“I’m not a career politician — I’m a mom, a doctor, a business owner”: Married to Medicine’s Dr. Heavenly Kimes launches fiery campaign for Georgia State Representative as she trades reality TV for real power - suong

Dr. Heavenly Kimes is going from patients to politics as she seeks to add her name on the list of those who have made the leap from reality TV to elected office.

The Married to Medicine star — a cosmetic dentist, entrepreneur and longtime community advocate — is officially announcing her candidacy on the Democratic ticket for Georgia State Representative in District 93, PEOPLE can exclusively reveal.

"I'm not a career politician. I’m a mom, a doctor, a business owner — and I’m not afraid to stand up for what I believe in," Kimes, 54, says in a statement. "I’m running to serve, and I’m ready to work."

Kimes will kick off her campaign with a community rally Tuesday, July 8 at 5 p.m. outside the Georgia State Capitol in downtown Atlanta. The event is open to the public, and supporters — per a press release — are encouraged to show up in their "Dr. Heavenly for Georgia" T-shirts and "bring their energy for an unforgettable moment in Atlanta history."

Her campaign, Kimes notes, will focus on healthcare access, economic prosperity, education reform and small business support — issues she says she’s passionate about after years of working on the ground with patients and entrepreneurs.

"I’ve spent my life helping people build confidence, start businesses, and take control of their futures," she says. "Now I’m bringing that same passion to the State Capitol. District 93 deserves someone who’s not just talking, but doing."

Bravo viewers first met Kimes on season 2 of Married to Medicine. She's been a mainstay on the series ever since, her no-nonsense candor making her a fan-favorite.

Off-camera, she owns multiple dental practices and has mentored aspiring professionals through her Dr. Heavenly University platform.

"Our people deserve real representation, someone who understands both the struggles and the solutions," Kimes says.Bravo fans know, Kimes is not the first star on the network to dip her toe in the political sphere. Real Housewives of New York City friend Barbara Kavovit famously ran for N.Y.C. mayor back in 2021, while Southern Charm alum Thomas Ravenel — a former South Carolina’s treasurer — announced earlier this year that he plans on entering the race for Governor of South Carolina in 2026.

Cameras are currently up on season 12 of Married to Medicine.

It remains to be seen how much of Kimes' journey will be covered, but she has the support of at least one of her costars. Quad Webb is serving as her campaign manager.

Those interested can donate directly to Kimes' campaign. To learn more, get involved, or volunteer, visit DrHeavenlyForGeorgia.com.