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Georgia's Republican primary runoffs are over, but the political consequences are only beginning. Scot Turner and Buzz Brockway break down Rick Jackson's win in the Georgia governor's race, what Brian Kemp's late endorsement of Burt Jones did to the final vote, and why the Georgia Republican Party now has some work to do before November. They also look at Mike Collins's Senate victory, Donald Trump's endorsement, Greg Dolezal, Tim Fleming, and what the new Republican ticket means for Jon Ossoff, Keisha Lance Bottoms, and the statewide races ahead. Then, the conversation turns to the Georgia General Assembly's special session: SB 189, the QR-code voting deadline, election administration, and why redistricting did not become part of the agenda. Finally, Scot makes the case that Georgia's runoff system encourages expensive, divisive campaigns and explains why ranked-choice voting would change the incentives for candidates and voters alike. In this episode: Rick Jackson, Burt Jones, Brian Kemp, and the Georgia governor's race Mike Collins, Jon Ossoff, and Georgia's U.S. Senate race Georgia GOP unity after a bruising runoff Greg Dolezal, Tim Fleming, and the down-ballot results SB 189, QR codes, and Georgia election administration Why redistricting is not happening The case against Georgia's runoff system Peach Pundit Podcast is Georgia's conversation about politics, elections, public policy, campaigns, and the people shaping the Peach State.
Georgia GOP lawmakers say no to redistricting session; Tracking 2026 women gubernatorial candidates in Minnesota and nationwide; Georgia libraries are community hubs, but funding fights persist; Activists plan a 'Day of Solidarity' to examine U.S.-Mexico trade policies.
Kimmer & Pete questions why Governor Brian Kemp and Burt Jones have yet to publicly rally behind the nominee. Is this just a delay, or does it reveal deeper fractures within the Georgia Republican Party? With Keisha Lance Bottoms waiting in the wings, can Republicans unite and build momentum, or are they repeating past mistakes?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Greg Bluestein hosts a special edition of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Politically Georgia podcast with Tia Mitchell and Patricia Murphy after Georgia's primary runoff elections delivered two major Republican verdicts. Rick Jackson defeated Lt. Gov. Burt Jones in the GOP race for governor despite late support from Donald Trump and Brian Kemp, while Mike Collins beat Derek Dooley in the Senate runoff after Trump backed Collins and Kemp helped build Dooley's campaign. The episode looks at what the results say about Kemp's political machine, Trump's uneven influence, Republican unity and the general election fights ahead against Keisha Lance Bottoms and Jon Ossoff. Greg, Tia and Patricia also break down key down-ballot races and the uncertain future of redistricting in a special legislative session. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My conversation today was heard by hundreds or thousands on Georgia NOW & Progressive Voices, but truly, it was meant for an audience of one - former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, who's now the Democratic Party nominee for Governor of Georgia.MARTA's a PR disaster. A ghoulish, murderous stabbing of a grandmother. New trains (again) delayed prior to the FIFA World Cup. "More MARTA" underwhelming the voters that supported it.The Atlanta Beltline is falling further and further from its intention to alleviate in-city gridlock and offer easier mobility from Atlanta's historic neighborhoods as resistance to the rail element continues to build clout. Why not take a page from the Georgia GOP, circa 2020-21, and call for a state takeover of MARTA the way they salivated over wresting the airport from the city? As Atlanta's former mayor, you have your fingerprints on the Beltline project and can't possibly agree with Cox Enterprises CEO Alex Taylor who's joined the NIMBYs and Eastside trail business folks who now don't want the crucial rail element at all anymore, now, can you? Transit ... mobility ... not just for Atlanta in-city, but the metropolitan area and - dare I say - the state (that's home to the world's busiest airport and has feeder airports inexplicably flying people in small numbers at exorbitant fares) should be a top-of-mind conversation for an aspirational gubernatorial candidate. Heck, talk Delta into a public-private partnership. There's precedence for this in Canada. It makes good business sense for Delta, because it clearly did so for Air Canada, too. While the two GOP candidates try to out "tax cut" one another while also slinging mud to and fro, wouldn't be refreshing for the Democratic gubernatorial candidate to counter with something vastly more impactful?I mean a $1000 break here or there is fine, I guess. Not life changing. Reducing commute times, an affordable, swift means to connect to the world's busiest airport from Athens, Augusta, Columbus, Macon & Savannah - all of which makes it viable for people to live just about wherever they want in the state where they can find more affordable housing; that's what would positively impact the lives of so many Georgians.Mrs. Bottoms, you should pronounce to voters that you'll be governor who connects the state. Be the "mobility governor."It's there waiting for someone to grasp. Grasp it.
It's now abundantly clear that not only are the Georgia Republican Party's two Senate options of poor candidate quality with mid-20th century 'Jim Crow' vision, they're corrupt. Even worse for the Georgia GOP, they're golden boy - governor Brian Kemp - has been pulled into the woodchipper and exposed as well. With good local journalism disappearing - even in major hubs like Atlanta - it's important to pay attention to when it's still covering stories like these. The whole "Dooley-Kemp-other Dooley money funnel" story brought to light last week by WXIA-TV's Doug Richards was actually touched on in a Substack piece by Georgia Politics & Polling (no author named). Still, hat-tip!That sullies the already mediocre shine on the campaign of failed football coach Derek Dooley, son of UGA football legend Vince. It's also tarnished the perception that Brian Kemp is an unblemished 'rising star' with 2028 aspirations. Rep. Mike Collins, however, has long seemed to have issues with the company he keeps - notably his chief staffer and campaign manager Brandon Phillips. If Brandon's not making repulsive statements about rape victims being "sloppy seconds," he's making sure his girlfriend gets paid via taxpayer dollars through an internship where she did nothing. Then there's another staffer - Kip Talley - working double-time to free a Holocaust-denier - and bragging he'd do so in a group chat.A whole lot of 'ick' on that run-off ballot.- - - Speaking of run-offs, I'd opted not to weigh in on Georgia Democratic run-offs because I don't see bad options; but the lieutenant governor's race calls for commentary. Listen, I've no issues with ambition, but former Senator Nabilah Parkes put hers above her constituents, and her debate performance did little to make her look as a) a superior choice or b) a likable candidate (and she's a likable person, so that's baffling). Leaving your post is one thing; leaving the middle of a General Assembly session is another. Trying to explain that your absence means nothing because the other side is the majority and will ram new maps through anyway smacks of 'defeatism' and her opponent, state Senator Josh McLaurin is right to point that out.
LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watchdog-on-wall-street-with-chris-markowski/id570687608 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2PtgPvJvqc2gkpGIkNMR5i WATCH and SUBSCRIBE on:https://www.youtube.com/@WatchdogOnWallstreet/featured A major Georgia Republican insider is accused of running a $140 million Ponzi scheme through First Liberty Building and Loan, promising high returns while allegedly diverting investor funds to luxury spending, political donations, and personal expenses. The case highlights “affinity fraud” tactics targeting faith-based and conservative investors, raising new concerns about trust, politics, and financial exploitation.
The second hour of the April 21, 2026, broadcast focused on internal party friction and major national security breakthroughs. It opened with Randy Jones discussing the Anderson County GOP's decision to censure Representative Don Chapman, followed by a look at the Back to Basics Breakfast and the growing ideological divide between the South Carolina and Georgia GOP leadership and grassroots activists. The show then broke major news that President Trump had successfully negotiated an extension of the Iran ceasefire, providing a critical diplomatic window before the midnight deadline. The hour concluded with Congressman William Timmons joining the program to discuss the looming government shutdown and the House's strategy to navigate the current budgetary standoff.
In the second segment of Hour 2 on April 21, 2026, The Charlie James Show focused on the Back to Basics Breakfast, a grassroots initiative aimed at refocusing the South Carolina and Georgia GOP on core conservative principles. James explored the internal friction within the state parties, specifically contrasting the traditional leadership with the rising influence of the Freedom Caucus and local precinct movements. The discussion highlighted how these "Back to Basics" events are serving as a platform for activists to demand legislative accountability and a return to strict constitutional governance ahead of the June primaries.
Rod and Karen banter about cashiers, a microwave PSA, Invincible, glowing tires and taking a picture of a family at the Hornets game. Then they discuss John Fetterman's political shift draws ire of Pennsylvania Democrat, Franklin Graham wrote letter to Trump to tell him he’s going to heaven, a woman at a No Kings March gets interviewed, With their candidates losing in metro Atlanta, Georgia GOP seeks to remove party labels, GOP Senate Candidate Urges People to Be 'Patriots' About Trump's War and 'Take 1 Less Trip to Starbucks' to Offset Rising Costs, Mark Robinson admits ‘I lied’ about CNN story, Displeased White House intervenes as Bill Maher announced as Kennedy Center prize-winner, Judge admonished for making racially insensitive remarks to Black defendant, Ku Klux Klan items are found as Mississippi Department of Public Safety packs to move, Destination Smokehouse owner puts out video, Man repeatedly 'brake-checked' other driver before fatal road rage shooting: Police, Man assaulted Whataburger manager, later flooded Northeast Texas city jail and sword ratchetness. Podjam 3 Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/podjam3 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theblackguywhotips Twitter: @rodimusprime @SayDatAgain @TBGWT Instagram: @TheBlackGuyWhoTips Email: theblackguywhotips@gmail.com Blog: www.theblackguywhotips.com Teepublic Store- https://the-black-guy-who-tips-podcast.dashery.com/ Amazon Wishlist – https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1PDD9JUQUNVY5?ref_=wl_share Crowdcast – https://www.crowdcast.io/theblackguywhotips Voicemail: (980) 500-9034Go Premium: https://www.theblackguywhotips.com/premium/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As wildfires have been ravaging South Georgia for more than two weeks, the Georgia Forestry Commission is actively updating residents. Newsweek reminding us that post-Helene tinder beds and a current and prolonged drought made conditions "favorable" for wildfire activity. - - - Onto the political headlines: the attack on the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), as Twitter/X trolls (led by Elon Musk) are pushing vapid disinformation about a DOJ/FBI case lacking any substantive evidence. It was Nashville TV reporter Phil Williams who took to Substack to exclaim: "it's almost as if the people most excited by the indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center have not read the indictment--or they really don't care." Oh for sure.Focus on the bigger picture, though:1. You have Trump wanting to undo the 2020 election (how does one do this in 2026?) 2. while he and his minions concoct theories of foreign adversarial tinkering with Dominion voting machines (that coming up empty with their investigations) 3. which led to the seizure of Fulton County ballots three months ago with no "there there" for them to make noise about To review: the Trump 2020 "big lie" yarn keeps spawning investigations and seizures and coming up empty, but his administration keeps expending resources to find a hint or whiff of SOMETHING to cling to while seeding doubt of the American electoral process as a 2026 midterm that looks increasingly dour for MAGA and the GOP looms.- - - Meanwhile, in Georgia, the Fighting 50 Pac backs Rebecca Sims for Georgia's House 32nd district, and for good reason. Hear my introduction to her and come away as encouraged as I am that she's going to make a difference - even if it's just to bring more voters for her "up-ballot" Democrats. - - - Back to election chaos: in Georgia, Georgia Recorder columnist Jay Bookman believes chaos is a "policy choice." In the piece, he points to fake elector + current Lt. Governor (and GOP gubernatorial candidate) Burt Jones, who both seated "election fabulist" Salleigh Grubbs to the state election board - to which I'll add that Jones' keeping Trump's endorsement may lie with Jones having plenty of dirt on Donald and might talk if Trump were to read polling trends and jump onto the Rick Jackson bandwagon just to look like he's picked a winner. - - - Oh, and Friday Ron Show means "Friday funnies" with my good friend, comedian and satirist Sterling Thrill.
3.4.2026 #RolandMartinUnfiltered: Iran War Escalates. Robin Kelly Eyes Durbin Seat. Georgia GOP Racist Ad. Talarico Defeats Crockett As Operation Epic Fury enters its fourth day, tensions continue to rise in the war between Israel and Iran -- and the United States. Retired Army Lieutenant General Russel Honore and Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly be here to discuss this war. Representative Kelly will also discuss her desire to replace Senator Dick Durbin. More on blatant racism in America from MAGA Republicans. Georgia Republican State Senator Greg Dolezal is under fire for posting a racist ad. We'll talk to the Democratic Senate Minority Leader, who called him out for his Racist 'Sharia law' video. The city of Atlanta is being described as a tale of two cities. The Co-Founder and CEO of The Gathering Spot, Ryan Wilson, will join us to talk about why a seven-mile difference in Atlanta can mean a 20-year gap in life expectancy -- and what Atlanta's Mayor plans to do about it. Download the Black Star Network app at http://www.blackstarnetwork.com! We're on iOS, AppleTV, Android, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, XBox and SamsungTV. The #BlackStarNetwork is a news reporting platform covered under Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 4 of the Thursday Bob Rose Show, on the new GOP gubernatorial candidate Rick Jackson, struggling to address how his healthcare company promoted DEI initiatives and supported transgender surgeries. Principles v fear of being called racist? Plus, all the morning's biggest stories for 2-19-26
Hey it's Ron; earlier in the week I'd highlighted some sound legislative offerings from Republican women in the Georgia general assembly that I hoped Democrats would join in on and push across the finish line. There's another, giving pharmacists the ability to prescribe HIV prevention medication, again, penned by a Republican. This is encouraging to see. What's discouraging, of course, is that the same Georgia GOP saw fit earlier in the week to "poison-pill" a bill both parties were enthusiastic about - HB 54 - by adding anti-trans language into it. To discuss some of that refreshing (and rare) bipartisanship - but also the more troubling legislation making its way through this session, is Dr. Michelle Au, representative for Georgia's 50th House District, and host of the new podcast "Georgia Diagnosis."Rev. Senator Raphael Warnock added an amendment to DHS funding in an attempt end DHS/ICE purchasing warehouses in Oakwood and Social Circle, GA, two small communities sure to be overwhelmed by facilities their infrastructure cannot handle; the kind of treatment op/ed writer Patricia Murphy called 'unconscionable.' Then I got my mental wellness break with comedian / political satirist Sterling Thrill. Between 'Bad Bunny' triggering Megyn Kelly & Pam Bondi going full "Karen" with her flash cards, we had plenty to chuckle about - and did. Lastly, an op/ed I saw from Mariah Parker & Dominique Grant at Fair Play ATL reminded us all that Atlanta's Olympic legacy isn't just tarnished by a bombing, but a lack of positive impact - and its negative impacts on housing affordability. It's their push to insist that Atlanta hosting eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 invests its windfall in positive change and a lack of ICE in the city's streets.
PLUS: a SE Georgia community wants nowhere near a nickel refinery, McBath brilliantly plays Pam Bondi & GA Repub infighting ratchets upIn Northwest Georgia, Republican Rep. Kasey Carpenter is reviving legislation that would shield carpet manufacturers from PFAS “forever chemical” lawsuits, even though investigations have found contamination in local water and communities. Democratic Congressional candidate Shawn Harris has the preferable messaging, but he's not running against Carpenter; so where is the Georgia HD 4 candidate who will, Ron wonders. Meanwhile, Richmond Hill residents are fighting a proposed nickel refinery near schools and wetlands, drawing painful parallels to the 2024 Conyers chemical fire. Hear Ron catch up with a friend who moved, with her husband and daughter, from Conyers fresh off a 2024 environmental disaster, who'd like to avoid having moved to the potential for another. Plus, the Georgia GOP governor's race takes a dramatic turn as new polling shakes up the field, and Ron highlights how the RNC is looking to let Donald Trump decide who should be Georgia Republicans' nominee instead of voters. Then, of course, there's more legal infighting about fundraising, because, of course Repubs who champaign unfettered money in politics can also hate the unfairness of money in politics.Lost in all the Pam Bondi noise was this brilliant, powerful exchange between Rep. Lucy McBath and Attorney General Pam Bondi during a heated House hearing. That said, it's hard not to enjoy / revisit the popcorn-snacking exchanges that has even conservative pundit Erick Erickson calling for Bondi's ouster. AJC contributor Jamie Dupree sums up the fruitlessness of the GOP's clamoring over the SAVE Act as Ron notes the deep flaws that'll even impact MAGA voters. Lastly, between Bondi's antics and the reaction to 'Bad Bunny' by Megyn Kelly, it has to be pointed out that it's notable what MAGA conservative get worked up about and what they don't. Florida-based minister Joe Smith wrote in his Substack about the dichotomy, and there's something for misguided MAGAs (and sometimes even outraged liberals) to do some soul-searching over.Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#HearGeorgiaNow #TheRonShow #CaseyCarpenter #LucyMcBath #PamBondi #RickJackson #BurtJones #PFAS #NickelRefinery #GeorgiaPolitics
Top Stories for January 17th Publish Date: January 17th PRE-ROLL: Kia Mall of Georgia From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, January 17th and Happy Birthday to James Earle Jones I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. Gwinnett commission accused of deliberately skipping GOP member for vice chair Kemp proposes money for Highway 316 projects, fighting homelessness GCPS receives grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: EAGLE THEATRE STORY 1: Gwinnett commission accused of deliberately skipping GOP member for vice chair Drama is brewing in Gwinnett County politics, and it’s all about the vice chairman seat on the county commission. Republicans are accusing the Democratic majority of intentionally skipping over the board’s lone Republican, District 4 Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp, for the ceremonial role. For years, the vice chair position rotated among district commissioners—until it didn’t. Holtkamp, now in his fourth year, has never been chosen. Instead, the board voted 4-1 to name Democrat Ben Ku as vice chair, sparking claims of “partisan gamesmanship.” Holtkamp, for his part, kept it diplomatic: “I was disappointed but respect the process.” Others? Not so much. Republicans are calling it a blatant snub. Democrat Kirkland Carden didn’t mince words, saying Holtkamp’s “partisan antics” cost him the role. But Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson downplayed the drama, calling the vote a routine decision. And so, the debate rages on. STORY 2: Kemp proposes money for Highway 316 projects, fighting homelessness Gov. Brian Kemp has big plans for Georgia this year—think highways and homelessness. At the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs and Issues Breakfast, he laid out his priorities, and for Gwinnett residents, one stands out: $200 million to keep transforming State Route 316 into a limited-access highway. “Growth along 316 is incredible,” Kemp said. “We need a safe, efficient expressway.” Work’s already underway at Hi Hope Road, with more interchanges and overpasses coming. But that’s not all. Kemp’s also pushing $1.8 billion for permanent express lanes on I-75 in Henry County to ease its infamous traffic jams. And homelessness? He’s proposing $50 million for grants to fund shelters, outreach, and mental health services. Big moves, big money—Kemp’s aiming to leave a mark. STORY 3: GCPS receives grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Gwinnett County Public Schools just scored big—literally. Thanks to a $6.3 million grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation (with help from Atlanta United, the Falcons, and PGA TOUR Superstore), middle and high school sports are getting a major boost. What’s the plan? For starters, GCPS will add field lighting at six athletic fields, meaning weekday soccer games—no more cramming everything into Saturdays. Better lighting also means safer, more flexible practices and games. The grant will also fund girls’ flag football at 14 middle schools by 2026 and help cover costs for boys’ and girls’ soccer programs, especially in underserved areas. The Blank Foundation, founded by Home Depot co-founder Arthur Blank, has donated over $1.5 billion to causes that unite and uplift communities. This grant? Just another example of that mission in action. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: Ingles MarketsSTORY 4: Fox Theatre delivers chart-topping year The Fox Theatre had a banner year in 2025, racking up awards and accolades that cement its place as one of the most beloved venues in the country. From ticket sales to community impact, the recognition poured in. The biggest win? Being crowned IEBA’s 2025 Theatre of the Year—an honor that highlights excellence in programming, operations, and artist relations. “This reflects the strength of our team, the artists who grace our stage, and the audiences who keep showing up,” said CEO Allan Vella. The Fox also dominated year-end charts: No. 2 Highest Grossing Venue Worldwide (Billboard), No. 1 in ticket sales for its size (VenuesNow), and No. 6 globally for ticket sales (Pollstar). Locally, it snagged “Best of Atlanta” honors and a Reader’s Choice Award from the Atlanta Jewish Times. Even the leadership shined—Vella made Atlanta Magazine’s “Atlanta 100” and Billboard’s Touring Power Players list, while team members Rachel Bomeli and Faustina Brooks earned industry awards. The Fox isn’t just a theatre; it’s a cultural powerhouse. STORY 5: Johnson-Morgan named school board chair, Simmons is vice chair Gwinnett County’s school board is shuffling its leadership roles for 2026, but keeping familiar faces at the helm. Tarece Johnson-Morgan, last year’s vice chair, is stepping up as chairwoman, while Adrienne Simmons, who served as chair in 2025, will now take on the vice chair role. Both votes? Unanimous. Not everyone was thrilled, though. Board member Steve Knudsen voiced frustration that Steve Gasper or Rachel Stone weren’t considered for vice chair—but, notably, he didn’t nominate them during the vote. In other business, the board kept its attorney and legal organ the same, readopted policies, and adjusted a few meeting dates for the year. We’ll be right back. Break 3: GCPL Passport STORY 6: Georgia Democratic lawmakers try to rein in ICE Georgia Senate Democrats took aim at the Trump administration Tuesday, introducing a flurry of bills targeting immigration enforcement and military deployments. They didn’t hold back, calling Trump’s administration a “rogue regime” and demanding state Republicans step up. One flashpoint? ICE. After an officer fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis last week, Sen. Josh McLaurin accused ICE of escalating violence. “We’ve all seen the video,” he said. “This isn’t what they’re trained to do.” McLaurin’s bill would let citizens sue ICE for civil rights violations. Other proposals include requiring judicial warrants for enforcement at sensitive locations (like schools and hospitals), mandating badges and unmasking ICE officers, and limiting National Guard deployments without the governor’s approval. Sen. Kim Jackson didn’t mince words: “If Georgia State Patrol can show their faces, so can ICE. It’s cowardice.” But Republicans, like Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte, dismissed the effort, saying, “The state can’t regulate the federal government.” STORY 7: Georgia GOP senators target Raffensperger over voter registration lists Georgia Republicans are turning up the heat on Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, demanding he hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration list to the Trump administration. But Raffensperger? He’s not budging. State law, he says, protects private voter info—Social Security numbers, birthdates, driver’s licenses. Sharing that? Not happening. The DOJ, meanwhile, has been pushing all 50 states for voter lists, claiming it’s about accuracy. They even sued Georgia last month. The resolution, led by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ allies, accuses Raffensperger of “obstruction.” But it’s mostly symbolic—no legal teeth. Raffensperger’s office fired back, saying they’ve already complied as far as the law allows. “He won’t risk identity theft for millions of voters,” the statement read. The DOJ’s lawsuit heads to federal court in Macon soon. Stay tuned. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CTL Script/ Top Stories of January 16th Publish Date: January 16th Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast Today is Friday, January 16th and Happy Birthday to Albert Pujols I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! Commercial: INGLES 1 STORY 1: Woodstock elected officials sworn in to serve new terms Woodstock kicked off the week with a swearing-in ceremony on Monday, welcoming back familiar faces and appointing new ones to key boards. Municipal Court Judge Robert Tidwell swore in Mayor Michael Caldwell and Council Members Warren Johnson (Ward 1), Colin Ake (Ward 3), and Brian Wolfe (Ward 5)—all re-elected in November. Caldwell also administered oaths to Lisa Morton, Spencer Nix, and Melissa Madigan for the Downtown Development Authority, and Rob Hogan, Ali Najafi, and Chase Roth for the Planning Commission. “Public trust is no small thing,” Caldwell said. “Congratulations to everyone stepping up to serve.” The council also made appointments to the Ethics Board and Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. STORY 2: Kemp to build roads, bridges during final year as Georgia governor Gov. Brian Kemp isn’t coasting through his final year in office. Nope, he’s dropping over $2 billion into highway upgrades south and east of Atlanta—part of a $6 billion infrastructure push during his tenure. Speaking at the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs and Issues event Wednesday, Kemp credited “conservative budgeting” for making it all possible. “While some politicians just talk about affordability,” he said, “we’re actually doing something.” Big-ticket items? $1.8 billion for express lanes on I-75 in Henry County, $200 million to overhaul Georgia 316, and $250 million for local road grants. Oh, and $50 million to tackle homelessness ahead of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and House Speaker Jon Burns are laser-focused on taxes—property, income, you name it. Burns even floated eliminating homestead property taxes statewide. It’s a busy year for Georgia politics, to say the least. STORY 3: Canton man charged in Christmas shopping center fire A Canton teenager is facing serious charges after allegedly setting fire to a vacant shopping center on Christmas Day. Firefighters were called to the Canton Village shopping center on Marietta Road around 3:15 p.m., finding smoke pouring from the roof and flames inside. Crews worked quickly—hoses out, building searched—but thankfully, no one was inside, and no injuries were reported. After an investigation involving fire officials, Canton Police, and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, 19-year-old Blake Louis Bishop was arrested Tuesday. He’s charged with first-degree arson, second-degree criminal damage, and loitering. The city-owned shopping center, set for demolition, required 30 firefighters and hours to fully extinguish the blaze. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 2 STORY 4: Morales breaks record, Gold returns for New Years Kickoff meet At the New Year’s Kickoff swim meet, held Jan. 9-11 at UGA’s Ramsey Center, Mila Morales of Chattahoochee Gold shattered a 19-year-old club record in the girls’ 8U 50-yard freestyle. Her time? A blazing 30.95 seconds, dethroning Lauren Case’s long-standing mark. The meet wasn’t scored—more of a post-holiday tune-up—but Chattahoochee Gold swimmers still made waves. Ava Gana stole the show with five wins, including the 12U 400 IM (4:56.31) and 200 backstroke (2:20.22). Meanwhile, Ella Malave snagged gold in the 13+ 100 breaststroke (1:05.96), and Bryston Burks dropped six seconds to win the 12U 200 breaststroke (2:48.08). Plenty of top-10 finishes, too—this team’s on fire. FALCONS: The Atlanta Falcons officially introduced Matt Ryan as their new president of football on Tuesday, and honestly, it feels like a full-circle moment. At the press conference in Flowery Branch, Ryan—who spent 14 seasons as the face of the franchise—spoke about his “unfinished business” with the team. “Since I was drafted, my mission’s been the same: help this organization win championships. We came close, had some success, but I believe we’ll get there,” he said. After retiring and working as a CBS Sports analyst, Ryan said he wasn’t looking for a new job—unless it was with the Falcons. Now, he’ll report directly to owner Arthur Blank, focusing on hiring a head coach and GM who share a unified vision. STORY 5: Georgia GOP senators target Raffensperger over voter registration lists A group of Georgia Republican senators is pressuring Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to hand over the state’s unredacted voter registration list to the Trump administration—a move Raffensperger flatly opposes. His reasoning? State law. Sharing private voter details like Social Security numbers, birthdates, and driver’s license info is a no-go, he says. The DOJ, meanwhile, has been requesting voter lists from all 50 states, claiming it’s about ensuring accuracy. They even sued Georgia last month over the issue. The Senate resolution, led by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ allies, is mostly symbolic. But it accuses Raffensperger of “obstruction” for only providing a public version of the list. Raffensperger’s office fired back, saying he’s already complied as far as state law allows. “He won’t break the law or risk voters’ private information,” his office said. The DOJ’s lawsuit heads to federal court in Macon later this month. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on raw milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this. COMMERCIAL: INGLES 3 SIGN OFF – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gov. Kemp chooses date for special election to fill MTG's vacated Congressional seat; Rep. Doug Collins faces investigation for nepotism within his office; and Georgia GOP lawmakers expected to outline plans for eliminating state income tax. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for December 26th Publish Date: December 26th Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 10 STORY 1: Piastra closing, reopening as café and grocery in January Big changes are coming to Piastra, the Italian spot that’s been a Marietta Square favorite since 2015. After New Year’s Eve, the restaurant will close its doors—but not for good. In January, it’ll reopen as Asher and Rose Modern Grocers, a café and market dreamed up by co-owners Greg Lipman and his mom, Betty Bahl. Why the shift? “We’ve been listening,” Lipman said. Locals have been asking for a specialty grocery store on the Square for years, and now they’re getting one—complete with fresh bread, local produce, prepared meals, and an all-day breakfast café. “We love this community,” Lipman added. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. The Georgia Republican Party announced Monday that Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left vacant by Rick Jeffares. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in immediately. “I’m honored, humbled, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections are something I’ve been passionate about for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Bittersweet: Candymakers navigate tariff, supply chain challenges during holiday season For Jocelyn Dubuke, owner of Jardi Chocolates, 2025 has been a rollercoaster. Tariffs, supply chain chaos, rising costs—it’s enough to make anyone panic. And yet, back in January, she made a bold move: she spent every penny of last year’s revenue stockpiling chocolate. “I told my distributors, ‘Whatever you’ve got in the States, I’ll take it,’” she said. “I wasn’t about to tell my customers halfway through the year, ‘Oh, by the way, your chocolate’s double the price now.’” Chocolate’s tricky—rules you can’t break, ingredients you can’t grow here. But for Dubuke, it’s personal. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 10 STORY 4: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays With the holidays happening, the Georgia Department of Transportation is hitting pause on lane closures—at least on interstates, major routes, and roads near shopping hubs. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the usual construction chaos. But don’t get too comfortable—crews might still be working nearby, and emergency closures? Yeah, those can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and if you’re curious about road updates, check out GDOT’s website or the 511GA app. STORY 5: Walton claims first county title in nearly two decades Walton’s boys wrestling team finally broke through, snagging their first Cobb County title in nearly 20 years Saturday at Harrison High. And they did it in style—five wrestlers in the finals, five gold medals. Coach Dylan Turner couldn’t stop smiling. “We’ve got everyone back from last year, and it took every single one of them to pull this off,” he said. “They’re just gamers.” The standout? Brandon Whiteford. An eighth seed at 165 pounds, he shocked the top seed with a pin in his opener, then clinched the title with a gritty 6-3 win in the final. “I love the pressure,” he said. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I'm Keith Ippolito and that’s your MDJ Sports Minute. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 10 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 26th Publish Date: December 26th Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast Today is Friday, December 26th and Happy Birthday to Lars Ulrich I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! Commercial: INGLES 8 STORY 1: Cherokee High School student places in statewide art contest Cherokee High senior Grace Dai just snagged second place in the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Art Contest, and her piece, “The Fall of the House of Chief Vann,” is heading to the Georgia State Capitol for the 2026 legislative session. Pretty cool, right? Dai’s no stranger to recognition—she’s been in the Governor’s Honors Program for Visual Arts, featured in the Atlanta High School Art Exhibit, and, oh yeah, she’s also a National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist. Her art teacher, Morgan Clifton, must be beaming. Grace? She’s clearly on a roll, and it doesn’t look like she’s slowing down anytime soon. STORY 2: Salleigh Grubbs appointed to State Election Board Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP Chair, is stepping into a new role on the State Election Board. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appointed her to fill the seat left by Rick Jeffares, who stepped down last week. It’s a “recess appointment,” Grubbs explained, and she’s diving in right away. “I’m honored, humbled—really, all of it,” she said. “Fair elections have been my focus for years, and I’m ready to get to work.” A Marietta native, Grubbs led the Cobb GOP until earlier this year and now serves as the Georgia GOP’s first vice chair. “This is about transparency,” she added. STORY 3: Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for the holidays With the holidays here, the Georgia DOT is giving drivers a little gift: no lane closures on interstates, major routes, or roads near shopping hotspots. From Dec. 23 at 6 a.m. to Dec. 28 at 10 p.m., and again from Dec. 31 at 5 a.m. to Jan. 2 at 5 a.m., you’ll get a break from the cones. But don’t get too comfy—crews might still be working nearby, and emergencies? Yeah, those closures can still happen. Stay sharp, watch for signs, and check the 511GA app for updates. Safe travels, y’all. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 9 STORY 4: High-Scoring Georgia Men's Basketball Continues Non-Conference Roll With SEC play looming, Georgia’s men’s basketball team has plenty to feel good about. Monday night, they steamrolled West Georgia 103-74, improving to 11-1 and keeping their spotless 35-0 home non-conference record under coach Mike White intact. Blue Cain and Jeremiah Wilkinson were on fire, combining for 39 points. Cain dropped 20 on 9-of-13 shooting, adding four assists and three steals. “They told me about the 100-point record after the game,” Cain said. “It’s cool, but we’re just focused on playing the right way.” Somto Cyril? A beast. Fifteen points, 15 boards, four blocks. SEC, here they come. FALCONS: Bijan Robinson was electric, C.J. Henderson clutch, and the Falcons? They held on—barely. Atlanta edged Arizona 26-19 on Sunday, thanks to Henderson’s diving interception with 90 seconds left, slamming the door on the Cardinals’ final drive. Robinson? Unreal. 171 total yards, a touchdown grab, and a spot in Falcons history—just the third player to hit 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season. Not bad company: Jamal Anderson, William Andrews. Arizona? Another heartbreak. Seven straight losses, 12 of their last 13. Brissett’s 203 yards weren’t enough, and a wild Michael Wilson TD catch wasn’t either. Atlanta’s still alive. Barely. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Incoming Mayor Dennis Nelson shares goals for Ball Ground Dennis Nelson has big plans for Ball Ground. The incoming mayor, set to be sworn in Jan. 15, wants to turn Ball Ground Highway into a bustling commercial corridor and add a new park—maybe even the city’s first dog park. “Right now, it’s just an empty stretch,” he said. “People want to stay local, not drive miles for dinner or shopping.” Nelson’s also focused on the truck bypass project, aiming to keep heavy traffic out of downtown. “Everyone’s tired of the trucks,” he said. A Ball Ground resident since 2018, Nelson’s roots run deep—his great-great-grandfather helped settle the nearby city of Nelson. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on holiday foods Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this. COMMERCIAL: INGLES 10 SIGN OFF – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A mystery group is spending millions on attack ads against Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, and no one seems to know - or wants to say - who's behind it. Kind of rich that Jones and the Georgia GOP are suddenly outraged over dark money tactics they've long defended. The ads, tied to an unregistered group called Georgians for Integrity, have sparked ethics complaints, legal threats, and a political guessing game inside the Republican primary for governor.Comedian Sterling Thrill joined Ron to laugh through the absurdity, unpack the hypocrisy, and talk about why this shadow campaign may be rattling the GOP front-runner more than the allegations themselves.Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#HearGeorgiaNow #TheRonShow #RonRoberts #SterlingThrill #GeorgiaPolitics #BurtJones #DarkMoney #GAGOP #ElectionAds
Unique, Fearless and Topical where you provide the balance to our content. Tonight, in Hour 1, Shelley talks about a local election where republicans have lost, talks to Charlie Bailey the Chair of the Democrat party in Georgia, and has in studio Josh Mckoon Chair of the Georgia GOP, and much more. Listen LIVE weeknights 7pm-9pm on 95.5 WSB
This week on The FratChat Podcast, the boys crack open the most unhinged holiday stories ever written — by us to roast us. That's right, we're diving into “Story Time 2K25,” featuring the legendary Carlitos, the Sweaty Snack-Hoarding Menace of Christmas, and Old School Chris surviving the world's angriest grandma and the world's most volatile lactose incident. From reindeer homicide to bathroom war crimes, this episode is a festive fever dream of chaos, trauma, and poor adult supervision. And as always, your two favorite bros bring it to life with dramatic readings and enough questionable morals to qualify as a holiday special on FX. In our other segments, we jump into Emails From the Listeners, including a listener's absolute CODE RED situation — a Hallmark holiday gone full Skinemax when his mom walked in mid–North Pole polishing. We break down how a grown man recovers from psychological Chernobyl. Then a listener asks CMo the big question: “What conspiracy theory do you believe… but only after two beers?” And in the news, the guys talk about the clown circus that is FIFA inventing a “Peace Prize” just to hand it to Donald Trump after the Nobel said “nah.” Finally, in this week's Not the Drag Queens, we expose yet another “child protector” who turned out to be the actual threat — former Georgia GOP assistant secretary Ja'Quon Stembridge, caught in an alleged sting that proves, once again, drag queens are just trying to contour while everyone else is out here committing felonies. Strap in, folks — it's a wild one! Got a question, comment or topic for us to cover? Let us know! Send us an email at fratchatpodcast@gmail.com or follow us on all social media: Instagram: http://Instagram.com/FratChatPodcast Facebook: http://Facebook.com/FratChatPodcast Twitter: http://Twitter.com/FratChatPodcast YouTube: http://YouTube.com/@fratchatpodcast Follow Carlos and CMO on social media! Carlos: IG: http://Instagram.com/CarlosDoesTheWorld YouTube: http://YouTube.com/@carlosdoestheworld TikTok: http://TikTok.com/@carlosdoestheworld Twitter: http://Twitter.com/CarlosDoesWorld Threads: http://threads.net/carlosdoestheworld Website: http://carlosgarciacomedy.com Chris ‘CMO' Moore: IG: http://Instagram.com/Chris.Moore.Comedy TikTok: http://TikTok.com/@chris.moore.comedy Twitter: http://Twitter.com/cmoorecomedy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Unique, Fearless and Topical where you provide the balance to our content. Tonight, in Hour 2, Shelley takes phone calls, including a call from the person who was responsible for turning in Ja'Quon Stembridge the former assistant secretary for the Georgia GOP. He answers all of Shelley questions, and much more. Listen LIVE weeknights 7pm-9pm on 95.5 WSB
A fast-moving story surrounding 19-year-old former Georgia GOP assistant secretary Ja'Quon Stembridge, whose sudden resignation made headlines after a vigilante sting video swept across social media. Ron spoke directly with "Angelus" of Street Sweepers TV, who explains how his group's decoy operation unfolded and why the encounter escalated the way it did. Later, Ron brings on Eric from Blue Georgia, who shares how GOP leadership reacted—and why his posts quickly drew blocks from party officials. The episode shifts to national news as Ron caught up with CBS News White House reporter Stacy Lyn for an update on the tragic National Guard shooting in Washington, D.C., and the political finger-pointing now underway. His opinion: the blame goes back all the way to Trump 1.0.Fresh developments in South Carolina, where Rep. Nancy Mace faces upheaval inside her own campaign team. Home sellers are de-listing at record pace in and around metro Atlanta, and Ron (who's also a REALTOR) has some insights, plus with Six Flags over Georgia pulling the plug on "Holiday in the Park" comes some alternate festive spots throughout the state, including Stone Mountain Park. Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#HearGeorgiaNow #TheRonShow #StreetSweepersTV #BlueGeorgia #NancyMace #GeorgiaPolitics #GAGOP #NationalGuard #AtlantaNews #PoliticalNews
In Episode 398, recorded an hour before Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, Ken and Dave discuss J. D. Vance convicted of threatening J. D. Vance, Trump's Communist visitor, "muscle mommies", time served for a tripping pilot, Josh McKoon's odd choice for special advisor, a pedo gets life, and Democrats recommend insubordination. National Politics and Washington D.C. The hosts discuss Joe Biden's 83rd birthday and the ongoing debate over his mental state and potential 2024 run. Details from Dick Cheney's funeral were shared, noting the attendance of "war mongers" like the Bushes, Clintons, and Obamas. Donald Trump did not attend, reportedly out of respect for their strained relationship. Revelations about Jeffrey Epstein included reports of his micro penis, which was described as lemon-shaped. Donald Trumphosted socialist New York politician Zohran Mamdani in his office, sparking debate over Trump's populist appeal over hardline conservative stances (like those held by MTG or Thomas Massie). The discussion covered NYC politics, including the challenges of rent control and a high number of vacant apartments due to landlords being unable to afford repairs. Trump's sleep habits were noted; he reportedly operates effectively on only two hours of sleep per night. Assassination Attempt Aftermath and Mental Health The man who attempted to assassinate Trump (Crooks) had a significant digital footprint, contrary to initial reports. The individual was characterized as mentally ill and an "incel" who was addicted to seeking attention by hopping between volatile beliefs (violently pro-Trump, then anti-Trump, changing pronouns to they/them). He was noted to be involved in the furry community and obsessed with "muscle mommies" (steroided-up muscle-building women). The off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot who attempted to pull the fuel kill switches mid-flight (while on a 40-hour shroom bender) was given "time served" and ordered to stay away from aviation for five years. Congressional Conduct and Military Orders A group of Democrat members of Congress, including former astronaut Mark Kelly, were criticized for making a video that told U.S. military and clandestine service members to disobey unlawful orders, advice which the hosts argued could ruin a young soldier's career if the order is later deemed lawful. Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett was criticized for mistakenly reading a list of politicians who had taken donations from a Dr. Jeffrey Epstein, wrongly claiming the funds came from the convicted child abuser. Georgia Politics and Corruption The hosts discuss the upcoming quick legislative session in Georgia, expected to end by mid-March. The future of eliminating state income tax and property taxes remains a major topic. Georgia GOP party chair Josh McKoon faced heavy criticism for appointing Brad Barnes—a self-identified national populist—as an adviser, given Barnes' history of xenophobic and anti-Semitic social media posts. This was called an "unforced error" that harms fundraising and voter outreach, particularly among older Republicans. The hosts suggest state-wide candidates like Bert Jones (Lt. Governor candidate) are vulnerable to runoffs due to the fracturing of the Republican base. In a local Georgia crime case, former church volunteer Kelly Ivy was convicted of plotting to abduct underage girls online and received a life sentence with a requirement to serve 50 years in confinement. Tragedy at Sea The high seas murder case of 18-year-old Anna Keaptainner was detailed. She died by asphyxiation on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship and was found naked, wrapped in a sheet, and stuffed under a bed. The case involves her 16-year-old stepbrother, who was reportedly infatuated with her and is being held at an undisclosed location but not formally detained.
A lot of ground covered today ... Ron opens with the political jolt in Sandy Springs, where Democratic State Rep. Esther Panitch crossed party lines to endorse former Georgia GOP chair and incumbent mayor Rusty Paul. Ron speaks directly with mayoral candidate Dontaye Carter, who outlines why the endorsement misrepresents his record, inflames racial dog whistles, and reflects deeper issues of elitism and accountability inside Democratic circles. Carter also details his platform on affordability, representation, and the demographic challenges facing Sandy Springs as it heads into a pivotal runoff.Next, Ron turns to an in-depth interview with Dr. Daniel Canso of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, who explains why eliminating Georgia's state income tax would shift billions in costs onto working families while delivering disproportionate benefits to the wealthy. His breakdown of sales tax expansion, regressivity, and long-term budget impacts offers essential clarity for voters.Ron then examines Donald Trump's latest outburst — a call to punish Democratic lawmakers for reminding military members of their duty to refuse illegal orders — and digs in on who the target audience for the Democrats' video was and how the Trump administration is already giving illegal orders by blurring National Guard call-up titles. How about an evidence-based look at immigration data, for once? Ron dives in after Rep. Buddy Carter's letter to DHS Secretary "cosplay" Kristi Noem calling for ICE agents to invade metro Atlanta. Ron theorizes he was "triggered" by a report earlier this week that showed Georgia is 6th in the U.S. in terms of undocumented immigrant population. May work in the primary, but Georgians overwhelmingly oppose mass deportations. Finally, author Dennis Brennan joins the show to discuss his new book drawing historical parallels between Aaron Burr and Donald Trump, offering a fascinating lens on political power, perception, and mythmaking.Tune in to catch the Ron Show weekdays from 4-6pm Eastern time on Georgia NOW! Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com.#DaunteCarter #DanielCanso #DennisBrennan #GeorgiaPolitics #SandySprings #2025Runoff #IncomeTaxDebate #ImmigrationDebate #HearGeorgiaNow #TheRonShow
MDJ Script/ Top Stories for November 5th Publish Date: November 5th Commercial: From the BG Ad Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. Today is Wednesday, November 5th and Happy Birthday to Brian Adams I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Marietta receives Statewide Award for M2R Trail Activation Study 'Dire need': Cobb nonprofits under strain as uncertainty over food stamps continues Braves Bench coach, former player Walt Weiss promoted as new manager All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe! BREAK: INGLES 5 STORY 1: Marietta receives Statewide Award for M2R Trail Activation Study Big news for Marietta—its Mountain to River Trail Activation Study just snagged the 2025 Outstanding Planning Document Award from the Georgia Planning Association. Pretty cool, right? This wasn’t just another dry, cookie-cutter plan. Nope. It stood out for its creativity—think bold graphics, thoughtful storytelling, and a planning process that actually felt, well, human. Back in 2023, Marietta teamed up with the Atlanta Regional Commission and Georgia Conservancy to figure out how to breathe new life into the 3.5-mile stretch of the M2R Trail. Placemaking, wayfinding, connecting neighborhoods—it’s all in there. The award? Accepted Oct. 9. The study? Worth a read. STORY 2: 'Dire need': Cobb nonprofits under strain as uncertainty over food stamps continues The ripple effects of the government shutdown are hitting hard, and local nonprofits are feeling the strain. SNAP benefits? Still in limbo. Sure, judges ordered the program to keep running, but “partial funding” doesn’t mean much when no one knows how much or when. Melanie Kagan, CEO of The Center for Family Resources, is bracing for impact. “No real clarity,” she said. Calls for food and rent help are already flooding in—1,400 a month, and climbing. Over at Sweetwater Mission, Pastor Tracy Carter is seeing lines like never before. “Cars wrapped around the block,” he said. They’ve had to cut food portions just to stretch supplies. And with the holidays looming? It’s bleak. MUST Ministries is also overwhelmed—five times the usual number of people seeking help last week. “Even if the shutdown ends tomorrow, the damage is done,” said Katy Ruth Camp. Cobb Chairwoman Lisa Cupid urged compassion, recalling her own struggles during the 2009 recession. “So many are living paycheck to paycheck,” she said. The message is clear: nonprofits need help—donations, volunteers, anything. It’s all hands on deck. STORY 3: Braves Bench coach, former player Walt Weiss promoted as new manager The Atlanta Braves have handed the reins to Walt Weiss, naming him their new manager after eight years as the team’s bench coach. Weiss isn’t new to the spotlight—or the hardware. He’s got two World Series rings: one from his playing days with the 1989 Oakland A’s and another from the Braves’ 2021 championship run. At 61, Weiss has been part of the Braves family for over a decade, first as a player and then as a coach. Since 2018, he’s helped guide the team to six division titles, seven playoff runs, and that unforgettable 2021 title. Before Atlanta, Weiss managed the Rockies from 2013-2016 and spent years as a special assistant in their front office. Drafted 11th overall in 1985 by the A’s, he played 14 seasons in the majors, earning Rookie of the Year in ’88. Now? He’s back at the helm, ready to write the next chapter. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. We’ll be right back. Break: INGLES 5 STORY 4: Then and now: Marietta High School's yearbook unites generations For Lucy Greene, flipping through the Marietta High School Olympian yearbook today feels like stepping into another world. Back in 1953, when she was editor—and, oh yeah, Miss MHS—things were... different. “Y’all have computers everywhere,” she laughed, standing in front of the current yearbook staff on Monday. “I’m still analog. We were scissors-and-glue people. Literally. We cut, pasted, and prayed it looked right.” She described hauling pages to a photo lab in Atlanta, waiting for proofs, and triple-checking everything with rulers and pencils. For seniors Rebecca Moseley and Mary Caroline Murrell, today’s editors, Greene’s visit was a reminder of how much tradition matters. “It’s so special,” Murrell said. “Even 50 years later, she’s still looking back at her yearbook. That’s what we’re creating—something that lasts forever.” Greene shared her favorite memories: sock hops after basketball games, yearbook contests, and the thrill of seeing your face in print. When she graduated in 1953, Greene’s class was the first at MHS to hit 100 students. This year? Over 500. Before leaving, she offered the staff a bit of wisdom: “You can’t have too many friends in this world. And when you finish something like this, it sticks with you. It really does.” STORY 5: AROUND TOWN: Cobb GOP activist Pam Reardon dies Pam Reardon, a fierce and passionate voice in East Cobb’s Republican community, has passed away. A retired real estate agent and longtime activist, Pam had been battling cancer. Her death was announced by Salleigh Grubbs, former Cobb GOP chair, who described her as “fearless, principled, and full of life.” Grubbs wrote, “Pamela Reardon was a shining star. Her dedication to her values and her love for others were unmatched. She was my beloved Pammy.” Born in Calgary, Canada, Pam moved to the U.S. in the late ’80s. For over 25 years, she and her husband Tom built a life in East Cobb, raising six children and doting on their grandchildren. Josh McKoon, Georgia GOP chair, also paid tribute, calling her “a pillar of our community” and “a testament to service and leadership.” Pam’s impact extended beyond politics. She served on the board of the Family Life Resource Center and as Women’s Council secretary at St. Ann’s Church. Her loss leaves a void, but her legacy of courage, compassion, and conviction will continue to inspire. Break: STORY 6: Cobb commissioners discuss proposed new stormwater fee Cobb County’s stormwater system is, well, a mess. Aging pipes, sinkholes, overgrown detention ponds—it’s all piling up. And now, county leaders are floating a new fee to tackle it. Here’s the pitch: homeowners in unincorporated Cobb and Mableton would pay $4.75 a month. Businesses, schools, and churches? They’d pay based on how much impervious surface (think parking lots, roofs) they have. The goal? Double the stormwater budget and finally start catching up on repairs. The fee would also fund proactive services—like maintaining detention ponds and hiring crews to handle smaller fixes. But not everyone’s sold. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, a longtime critic of transferring water revenue to the general fund, isn’t convinced. “I’ve been fighting this for 15 years,” she said. Public hearings are set for Nov. 12 and Nov. 20, with a vote scheduled after. STORY 7: Police investigating fatal Austell car crash Cobb County Police are investigating a deadly crash that happened early Sunday morning on Joe Jerkins Boulevard. It was just after 3 a.m. when Erik Attaway, 45, of Austell, lost control of his gray 2019 Nissan Rogue. Heading north, he hit a curve, veered into the southbound lanes, and then off the road entirely—slamming into an embankment and a tree. Attaway didn’t survive. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police are still piecing together what happened. If you know anything, they’re asking you to call 770-499-3987. We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: INGLES 5 Signoff- Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's Political Breakfast, host Lisa Rayam broadcasts live with Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson to give the rundown on Raffensperger. The Secretary of State has not officially announced a campaign for the Georgia Governor's race in 2026, and is also rumored to be exploring a run for U.S. Senate. But the Republican is not universally supported within the Georgia GOP. In June of 2025, GOP convention delegates passed a resolution to prevent him from qualifying as a Republican candidate, even though its legal legitimacy has been questioned. Raffensperger also faced opposition from President Donald Trump, but survived those political attacks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia GOP leaders push to eliminate state income tax; South Fulton mayor's race sees lots of familiar faces; and The Home Depot reports a slightly off Q2.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia GOP unlikely to follow Texas in mid-decade redistricting push; Hundreds of Georgia houses to get free rooftop solar; and Delta clarifies AI intent following Senatorial pushback. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia's 10th district Congressional representative, "MTG with a mullet" Mike Collins has thrown his trucker hat into the ring to seek the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate in 2026. He hopes, of course, to unseat Senator Jon Ossoff, and cast the Democrat (along with Reverend Senator Raphael Warnock) as working for "California crazies or New York nut jobs." He stepped in not longer Governor Brian Kemp informed him he'd be backing the (potential, still, I guess) campaign of former college football coach Derek Dooley. They're lifelong friends, after all, but Dooley's conservative bonafides are already coming into question in right wing media. There's this concept that Kemp was trying to play "kingmaker" (does he really have that kind of sawy herding cats with Georgia GOP voters, though?) and keep the Senate primary race from being a bitter fight. Good luck with that. For what it's worth, I happen to think Georgia Democrats might flex a little "ranked choice" and cross party lines to choose the lesser of all the evils that'll be on that ballot as a de facto "second choice."------"The Georgia Gang" panelist (and Georgia WIN List executive director) Melita Easters brought an interesting point to the political conversation ... there seem to be a lot of "daddy issues" in the Georgia GOP. Between the Derek Dooley (son of UGA football coaching legend Vince Dooley) and Lt. Governor Burt Jones and his daddy's influence (and wealth) ... it's just hard to ignore.------Atlanta growth is "slowing" (still growing, but slower), as noted in a Wall Street Journal article, and noted on Sunday's "The Georgia Gang" as well. Housing costs and woeful traffic affecting "quality of life." With an abundance of office space available, post-pandemic, it's not easy converting office buildings to residential use, as natural as that seems to be a solution for a lack of housing supply. A for the traffic issue, I go right back to the well insisting it's past-due time for someone to champion connecting the entire state with high speed rail and networking to the airport here, strengthening MARTA's usability and convincing Atlanta's mayor (and Atlanta Regional Commission chair) to reconsider his position on Beltline Rail necessity where it's already necessary to be first.
Georgia GOP leader accused of $140-million Ponzi scheme: "Sorry;" Low-Key COVID; and how much above the average income Atlantans will have to find in the couch seat cusions to afford an average house. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hosts Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy examine the buzz around former football coach Derek Dooley's possible run for U.S. Senate in Georgia. Can a candidate with virtually no public political track record—and a legacy tied to Tennessee orange—win over Georgia GOP voters? Then, Tia Mitchell joins Greg for the Monday Mailbag segment, where they answer questions about Medicaid paperwork, political labels, and even podcast linguistics. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also tell your smart speaker to “play Politically Georgia podcast.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's Political Breakfast, we react to news from the AJC that Geoff Duncan may be running in the 2026 Georgia Governor's race as a Democrat. Duncan, now an official outcast after Georgia GOP leaders expelled him from the party, has long expressed frustration with President Donald Trump and those who support his administration. But strategists Brian Robinson, Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam wonder: Is the party willing to accept him? Or has Duncan fallen off the radar? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A group of faith leaders, doctors and high school students form coalition to urge Georgia Public Service Commission to push Georgia Power toward cleaner power sources; Georgia GOP leaders split over decision to bomb Iran; and how the Atlanta Community Food Bank is navigating record demand. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Punchbowl News Reporter Max Cohen is back to talk all things reconciliation as the Senate Finance Committee begins its “Byrd Bath” process. Plus, the Georgia GOP is on edge as they wait for a signal from President Donald Trump on endorsements in the state's Senate race. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Eric, @CSIBillCrane, @TimAndrewsHere, @Autopritts, @JaredYamamoto, Greg, and George in their newly extended timeslot from 3pm-7pm as they chat about the cliquey Georgia GOP, the return of BTS, sexfluencers, and so much more! *New episodes of our sister shows: The Popcast with Tim Andrews and The Nightcap with Jared Yamamoto are available as well!
GDP Script/ Top Stories for June 10th Publish Date: June 10th From The BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, June 10th and Happy Birthday to Michael J. Fox I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia Car Crashes Into Duluth House Lilburn Campers Celebrate the Program’s 44th Camp Year with a Prehistoric Surprise Police looking for victims of Buford teen accused of child molestation All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Kia MOG (07.14.22 KIA MOG) STORY 1: Car Crashes Into Duluth House A driver escaped unharmed after their vehicle crashed into the front of a home on Park Bluff Lane in Duluth on Monday. Police reported the driver experienced a mechanical issue, causing them to lose control. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though the home's entrance sustained significant damage. STORY 2: Lilburn Campers Celebrate the Program’s 44th Camp Year with a Prehistoric Surprise The Girl Scouts Lilburn Day Camp celebrated its 44th year with a "Prehistoric Party" theme, hosting hundreds of campers for paleontology-inspired activities like polishing amber and daily dinosaur visits. Campers voted on the theme and designed T-shirts for next year. Directed by Kathy Lewis, a decade-long volunteer, the camp emphasized teamwork and family among campers and volunteers. Activities included outdoor cooking, crafts, woodworking, and Scout skills, with campers like Faith Addison and Riley Perez sharing aspirations inspired by their experiences. The camp fostered creativity, nature appreciation, and leadership development for all participants. STORY 3: Police looking for victims of Buford teen accused of child molestation Gwinnett County Police are seeking potential victims of 18-year-old Lucas Costea, who is accused of molesting a child on Christmas Day 2020 in Buford. Costea, charged with child molestation, aggravated child molestation, and aggravated sexual battery, was granted $25,000 bail with conditions, including house arrest, a GPS ankle monitor, and no contact with minors except his brother. Police believe Costea may have ties to a youth organization and urge anyone with information to contact the Special Victims Unit at 770-513-5300. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: Ingles Markets 8 STORY 4: Mining project near Okefenokee on hold as applicant struggles financially Twin Pines Minerals (TPM), seeking to mine titanium near Georgia's Okefenokee Swamp, has failed to provide $2.1 million in financial assurances required by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) for site reclamation. The project faces strong opposition from environmental advocates and local governments, citing potential harm to the swamp's ecosystem, while supporters argue it could create jobs in a high-poverty area. TPM is also embroiled in lawsuits, including one alleging insolvency and fraud. Critics, like environmental lawyer Josh Marks, urge the EPD to deny the permit, citing the company's alleged misconduct and financial instability. STORY 5: Gwinnett Police Arrest 2 Suspects Tied To Armed Robberies In Norcross Gwinnett County Police arrested Jairo Martinez-Villafranca, 37, and Belki Reyes-Cordova, 28, for a series of armed robberies at Norcross grocery stores in May. The pair allegedly robbed El Amigo and La Escondida grocery stores on May 13, demanding cash at gunpoint, with one incident involving a clerk caring for a baby. A third robbery occurred in DeKalb County two days later. Using FLOCK cameras, police tracked the suspects' vehicle, leading to their arrests. Both face multiple charges, including armed robbery and aggravated assault, and are held without bond in Gwinnett County Jail. Break: STORY 6: Georgia solar panel manufacturer launching recycling center Qcells, a leading solar panel manufacturer, is launching EcoRecycle by Qcells in Cartersville to recycle up to 500,000 solar panels annually, repurposing materials like aluminum, glass, silver, and copper. This initiative addresses the growing issue of solar waste, which often ends up in landfills, and aims to enhance sustainability in the clean energy sector. Qcells, with a strong presence in Georgia since 2019, continues to expand its role in the circular economy, reinforcing solar energy as a renewable and responsible power source. STORY 7: Georgia GOP delegates go home, keeping their chairman despite grievances ahead of a big election year The Georgia GOP state convention in Dalton re-elected Josh McKoon as chairman amid internal tensions and ideological debates. Delegates passed a resolution to bar Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger from running as a Republican, though it’s likely unenforceable. Discussions centered on upcoming elections, with potential candidates for governor and U.S. Senate, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and others, hinting at future runs. The convention emphasized loyalty to Trump, opposition to transgender policies, and eliminating state income tax. Controversy arose over electronic voting, but McKoon secured a decisive victory, dismissing the disputes as part of the process. Break 4: Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today's episode of Politically Georgia, hosts Greg Bluestein and Patricia Murphy recap the Georgia GOP convention in Dalton—where talk of unity ran headlong into rumors, new contenders, and long-simmering divides. They unpack the surprising emergence of the son of former UGA football coach Vince Dolley, Derek Dooley, as a possible Senate candidate, and what Marjorie Taylor Greene had to say about a run for governor. Then, newly re-elected state GOP Chairman Josh McKoon joins to share his thoughts on unifying the party and the challenges ahead. Have a question or comment for the show? Call or text the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during our next Monday Mailbag segment. You can also email your questions at PoliticallyGeorgia@ajc.com. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also tell your smart speaker to “play Politically Georgia podcast.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Live, Local, Topical, and Authentic where you provide the balance to our content. Tonight, in Hour 1, Shelley talks about the parking at the Atlanta airport, talks about the Georgia GOP convention from this weekend, he talks about trump deploying the national guard on protesters in California, and much more. Listen LIVE weeknights 7pm-9pm on 95.5 WSB
On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast just after the Memorial Day holiday, strategists Brian Robinson, Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam discuss the 2026 U.S. Senate race against incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff. Governor Brian Kemp decided not to run. He and President Donald Trump met recently in Washington earlier this month to mull-over who will face Ossoff. In the race so far: U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, from Georgia's coast, who was the first major Republican candidate to declare. Then came state Insurance Commissioner John King. Marjorie Taylor Greene also declined to challenge Ossoff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chair of the Georgia Republican Party Josh McKoon joins this week's Political Breakfast. Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam have some questions about McKoon managing party unity. They ask McKoon if he agrees with everything that President Donald Trump has been ordering in Washington, and what he thinks about Republicans who refuse to come together under Trump, and support more MAGA-aligned candidates: AKA, former Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan. Earlier this week, the PB team spoke with the new Georgia Democratic Chair, Charlie Bailey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brian Kemp is out. No Senate run in 2026, and that shifts the entire field. Kemp was the Republican Party's best shot at flipping the Georgia seat currently held by Jon Ossoff — and he knew it. He didn't just flirt with the idea. He let it hang out there long enough for donors, strategists, and journalists to start treating it as likely. So when he made it official this weekend, it sent shockwaves through the Georgia GOP and national Republicans hoping for a clean, high-profile pickup in a battleground state.Let's be clear: Kemp would've been a problem for Ossoff. He's a two-term governor with a reputation for competency, no Trump baggage, and enough distance from the MAGA wing to appeal to suburban voters. He beat Stacey Abrams twice. He stared down Trump in 2020 and walked away stronger. There are few Republicans who can claim that kind of profile. Without him, the bench gets thin — and fast.Ossoff is already pulling in national dollars, and now he doesn't have to spend the next 12 months preparing for a Kemp-style challenge. That gives him time to build narrative, define the race early, and lock down coalitions that might've been vulnerable in a high-turnout, split-ticket election. Democrats don't have to win Georgia by a landslide — they just need to hold it. And in a cycle that's already looking rough for Republicans in other swing states, the GOP needed Georgia to be easy. It's not.Now the question becomes whether Republicans want to rally around a moderate and play defense, or roll the dice with a firebrand and try to rally the base. Either option carries risk. A moderate might not excite anyone. A MAGA pick might turn the whole race into a referendum on January 6 or Trump loyalty. And the problem with a crowded primary isn't just messaging — it's money. Ossoff gets to hoard his resources while Republicans knife each other in the dark.It's early, but the GOP just lost its best card. And unless something big changes — a surprise retirement, a shocking recruit, a sudden scandal — this race has quietly shifted from “toss-up” to “lean blue.” Not because Ossoff is invincible. But because the Republican bench is looking thin, the calendar is ticking, and Brian Kemp just said, “No thanks.” Heck, if Marjorie Taylor-Greene steps in, it might just be Ossoff +7. And it will not be for lack of news coverage.Chapters00:00:00 - Intro00:02:48 - Brian Kemp Not Running for Senate00:06:18 - Interview with Aubrey Sitterson01:14:20 - Wrap-up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.politicspoliticspolitics.com/subscribe
Last week we learned Georgia voters only seem to have an appetite for 'change' in the US Senate if it comes via Governor Brian Kemp unseating Senator Jon Ossoff. Well, unfortunately for the Georgia GOP, Kemp's decided he, nor "Marty and the girls" are up for it. Why? Georgia Recorder op/ed writer Jay Bookman has a few ideas, and he joined me to explain how he correctly predicted Kemp's decision in late 2024 and elaborate further on his (I believe correct) assessment that Marjorie Taylor Greene (already kicking the tires on a Senate run) has no chance to win a statewide election. ------Reverend Senator Raphael Warnock held an Atlanta town hall last weekend, and while the setting (a church) and overwhelming majority of the attendees gave him comfort, there were some vocal pro-Palestinian protestors who sought to be heard.
As President Donald Trump marks his first month back in the Oval Office, Georgia Republicans are solidifying their strategy for the future. On today's episode of Politically Georgia, hosts Greg Bluestein and Tia Mitchell sit down with Georgia GOP Chairman Josh McKoon to discuss Trump's return, the state party's vision and McKoon's own plans for reelection. Meanwhile, Georgia Democrats are dealing with mounting calls for change after suffering significant losses in November. The debate has reached the top of the party, with some urging Chairwoman Nikema Williams to step down. Georgia Democratic Party Vice Chair Matt Wilson joins the show to weigh in on whether a leadership shakeup is necessary. Plus, Congressman Rich McCormick addresses the backlash from his recent town hall meeting that went viral. The Suwanee Republican explains in his own words what happened, why the event took a heated turn, and how he's responding to his constituents. Have a question or comment for the show? Call the 24-hour Politically Georgia Podcast Hotline at 770-810-5297. We'll play back your question and answer it during the listener mailbag segment on next Friday's episode. Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also tell your smart speaker to “play Politically Georgia podcast.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Georgia was Joe Biden's most shocking flip of 2020, and if Donald Trump is going to become president again, taking the state back is essential. Georgia GOP chair Josh McKoon joins to explain why new laws and a new GOP turnout machine have totally remade the nature of Georgia elections to improve conservative odds. Josh Hammer reacts to Kamala's convention speech and the Democrats' false show of unity, and then Brian Glenn talks about how RFK supporters are reacting to his endorsement of Donald Trump.Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To join Politicology+, visit politicology.com/plus or subscribe in Apple Podcasts. This week, we dive into the nuances of Georgia's Republican primary, No Labels pushing forward with their plan to draft a presidential candidate, and Donald Trump's takeover at the RNC Joining Ron Steslow on week's panel: Greg Bluestein (Politics Reporter at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution) Lucy Caldwell (Board Advisor to the Renew Democracy Initiative and advisor to the Forward Party) Segments this week: (02:14) The Georgia primary (12:25) No Labels (34:34) The RNC Purge [Politicology+] Congress's latest push to ban TikTok Not yet a Politicology+ member? It's our private, ad-free version of this podcast, with 30% more episodes filled with more strategy, analysis, thoughtful discussion…aaand the occasional piece of hot gossip. Upgrade now at politicology.com/plus. Send your questions and thoughts to podcast@politicology.com or leave a voicemail at (202) 455-4558 Follow this week's panel on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/lucymcaldwell https://twitter.com/bluestein Related reading: Segment 1: The Hill - Haley gets 77K votes in Georgia GOP primary after dropping out of race | The Hill AJC - PG A.M.: Takeaways from Georgia's presidential primaries ABC News - Judge throws out 6 counts of Trump's Georgia election interference indictment - ABC News NYT - For This Rookie Judge, a Pivotal Decision Looms in the Georgia Trump Case - The New York Times Segment 2: WSJ - No Labels Is Expected to Push Ahead With ‘Unity' Presidential Ticket - WSJ WSJ - No Labels Considering Georgia Republican Geoff Duncan to Lead ‘Unity' Presidential Ticket - WSJ Segment 3: Politico - RNC installs new leadership as Trump tightens hold on GOP - POLITICO NYT - Election Updates: Big cuts after Trump's R.N.C. takeover; Biden goes on offensive. - The New York Times Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Prosecutions are never supposed to be criminal. For two centuries, America largely avoided Third World political persecutions, but that norm has been obliterated in the left's drive to Get Trump. Missouri AG candidate and Trump legal team member Will Scharf explains the ramifications of the coordinated Biden-led courtroom offensive against Trump, and also explains why presidential immunity ought to protect Trump from the wave of indictments against him. Then, Georgia GOP chief Josh McKoon explains how Georgia Republicans can intervene to stop Fani Willis's machinations — if they can develop the backbone needed to try. Finally, Charlie concludes with a major announcement in his push to fix the GOP. For more content, become a member at Members.CharlieKirk.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.