Painting a Picture of Success
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp echoed his economic message from his 2022 reelection and his pledge to put “Georgians First” from his 2018 campaign. On Thursday, Kemp highlighted his policies as drivers of opportunity and prosperity. He called on voters to reject “Washington D.C.” due to high inflation and overregulation. Kemp emphasized the achievements at the state level, making Georgia an even greater place to live, work, and raise a family. In contrast, he pointed out the hardships brought upon every home by Washington, D.C.
Contrasting Economic Records
Kemp contrasted his economic record, including low unemployment rates, significant industrial announcements, and billions in tax rebates and cuts, with inflation and high prices that he said are squeezing Georgians. He emphasized that these are the people left behind by Washington, D.C. According to Kemp, the federal response to challenges is to spend more, regulate more, tax more, and come up with new government programs, which he believes do not effectively address the problems.
Political Profile and Future Plans
Governor Kemp has built a political profile as a steady conservative who doesn’t alienate moderates. He has overcome various challenges, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, withstanding Donald Trump’s attempt to derail his reelection, and defeating Democratic superstar Stacey Abrams for a second time. While enjoying the fruits of his second term, including attending the World Economic Forum for the second year in a row, Kemp is also tending to his political organization, indicating potential future plans. His organization aims to support Republican candidates in this year’s state legislative elections and could potentially back Kemp if he decides to run for U.S. Senate or even president.
Rallying Republicans and Dismaying Democrats
In line with his political future, Kemp framed his themes to rally Republicans and dismay Democrats. He made his strongest push yet for a school voucher bill, emphasizing support for a much-disputed police and fire training center. Kemp voiced full-throated support for the failed bill that would have provided parents with a $6,500 educational savings account for private school tuition or homeschooling supplies. He stressed that the government’s role is to support families in making the best choices for their children. Additionally, Kemp highlighted the training center, honoring state Trooper Jerry Parrish in his speech. Kemp’s aides believe this issue makes some Democrats look anti-police.
Supporting Law Enforcement and Addressing Mental Health
Kemp emphasized his support for law enforcement by proposing an additional $3,000 pay raise for state law enforcement officers, including troopers and prison guards. He also called on lawmakers to repay police officers’ college loans. The governor promised increased spending on mental health, focusing on increasing crisis center beds and providing better compensation for mental health workers and service providers. Furthermore, Kemp proposed allocating $500 million to reduce the unpaid liability in the pension fund that covers most non-education state employees, aiming to reduce the state’s debt.
A Balanced Approach to Healthcare
Governor Kemp defended his record on healthcare, highlighting his partial expansion of Medicaid, which has come under scrutiny for signing up fewer than 3,000 people over its first six months. Instead, Kemp focused on his support for subsidies that have helped bring down premiums and attract more insurers to offer coverage in rural areas of the state. Notably, Kemp did not outline a position on whether Georgia should make a fuller expansion of Medicaid to low-income adults, as state House Speaker Jon Burns expressed interest in exploring.