidate for public office. Growing up watching my mother and father work tirelessly for our family and community taught me the importance of dedication, empathy, and service. I’ve carried those values with me through every stage of life—whether it’s being a single father, a caregiver to my disabled veteran father, or someone who’s lived the real struggles so many Americans face every day. I know what it means to struggle, to sacrifice, and to fight for something better. I bring heart, lived experience, and an unshakable commitment to lifting up the people I represent. That’s the kind of leadership we need in office.
The core responsibility of someone elected to this office is to truly listen to their constituents and always vote in their best interest—not for personal gain or political favors. It’s about being a voice for the people, not a career politician. I believe a member of Congress should champion policies that improve lives not only at the federal level but also support and uplift state and local efforts to create real, unified progress. Most importantly, they should be an active member of the community they serve—present, engaged, and always working to build trust and deliver results.
I want to leave a legacy of real, lasting change—a legacy where my son and future generations can look back and see the fruits of my labor, not just in our district, but across the country. I want to plant seeds of progress that inspire others to lead, especially young people, and show them that leadership doesn’t belong to the elite—it belongs to those who care enough to fight for others. I want people to believe again—that their vote matters, that their leaders care, and that real change is possible.
I envision a future where no one has to check their bank account before filling up their gas tank or putting food on the table. A future where no one goes bankrupt because of a medical emergency. I want our country to thrive economically, to be respected by our allies, and trusted once again on the global stage. And I believe the wealthiest among us—big corporations and the top 1%—should pay their fair share to help build a stronger, fairer America. That’s the legacy I want to leave: a legacy of hope, equity, and a government that truly works for the people.
I envision a future where no one has to check their bank account before filling up their gas tank or putting food on the table. A future where no one goes bankrupt because of a medical emergency. I want our country to thrive economically, to be respected by our allies, and trusted once again on the global stage. And I believe the wealthiest among us—big corporations and the top 1%—should pay their fair share to help build a stronger, fairer America. That’s the legacy I want to leave: a legacy of hope, equity, and a government that truly works for the people.
The first historical event I remember in my lifetime was 9/11. I was just 6 years old, but I’ll never forget the fear and confusion of watching the attacks on TV in school—seeing Americans lose their lives in real time. It was one of the saddest days of my life. But what stands out just as much is how our country responded. In the face of tragedy, Americans came together like never before. There was a sense of unity, resilience, and compassion that showed the true strength of our nation. It was a powerful moment that shaped my understanding of what it means to be an American.
My very first job was at Panera Bread. I started working there when I was 16 and stayed until I was 19. It taught me the value of hard work, showing up on time, and treating every customer with respect—lessons that have stayed with me ever since and continue to shape how I serve my community today.
My favorite book is Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. It’s more than just a book—it’s a mindset. Goggins’ story of pushing past pain, fear, and self-doubt to become the best version of himself really spoke to me. His resilience, discipline, and refusal to let life’s challenges define him reminded me that our greatest battles are often within ourselves. It inspired me to embrace discomfort, face my struggles head-on, and keep moving forward no matter how hard things get. That kind of mental toughness is something I carry with me every day.
If I could be any fictional character, I’d choose Goku from Dragon Ball Z. He’s the perfect mix of strength, heart, and humility. No matter how tough the battle, he never gives up—and he’s always pushing himself to be better, not just for himself, but to protect the people he cares about. Plus, who wouldn’t want to go Super Saiyan and fly around the world?
I have a really eclectic taste in music—I listen to everything under the sun, from Johnny Cash and Frank Sinatra to OutKast, Beyoncé, and Zach Bryan. So it’s not uncommon for my playlists to jump genres pretty fast. But the last song that got stuck in my head was “Overtime” by Zach Bryan. Something about the raw emotion in his lyrics and the storytelling just hits home. Music like that sticks with you.
One of the biggest struggles in my life was finding my purpose. I’ve always cared deeply about people, but for a long time, I held myself back from stepping into leadership roles. I didn’t feel qualified enough, and I was afraid to speak up, even when I knew something needed to be said or done. That changed when I came across Isaiah 6:8:” Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” That verse lit a fire in me—it reminded me that leadership isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being willing to serve. It gave me the courage to stop doubting myself and start using my voice for others. We all face struggles, but it’s how we respond to them that defines us. I chose to rise—and now I’m ready to help others do the same.
The U.S. House of Representatives is unique because it’s the closest governing body to the people. With shorter terms and smaller districts, Representatives are expected to be deeply connected to their communities and responsive to their constituents’ needs. The House reflects the diversity and voices of everyday Americans in real time, making it a powerful engine for change and accountability. Its structure allows for swift action on pressing issues, and its composition is meant to evolve with the people it serves. That direct link to the public is what makes the House truly the "People’s House."
I don’t believe previous experience in government or politics is a requirement to be an effective representative. The common man or woman—someone who has been active in their community, helping others, and understanding real-life struggles—is just as qualified to lead as a lifelong politician. You can teach someone how to navigate the system, but you can’t teach genuine care, integrity, or lived experience. If a career politician isn’t present or active in the community they claim to represent, that speaks volumes about their priorities. What matters most is a heart for service and a commitment to fighting for the people.
One of the greatest challenges the United States will face in the next decade is rebuilding trust—both at home and abroad. We must regain the confidence of our allies by leading with integrity and consistency on the global stage. At the same time, we need to restore faith within our own borders by ensuring the government truly works for the people. That means revitalizing our economy in a way that empowers the middle class, supports small businesses, and creates real opportunities for working families. When trust is restored—both internationally and domestically—we can begin to heal, grow, and move forward together.
Yes, I believe two years is the right term length for representatives. It creates a sense of urgency and accountability. In those two years, a representative should clearly establish what they stand for, what they’re fighting to achieve, and—most importantly—demonstrate that they are present and engaged in the community they serve. It keeps the connection between the people and their elected leaders strong and allows voters to decide quickly whether their representative is truly working for them.
I believe in term limits. Public service should never be about holding onto power—it should be about making a difference while you have the opportunity. I have no interest in being a lifetime politician. I’m here to help create real change, uplift communities, and then pass the torch to the next generation of leaders. Term limits encourage fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and true representation that reflects the people we serve. Our government works best when it evolves with the people—not when it’s controlled by the same few for decades.
Yes, I deeply admire and strive to model myself after Congressman John Lewis. He was a true servant of the people—fearless, compassionate, and unwavering in his fight for justice, equality, and human dignity. John Lewis believed in getting into “GOOD TROUBLE ” to create necessary change, and he never stopped standing up for what was right, even when it wasn’t easy. Like him, I believe in leading with integrity, staying rooted in the community, and using my voice to uplift those who often go unheard. His legacy is a powerful reminder of what public service is truly about.
I don’t just hear these stories—I live them. I am those stories. Every policy that’s debated in Washington has touched my life and the lives of those I love. I’m a single father to a 9-year-old son who may not have the school accommodations he needs because of underfunded education systems. I’m the caregiver to my father, a disabled veteran who relies on Social Security and Medicare. I’ve watched my mother, a federal worker, see her closest friends lose their jobs. My sister, a dedicated teacher, struggles to give her students everything they deserve due to lack of resources. Like many people my age, I’ve seen friends from 21 to 35 priced out of the dream of homeownership, and I’ve watched loved ones skip life-saving medical care because they simply couldn’t afford it. I don’t need to be told what’s wrong—I live it every day. That’s why I’m running. I am the voice of my community, and I’m bringing our lived experiences to the halls of Congress.
I’m a big fan of dad jokes—fitting, since I’m a dad myself. One of my favorites that I always tell my son is:
“Why don’t skeletons fight each other?”
I believe compromise can be a powerful tool when it moves us in a positive direction and delivers real results for the people. However, I also believe there are core values—like protecting healthcare, Social Security, and equal rights—that should never be compromised. I grew up in a community where Democrats and Republicans worked together to build something great for everyone, and I carry that same mindset with me. In Congress, I’ll work alongside my Republican colleagues where we can find common ground, but I’ll never back down when it comes to standing up for what’s right and fighting for the people I represent.
As a member of the House, I would take the responsibility of originating revenue bills seriously, because these decisions directly impact the lives of everyday Americans. If elected, I would make it a priority to communicate clearly with my constituents—explaining our plan, how it affects them, and the real benefits it can bring to their lives. I believe transparency is key, and no financial decision should be made without the people understanding and having a voice in it. I would also work hard to bring both sides of the aisle together to craft revenue policies that are fair, responsible, and focused on helping working families—not just the wealthy few.
The U.S. House should use its investigative powers to hold power accountable—period. That means regularly holding hearings and conducting oversight of wealthy corporations, the top 1%, and any agencies that receive taxpayer dollars or federal contracts. We must ensure they are not abusing the system, wasting public funds, or taking advantage of the American people. These investigations should focus on issues that truly impact everyday lives—healthcare, housing, education, wages, and more. Most importantly, the findings should be clearly and transparently reported back to the public. The people deserve to know where their money is going and who is benefiting from it.
The most important endorsement I’ve received is from the people—and that’s the only one that truly matters to me. I’m not backed by big corporations or powerful lobbyists. I’m backed by hardworking parents, veterans, teachers, small business owners, and everyday Americans who want to see real change. This campaign is built by the community, for the community—and that’s the endorsement I’m proud to carry every single day.
1. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability
Why: The importance of government transparency, financial accountability, and rebuilding trust. This committee investigates waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in the federal government.
2. House Committee on Energy and Commerce
Why: This oversees healthcare policy, economic development, technology, and consumer protections—I would be able advocate for affordable healthcare and economic opportunity.
3. House Committee on Education and the Workforce
Why: Keeping the Department of Education strong, funding public schools, and preparing the next generation for success. This committee would allow me to oversees education, labor, and workforce issues.
4. House Committee on Veterans' Affairs
Why: Aiding veterans and ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. This committee would let me advocate directly for those who’ve served.
5. House Committee on Ways and Means
I believe financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable. The American people deserve to know exactly how their tax dollars are being spent—and that information should be easily accessible and understandable. Politicians should be fully transparent about their finances and campaign donations, and every dollar should go toward serving the public, not lining pockets or being wasted on unnecessary spending. Trust in government starts with honesty, and I’m committed to making sure every cent is accounted for and used where it’s truly needed.
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Campaign finance summary
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See also
2026 Elections
External links
Footnotes
Senators
Jon Ossoff (D)
Raphael Warnock (D)
Representatives
District 1
Earl Carter (R)
District 2
Sanford Bishop (D)
District 3
Brian Jack (R)
District 4
Hank Johnson (D)
District 5
Nikema Williams (D)
District 6
Lucy McBath (D)
District 7
Rich McCormick (R)
District 8
Austin Scott (R)
District 9
Andrew Clyde (R)
District 10
Mike Collins (R)
District 11
Barry Loudermilk (R)
District 12
Rick Allen (R)
District 13
David Scott (D)
District 14
Marjorie Greene (R)
Republican Party (9)
Democratic Party (7)
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