Democratic Party of Georgia

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DPG Chair Issues Statement on SB 129

Release:  Friday, February 20, 2015          

                                                                                     

Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Issues Statement on SB 129

 

 

Atlanta, GA – Today, Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter issued the following statement in response to the Senate Judiciary Committee tabling SB 129, one of two alleged religious freedom bills.

 

“The Constitution—a 200 year old document that has withstood the test of time—is clear and provides the strongest protections guaranteeing all Americans religious freedom.

 

“It’s interesting that all these ‘strict constructionists’ and ‘small government’ Republicans love to create unfounded controversy to put more legislation on the books. These legislators have 40 days where they can come together and do things that have a positive impact on the lives of Georgians. And most folks I talk to are more concerned with different moral tenets that are shared by the major religions—being good stewards of the planet, feeding the hungry, and providing health care for the sick.

 

“Hopefully, this move by the Senate Judiciary Committee is the death knell for legislation that is essentially a license to discriminate. Georgia Democrats are fine by adhering to the Great Commandment—love thy neighbor.”

 

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DPG Chair Issues Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union Address

Release:  Tuesday, January 20, 2015                     

 

Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Issues Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union Address

  

Dublin, GA – Today, Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s State of the Union Address.

 

“Tonight’s address served as an excellent reminder as to why President Obama was twice chosen by the American people to lead this great country. From day one, his administration has put forth policies that grow the middle class, shrink deficits, fight poverty, and expand opportunity for all Americans. And in his own words, ‘the verdict is clear.’ These policies have worked.

 

“The GOP has been rooting for President Obama’s failure ever since he took office. And Republicans have been dead-wrong about this administration from the get go. We were told that if President Obama were reelected, unemployment would skyrocket. Yet, the national unemployment rate is at its lowest in six years. We were told the economy would worsen, yet 2014 was the best year for job growth since 1999 and the country has added 11.2 million jobs over the last 58 straight months. We were told we would see gas priced at $6.60 per gallon, yet the average price today is $2.14.

 

“While Gov. Nathan Deal’s proposed budget robs 11,500 Georgia school workers of much needed health insurance, President Obama has expanded access to health care to millions of Americans and has now called for an extension of sick leave and family leave for families, reducing the hardship that can be caused by a sick child or a newborn.

 

“For our state’s sake, I pray that Nathan Deal and Georgia’s Republican leaders were listening to America’s President. Georgia Democrats support the President’s accomplishments and agenda. Middle class economics work, expanding opportunity works, and we are all better off when everyone has a fair shot.”

 

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DPG Chair Issues Statement in Honor of Atlanta Pride

Release:  Friday, October 10, 2014 

 

Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Issues Statement in Honor of Atlanta Pride

 

Atlanta, GA – Today, Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter issued the following statement in honor of Atlanta Pride.

 

“This week, we celebrate the contributions made by the LGBT community and just how far we have come as a nation on LGBT rights. While our state has miles to go before we sleep, know that state Democratic lawmakers will continue to work toward a Georgia that treats all its citizens equally under the law.

 

“I’m proud that our Party has led the fight against the discrimination of all people—regardless of who they love. That’s one of the many reasons why I will be marching with Georgia Democrats and the DPG staff in this Sunday’s Pride parade.

 

“We have plenty of reasons to celebrate, but that does not mean we should be satisfied. We cannot stop until all men and women—who are created equally—are treated equally.”

 

 

Dr. Barbara Smith to Join Democratic Party of Georgia’s Coordinated Campaign as Co-Chair

                                                                                     

Dr. Barbara Smith to Join Democratic Party of Georgia’s Coordinated Campaign as Co-Chair

  

Atlanta, GA – Today, Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter announced that Dr. Barbara Smith will serve as a co-chair of the state party’s coordinated campaign.

 

“Georgia Democrats are honored to have Dr. Smith join our team,” said Chairman Porter in a statement. “November’s election will determine whether or not our state will chart a course to provide future generations with the opportunity they deserve. Dr. Smith shares our belief that the surest path to a strong economy and middle class begins with a quality public education for every student—regardless of geography, gender, or background. She is a proven leader and I look forward to working with her.”

 

Find Dr. Smith’s bio below.

 

Dr. Barbara Smith has provided leadership in secondary, postsecondary, and business alliances for AVID Center for more than 17 years.  As Vice President of Government Relations and Equity, Barbara has supported key initiatives through leveraging and increasing alliances with external organizations.  Barbara also monitors education legislation and develops advocacy guides to support student persistence while in college and their success beyond college.

 

 

Currently, Barbara collaborates with Institutions of Higher Education to launch initiatives aimed at promoting pipelines designed to exponentially increase the college graduation rates of all students—especially low wealth students and students of color.  Dr. Smith has successfully developed a national team which has launched AVID Alumni Associations at 9 colleges and universities across the United States.

 

The majority of Dr. Smith’s career in education was with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) and the DeKalb County School District. At the GDOE, Barbara provided statewide educational support through her roles as Executive Director of the Metro School Service Centers, Divisional Director for Instructional Support and Associate Director of the Georgia Leadership Academy.   She also served as Assistant Principal for Instruction at Ronald E. McNair Junior High School and initiated an Individualized School Development Plan that resulted in high performance teacher practices, increased student achievement, and high-level community engagement.  Dr. Smith also taught graduate courses as an adjunct instructor at Georgia State University.

 

As part of her civic engagement, Dr. Smith served a six-year term on the Executive Board of the National Dropout Prevention Network and the Executive Board of Health Education and Human Development at Clemson University.  Barbara currently serves as Vice President of the Georgia State University College of Education Alumni Network and is actively engaged as a member of the Southern Poverty Law Center, Democratic National Committee, Emily’s List, Georgia Democratic Victory Fund, and Ebenezer Baptist Church Women’s Ministry.

 

 

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Meet Robbin Shipp – Georgia Democrats’ Candidate for Commissioner of Labor

Robbin Shipp

Shipp FB copyShipp Twitter copy

 

Meet Georgia Democrats’ candidate for Commissioner of Labor, Robbin Shipp.

 

“You will be hard-pressed to find a more dedicated, passionate public servant than Robbin Shipp,” Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter says of Shipp. “Whether she was serving in the state legislature, holding the guilty accountable as an Assistant District Attorney, or advocating on behalf of the voiceless as a citizen, Robbin has proven to be a champion of Georgia’s working class.”

 

As a Georgia State Representative, Robbin Shipp always placed service before self—spending a lifetime fighting for hardworking Georgians. Robbin is the proud daughter of one of the first African American air traffic controllers, who was an active member of his labor union. She saw firsthand how integral labor unions have been in the fight for decent working conditions, fair pay, and retirement security. Robbin was taught at an early age the value of hard work, which has carried on to her current successful law practice.

 

As a former Assistant District Attorney for Fulton County, Robbin prosecuted criminals in the division for crimes against women and children. Robbin has served as an Associate General Counsel for the Grady Health System where she specialized in Labor and Employment matters, taught Graduate School courses as an adjunct faculty member for St. Francis University, and lectured for continuing education courses to her legal colleagues in the area of Health Care Law.

 

Robbin presently holds membership in the Georgia Bar, Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (GABWA), and Gate City Bar. Additionally, Robbin is a past member of the State Bar of Georgia Investigative Panel and served on the State Bar’s Diversity Sub-committee. While in the Georgia General Assembly, Robbin served on the Judiciary, Labor and Industrial Relations, and State Planning and Community Affairs Committees.

 

As a single mother, Robbin has always felt compelled to lead by example for her daughter. Active in her community, Robbin served on the Board of the Reynoldstown Civic Improvement League and was a volunteer for special projects with Keep Atlanta Beautiful and neighborhood cleanups. She also set this example for her daughter by serving in the Cook Elementary School PTA and as a Board Member to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Campus ministry for the Atlanta University Center.

 

Robbin believes that Georgia must adopt policies which implement a livable wage standard for all everyone; that we should form public-private partnerships to engage innovative collaboration that leads to well-paying jobs for Georgians; and that unemployment benefits should be accessible to individuals for a minimum of 26 weeks. As our next Labor Commissioner, Robbin Shipp will ensure that all Georgians receive a Labor Department that works for every Georgian.

 

Find Robbin online at RobbinShippforLabor.com, like her Facebook page, and follow her on Twitter.

 

PS: Check out this story on how Robbin Shipp and others are making history. For the first time in Georgia’s history, there are five African American women on the statewide ballot.

Shipp Press Conf

Democratic Party of GA Chairman DuBose Porter on Tonight’s Primary Runoff Results

Democratic Party of Georgia Chairman DuBose Porter on Tonight’s Primary Runoff Results

 

Atlanta, GA – Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter issued the following statement on Tuesday’s primary runoff results in the Georgia GOP Senate race.

“There is a clear contrast in this race between Michelle Nunn, a leader who has spent the last 25 years leading volunteer organizations and lifting communities up, and David Perdue, someone who has spent his career enriching himself while often times tearing companies and communities apart,” said Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter. “Georgians want leaders who will fix the mess in Washington, not someone who puts personal profit ahead of regular people.”

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Democratic Party of Georgia to Hold State Convention Saturday, Aug. 9 in Dublin, GA

Democratic Party of Georgia to Hold State Convention Saturday, Aug. 9 in Dublin, GA

Michelle Nunn, Sen. Jason Carter, Connie Stokes and other statewide candidates to be featured.

 

Atlanta, GA – The Democratic Party of Georgia will hold its quadrennial State Convention on Saturday, August, 9 in Dublin, Georgia at the DuBose Porter Regional Business and Industry Center. Senator Steve Henson and Representative Stacey Abrams will be co-chairing the event.

 

“We’re bringing our convention to Georgia’s heartland.” said Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter. “The selection of Laurens County to host this event should assure everyone that we will be working in all 159 counties. We have been and will be campaigning in the middle of Georgia and every corner of this state—North, South, East, and West.”

 

The purpose of the State Convention is to inspire and promote unity among Georgia Democrats in order to support and elect our nominees up and down the ballot to government offices at every level.

 

“As Chair, the most exciting part of the convention will be presenting our slate of statewide candidates. For months, our candidates have been making the case for Georgia Democrats,” concluded Chairman Porter. “The State Convention will give us an opportunity to speak with a unified voice—Republicans have ruined Georgia. They have wrecked education, job training, transportation, health care, and our environment. We have a better plan for our state’s future.”

 

A day full of events are scheduled, including speeches from Democratic statewide candidates, a BBQ lunch with live entertainment, votes on important resolutions, conducting the official business of the Democratic Party of Georgia, and general fellowship with unified and motivated Georgia Democrats.

 

 

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About Today’s Supreme Court Decision…

Today’s Supreme Court Decision, granting craft store giant Hobby Lobby the right to discriminate against women feels like another well-aimed shot in the gut.

 

As a woman, I constantly wear a target—and not by choice. Whether it’s a corporation arguing that its CFO’s religious preference against contraception is more important than my rights, or if it’s the Georgia’s Republican legislators doing all they can to keep me from safe, affordable, and judgment-free access to contraception, the simple fact that I’m a woman makes me a target. And this target I wear, that all women wear, is getting heavy.

 

When the Affordable Care Act became law it ensured that basic, preventative healthcare measures for women, like access to contraception, were covered by insurance and delivered sans co-pay. This made the owners of Hobby Lobby flip-out. You see, the family that founded the Hobby Lobby Corporation, and a variety of other for-profit retail stores, is part of a radical minority that doesn’t believe women should have access to contraception.

 

Today.

In 2014.

No Contraception.

(I can’t help but shake my head even typing that.)

The owners of Hobby Lobby filed suit seeking exactly what they got from our conservative court this morning—a decision that allows the religious beliefs of a corporation to trump the health care options of its individual employees.  Now your healthcare options could be determined by your boss, and not by you or your doctor.

 

Citizens United made corporations people. Today’s decision gave these ‘corporate people’ religion, and the right to hate and discriminate.

 

What does that mean here in Georgia? There are 31 Hobby Lobby stores in Georgia and possibly more places of business owned by this family throughout our state. Nearly 70% of their employees are women.

 

Today’s decision:

 

  • takes money out of the pocket of women and their families in Georgia and allows for-profit employers to deny contraception to women.
  • interferes in a fundamental way with a women’s ability to follow a treatment plan prescribed by her doctor (nearly 60% of women who use birth control pills do so for reasons other than preventing pregnancy—they are treating ovarian cysts, endometriosis, migraines, or working in addendum with chemotherapy, in hormone replacement therapy, etc.)
  • targets a woman’s ability to decide when and if she wants to become a parent.

 

Furthermore, this decision will no doubt embolden Republican legislators in Georgia who already seek to destroy a woman’s right to safe, comprehensive and affordable reproductive healthcare—including access to preventative measures, like contraception. One doesn’t have to look any further that the flurry of legislation they introduce year after year targeting women’s rights for proof.

 

Today’s decision hits the target we women are forced wear dead-on.  And this one really hurt. And it will continue to hurt every day moving forward until we can make a change.

 

Women don’t wear this target willingly.

 

So we need to fight back and work hard to put Democrats in power. We need to speak up now and then again and again. And most importantly- we, as Democrats, must vote.

 

Democrats will vote so that our state starts targeting failing education policies, government corruption, and toxic air and water. Democrats will vote to put a target on unfair wages, discrimination and on anyone who refuses to expand Medicaid.

 

Democrats will vote to remove this target on women—and we will win.

 

Rebecca Sig

 

 

 

 

Rebecca DeHart

Executive Director, Democratic Party of Georgia

Release: DPG Chair Releases Statement on Anniversary of Shelby v. Holder Decision

Release:  Wednesday, June 25, 2014                                                                                               

 

Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Releases Statement on Anniversary of Shelby v. Holder Decision

 

 

Atlanta, GA – Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter released the following statement in recognition of the one year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby v. Holder. The decision struck down a central portion of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

 

“Discrimination at the ballot box is very real and Congress must act immediately to fully restore the Voting Rights Act.

 

“By design, Election Day is a chance to be reminded that all men and women are created equal—it does not matter if you are rich or poor, black or white or brown, gay or straight, Ivy League-educated or an eighth grade dropout.

 

“The face of our state is rapidly changing and Republicans can see the writing on the wall. That’s why the GOP has sought to disenfranchise the elderly and people of color any given opportunity. And as they begin to lose more and more elections, they will continue to change the rules of the game.

 

“Voting is the building block of representative government—which has made America great for generations. And the concerted efforts by Republicans over the last several years to restrict access to the ballot is targeted at likely Democratic voters—seniors, those in rural areas, and people of color. And regardless of what Nathan Deal or Republican officials say, Georgia has a long history of disenfranchising these specific voting blocs.

 

“A vote for Democrats is a vote for better schools. A vote for Democrats is a vote for clean air and water. A vote for Democrats is a vote for expanded access to quality health care for all. These are the issues that Democrats stand for, voters know this, and the Republican Party cannot stand it. The best way for them to censor Democratic values is to prevent those who uphold those values from voting in the first place.

 

“The Democratic Party of Georgia will continue to work with our leaders and elected officials at the state and national level to enhance the franchise for access to the polls.”

 

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Memorial Day Message from Senator Ed Harbison

 

A Memorial Day Message from Senator Ed Harbison

 

 Columbus, GA – Today, Sen. Ed Harbison released the following statement in observance of Memorial Day.

 

“On this solemn day, we honor not only our fallen, but also the families of those lost defending our nation and its values. We owe a debt of gratitude to the loved ones of the servicemen and servicewomen who were left behind.

 

“One of the greatest honors we can give to the soldiers and families who have given the ultimate sacrifice is remembering our obligation to the living. There is much to be done in securing a future where every veteran has an opportunity to pursue an education and receive the quality health services he or she deserves.

 

“Let us honor the legacy of these brave men and women by renewing a call for sacrifice. Too often in modern times, generations drift from the selflessness embodied by those who were willing to lay down their lives for their fellow countrymen. My challenge for every Georgian this Memorial Day is to set aside their own self-interest and take more responsibility for their communities and country.”

 

Senator Ed Harbison has represented Georgia’s 15th Senate District since 1992. He currently serves on the Senate Banking and Financial, Insurance and Labor, Interstate Cooperation, Reapportionment and Redistricting, Regulated Industries and Utilities, and Veterans, Military and Homeland Security Committees.

 

Sen. Harbison served as a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and is a Purple Heart recipient.

Release: Chairman Porter’s Statement on Tuesday’s Primaries Results

Release:  Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Atlanta, GA – Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter released the following statements on the results of Tuesday’s primary election.

“First, I want to congratulate Michelle Nunn on becoming the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate. Georgia Democrats have selected a remarkable woman who represents our state’s desire to abandon the pettiness of Washington politics and find real solutions for the problems we face. The Georgia GOP has selected an out-of-touch executive and a Washington insider to represent their interests in this race. While David Perdue and Jack Kingston race to the right in the runoff, Michelle Nunn’s vision of a Georgia that works for everyone will continue to resonate with voters across the state.

“Statewide, Democrats have a ballot emblematic of the diversity that makes Georgia so exceptional. I commend Sen. Jason Carter, Connie Stokes, Greg Hecht, Robbin Shipp, Chris Irvin, Doreen Carter, Liz Johnson and Daniel Blackman for their dedication to bringing real change to Georgia. These public servants see that our state has been spiraling downward under Republican control and know that Georgia’s middle class families and small businesses are counting on them to correct the course.

“While the primary race for State School Superintendent will be decided in a July runoff, Georgia Democrats remain committed to one of our strongest values—a deep conviction to investing in public schools and job training.

“The fight for Georgia starts right now. We know that Georgia’s businesses will flourish with a healthy, skilled workforce and voters are tired of the Georgia GOP’s proven record of failure. Voters are ready for a government that operates in an honest and transparent manner. They’re ready for a government that invests in its children and works to expand opportunity for anyone that’s willing to work hard and play by the rules.

“With a diverse slate of candidates who will stand up for the middle class, help businesses grow, and put Georgians’ interests ahead of their own, Georgia Democrats are heading to the general election stronger than ever before. And we’re ready to deliver.”

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Georgia Democratic Leaders Mark 60th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education Decision

Release:  Saturday, May 7, 2014     

                                                                                     

Georgia Democratic Leaders Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education Decision

 

Atlanta, GA – Today, leaders of the Democratic Party of Georgia released the following statements in honor of the 60th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision, which prohibited racial segregation in our nation’s schools.

 

“Today, we are reminded that America is a nation discontent with the notion of oppression,” said Chairman DuBose Porter. “Often, the journey to equality is excruciatingly slow and seemingly unending. And our work in the fight for equality and tolerance is certainly unfinished. But this decision—which abandoned hatred and discrimination in favor of justice—demonstrates our nation’s desire to become a more perfect union.”

 

“It has been 60 years since the Brown v. Board of Education decision. The decisions pave the way for voting rights, and through the courage of many, a generation of children became the leaders of our pursuit of justice,” said Democratic House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams. “Though we are far from a full integrated educational system, this anniversary remains a lodestar for those committed to advocate for and fight against prejudice and injustice wherever we find it.”

 

Senate Minority Leader Steve Henson marked the anniversary with a call to action, adding “On this historic date, we are reminded that it is required of us to ensure that every American should have a chance for a quality education. We must not allow inequality to creep into our public system or to let any child be left behind.”

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Rep. Pedro Marin – Georgia Democrats Walk the Walk with Engagement

The following is an op-ed published in the AJC by DPG Vice Chair of Constituency Groups Rep. Pedro Marin.

 

Georgia Democrats Walk the Walk with Engagement

 

Georgia Republicans have a serious problem—they continue to alienate huge swaths of the electorate. This alienation has been so intense that after the 2012 election cycle specialists were brought in to help them reexamine the Republican platform and reframe their messaging. But rather than take the advice they were given and change their offensive policies toward women, people of color and young people, Republicans have continued their pattern of superficial changes, hiring a few minority outreach staff and holding trainings to teach candidates how to appear politically correct.

 

If the Georgia GOP’s “new” engagement plan sounds familiar, that’s because Republicans promised to listen to key constituencies and change their ways in 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012. Sure it sounds good on the campaign trail, but Georgians are smart enough to know this maneuvering is merely window dressing.

 

Just this year, Republican lawmakers authored and passed a bill to further restrict women’s health care decisions. Rather than trust women, Republicans chose to strip away their privacy rights.

 

Immigrants remain a favorite target of Republican intolerance. This year, a majority of Senate Republicans pushed legislation that would deny driver’s licenses to immigrants who have been granted legal presence under deferred action, or who held temporary drivers licenses. Senate Republicans also proposed an amendment to Georgia’s Constitution that would mandate the written portion of the driven exam to be printed only in English. Not only is this kind of fear-based legislation mean-spirited—it’s an assault on free speech, one affects hundreds of immigrant families legally in the United States.

 

There’s also the matter of disenfranchisement at the ballot box. Over the last several years, the Georgia GOP has continuously eroded one of our most fundamental rights—our right to vote. In 2005, Republicans led the charge to pass discriminatory voter ID legislation. Just this year, Republicans tried to shorten early voting time for everyone from 21 days to six days.

 

My party—the Democratic Party—is one of inclusion.

 

Democrats trust women to make their own decisions.

 

Furthermore, this year, 10 of our 15 candidates for the state’s executive branch are women. Roughly half of my Democratic colleagues in the state House are women. Seven of 18 Democrats in the Senate are women, compared to just one Republican woman the GOP caucus. Many of these Democratic women are in positions of leadership.

 

Democrats have fought and will continue to fight to expand ballot access. We believe that voter restrictions disproportionately harm African-Americans, Latinos, elderly, women, the poor and young people.

 

Democrats have learned that inclusion and diversity are not boxes to be checked off, and they certainly aren’t marketing programs to be handled by a few hired specialists. Appealing to a diverse citizenry means you stand up for and respect the things they believe in. Trying to retrofit diversity into a stale and exclusionary agenda will not work. Only through meaningful dialogue and a party platform that looks like 2014, not 1914, will the GOP be successful in their experiment with diversity.

 

This essay was originally published in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution May 8, 2014

 

Representative Pedro Marin serves as the Democratic Party of Georgia’s Vice Chair for Constituency Groups and represents the citizens of State House District 96, which includes portions of the cities of Duluth & Norcross in Gwinnett County. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2002, and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Economic Development & Tourism, and Industry and Labor committees.

 

Highlights from Jefferson-Jackson 2014

Sen. Jason Carter at the 2014 Jefferson-Jackson Dinner from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

James Carville Speaks at Jefferson-Jackson 2014 from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Herman Russell Receives the 2014 John Lewis Lifetime Achievement Award from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Connie Stokes Leads Pledge of Allegiance at Jefferson-Jackson 2014 from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Leader Stacey Abrams Honoring Georgia House Dems at Jefferson-Jackson 2014 from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Leader Steve Henson Honoring GA Senate Dems at Jefferson-Jackson 2014 from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Dr. Raphael Warnock Delivers Invocation at Jefferson-Jackson 2014 from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

DPG Officers Recognize DPG Officials and Candidates from Georgia Democrat on Vimeo.

Release: Senator Jason Carter Qualifies to run for Governor of Georgia

Chairman Porter “proud to have Jason Carter on the ballot”

 Release:  Wednesday, March 5, 2014    

Atlanta, GA – Today, Senator Jason Carter qualified to run for Governor of Georgia. Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter released the following statement.

“Senator Jason Carter has pushed education to the forefront of this year’s debate and will be a true champion for working families,” said Chairman DuBose Porter. “Georgia Democrats are proud to have Jason Carter on the ballot for Governor.”

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Why Don’t Republicans Trust Women?

Why Don’t Republicans Trust Women?

 

 Georgia Republicans are at it again, targeting women and taking away our rights. And I’m fed up.

 

Monday, our State Senate will vote on SB 98, a bill that will prohibit any health plan sold through the health care exchange from providing abortion coverage, for any reason except for an unconstitutional definition of “medical emergency.” It also bans abortion coverage for every single person covered by the state health benefit plan in this state.

 

I could go on and on about the awful intricacies of this bill—how it’s unconstitutional, how it will leave victims of horrific crimes without options, how it unfairly targets low-income women and their families, how all its authors are men and it was vetted by an all-male committee… And believe me, there is a lot wrong with this bill, and all of that deserves to be aired. But instead, I’m going to share with you why I’m taking this latest assault so personally. And then I’m going to share with you a glimmer of hope.

 

This week, I’ll be a happy 36 weeks pregnant. Like my mother and sisters before me, I have now experienced, and continue to do so, the highs and lows of pregnancy.  Specifically, I’ve felt the fear, the absolute terror, of having to endure extra tests to see if my pregnancy was healthy.

 

Luckily, my son appears to be in good health. But that’s not the case for a lot of women. Unfortunately, a lot can go wrong during pregnancy, and for that reason termination may become a necessity.

 

And it should be covered by insurance.

 

As of December 2012, more than 650,000 people were covered by the State Health Benefit Plan—and the average annual pay for a state employee was $20,548. Now imagine a woman, making $20k a year, who finds out at her anatomy scan that her child is anencephalic, or without a brain, and will die at birth. How can she possibly afford the thousands of dollars that surgery will cost because Georgia Republicans think they know what’s better for her and her family than she does? Their absolute callous disregard may force women to become walking tombs.

 

Georgia Republicans have no right telling us what medical procedure we may or may not have. Because the truth of the matter is, not one of the men pushing SB 98 has experienced pregnancy. And not one of those men deserves the authority to make a decision for me or any other woman. And we need to call our legislators every day telling them as much, take our anger to facebook and twitter and talk about our rights with our friends and colleagues.

 

Simply put, we can’t let the Republicans win.

 

Because there is hope. And for me, my hope is in the Democratic Party right here in Georgia.

 

I was seven months pregnant when I started on the job as the Executive Director of the Democratic Party, and I can tell you that the leadership here didn’t bat an eye.  It never crossed our Chairman’s mind that my pregnancy should be seen as a liability to my employability. Instead, he stated we should do more to model how maternity leave should be for women across our state.

 

Friends, this is not a small distinction. When it comes to truly supporting women and families—our parties could not be more different.

 

Republicans are fighting against contraception coverage, against access to health care, against privacy rights, against equal pay laws and against laws that keep women safe from discrimination.

 

Democrats are fighting for laws that protect and empower women, laws that preserve our rights to health care, demand equal pay for equal work and laws that prevent discrimination.

 

Our parties could not be more different when it comes to supporting women, and I’m so proud to be on the side that seeks to lift women up, rather than tear them down.

 

Monday, I’ll be down at the Capitol and I hope you will join me. Keep an eye out for me. I’ll be the really pregnant lady fighting back.

 

Sincerely,

 

Rebecca DeHart

Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Georgia

 

Veterans Day Message from Rep. Scott Holcomb

Scott in Bosnia

 

Veterans Day is different from every other national holiday.  We’re not remembering someone or something from long ago.  Veterans Day honors the heroes who live among us.  It is about remembering to say thank you.  It is also a time to pay homage to the strength that makes America the greatest nation on earth.

 

Veterans embody the spirit of our nation.  They offered themselves in service, willing to give their time, their comfort and potentially their lives for the benefit of our country and its goals.

 

Military service teaches veterans fundamental truths about life. Foremost among them is that it is not just about you. And combat is the ultimate teacher.  Combat veterans know, in a way that few others do, the meaning of real selflessness – to be willing to give your life to save another.

 

Veterans carry this ethos of selfless service with them for the rest of their days.  And when veterans return home, they help provide the steel spine that abides at the center of American communities.

 

The great leap achieved by our Founding Fathers was the belief that the heroism that exists in the heart of every soldier could also be found in the heart of every citizen.  Our nation begins with the idea that each of us can and should think and act for ourselves, but none of us should think and act only for ourselves.

 

On this Veterans Day, as we say thank you to all who served and are serving our nation, let us also rededicate ourselves to the veterans’ example of service.

 

Thank you to all who served and who are serving, and to your families.  God bless America.

 

Rep. Scott Holcomb

 

Scott Holcomb serves as the State Representative for District 81. A veteran, Scott served for six years in the Air National Guard and six years on active duty with the U.S. Army. He deployed overseas for Operations Joint Forge (Bosnia), Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and Iraqi Freedom.

 

Visit his website at votescottholcomb.com and follow him on Twitter at @RepScottHolcomb