Bottoms files for Governor run; Kemp signs education bills; Funding cuts for research

Summary

Georgia Today Podcast Summary Release Date: April 28, 2025
Host: Peter Biello

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Governor Race Heats Up: Keisha Lance Bottoms Joins the Fray

Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has officially entered the gubernatorial race by filing paperwork to form a campaign committee. Speaking on her decision, Bottoms expressed optimism about her candidacy, stating she "looks forward to making an announcement in the coming weeks" (00:50). Bottoms, who served as mayor from 2018 to 2022 and later as an advisor to President Biden, faces competition from current Atlanta State Senator Jason Estevez and Metro Atlanta Democratic Congresswoman Lucy McBath, who has since suspended her campaign to focus on her husband.

On the Republican side, Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones are prominent figures expected to vie for the nomination. With incumbent Governor Brian Kemp term-limited and unable to seek re-election, the race promises to be fiercely competitive. There is also speculation about Kemp’s potential Senate run, although he has yet to make an official announcement.

Governor Kemp Advances Education with New Legislation

Governor Brian Kemp made significant strides in education policy by signing seven new education bills into law during a ceremony at the state Capitol. Among these is House Bill 268, a landmark legislation aimed at enhancing school safety. This bill mandates the installation of panic buttons in classrooms and honors Ricky Aspinwall, a coach who tragically lost his life in the Apalachee High School shooting in Barrow County last year. Ricky's father, Richard Aspinwall, attended the signing ceremony, poignantly stating, “I don’t want anybody else to have to go through this. You see it happening all over the country and it's gotta stop” (02:00).

Other notable bills include:

• Ban on Transgender Girls in Girls' Sports: This controversial measure restricts participation based on gender identity.
• Increased Literacy Initiatives: Aimed at improving reading skills across the state’s student population.
• Investigations into Chronic Absenteeism: Programs designed to address and reduce absentee rates in schools.

These measures reflect Governor Kemp’s commitment to addressing both safety and academic performance within Georgia’s educational system.

NRA’s 2025 Annual Meeting Draws Thousands to Atlanta

The National Rifle Association (NRA) held its annual meeting at the Georgia World Congress Center, spanning 14 acres of exhibits featuring guns and accessories. GPB’s Sarah Kalis reported that the event attracted thousands of gun enthusiasts nationwide. Dusty Clements, owner of Brothers Precision Firearms in Warner Robins, remarked, “Here in the state of Georgia, we already got the constitutional carry, you know, so we don't have to have a carry license. And, you know, I wish every state would go to that” (02:53). Clements emphasized his satisfaction with the current state of the Second Amendment in Georgia.

Interestingly, this year marks the first NRA annual meeting in a decade without the attendance of former President Donald Trump, signaling possible shifts within the organization’s leadership dynamics.

Public Health Research Faces Federal Budget Cuts

Public health research in Georgia is under threat as the federal government seeks to reduce its national budget. This development could result in the cancellation or postponement of millions of dollars in funding for several of Georgia’s universities. Sophie Gradis from GPB discusses with Dan Whitaker, Associate Dean for Research at Georgia State University’s School of Public Health, the broader implications:

“The topics are as broad as public health itself. There was even a case made for mapping public toilet access in Atlanta” (03:40). Whitaker highlighted that while GSU’s research budget is smaller compared to other universities, approximately two-thirds rely on federal funding. The proposed cuts could force significant strategic shifts within the institution.

Graduate student Arielle Dube shared her concerns about the potential impact on job markets and the future of public health initiatives: “I do feel a bit threatened, like job market wise” (04:13). However, Dube remains hopeful, believing that the current administration’s influence is temporary and that sustained efforts will continue to support public health research initiatives once the political landscape changes.

BlackRock Foundation Invests in Georgia’s Workforce Development

In a significant boost to workforce development, the BlackRock Foundation pledged a $1 million investment to the Technical College System of Georgia. This funding aims to provide skills training to over 1,000 Georgians, enhancing opportunities in the manufacturing and construction sectors. Peter Biello highlighted this initiative as a strategic move to address the skills gap and prepare the workforce for the evolving demands of these critical industries.

Invasive Asian Needle Ants Pose New Threat to Georgian Yards

As spring ushers in warmer weather, residents are cautioned about the invasive Asian needle ant. Dr. Dan Sutter, an entomologist from the University of Georgia, explained, “From a distance, it might look like any other ant, but the Asian needle ant is unique and you won't see them marching in a line up a tree” (05:17). Unlike other ants, they travel alone and possess a venomous bite that can lead to anything from a painful sting to severe allergic reactions.

Preventative measures include maintaining clear lawns, removing debris, and utilizing pest control treatments. Dr. Sutter advises contacting local Extension agents for identification and assistance if an infestation is suspected.

Liberty County Reports Rabid Bobcat Attack

The Health Department in Liberty County has issued a warning following a rabies-positive bobcat attack in Midway. The victim is currently receiving medical care, and officials urge residents to avoid contact with unfamiliar wildlife and ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies. Peter Biello provided updates on the situation, emphasizing public safety and awareness.

Atlanta Braves and Outkast Make Headlines

Sports Update:
The Atlanta Braves are set to begin a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies, hoping to rebound from a recent 64-lose streak against the Arizona Diamondbacks. New acquisition Alex Verdugo has emerged as a key player, batting .333 despite limited at-bats, potentially shifting the team's offensive dynamics.

Music News:
Iconic Atlanta rap duo Outkast has been announced for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony, to be held in Los Angeles, will see Andre 3000 and Big Boi join esteemed artists like Cyndi Lauper and Joe Cocker in the 2025 class. Outkast, celebrated for their innovative contributions to hip hop and their six Grammy Awards, will be honored for their enduring legacy and groundbreaking work.

Conclusion

Today's episode of Georgia Today provided a comprehensive overview of significant political developments, education reforms, public health challenges, and cultural highlights pertinent to Georgia. From the burgeoning gubernatorial race featuring prominent figures like Keisha Lance Bottoms to Governor Kemp’s proactive stance on education, listeners were given an in-depth look at the state’s evolving landscape. Additionally, updates on public health funding, invasive species, and notable achievements in sports and music underscored the diverse range of topics that impact Georgians daily.

For more detailed information and continuous updates, subscribers are encouraged to listen to future episodes and visit GPB News.

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Notable Quotes:

• Richard Aspinwall: “I don’t want anybody else to have to go through this. You see it happening all over the country and it's gotta stop” (02:00)
• Dusty Clements: “Here in the state of Georgia, we already got the constitutional carry, you know, so we don't have to have a carry license. And, you know, I wish every state would go to that” (02:53)
• Arielle Dube: “I do feel a bit threatened, like job market wise” (04:13)

Transcript

[Dr. Dan Sutter]

DBHDD is urging Georgians to store and lock away all medications to prevent theft and keep them away from children and pets. Old medications can be disposed of at Dropbox locations. Dropbox locations can be [e-mail].

[Peter Biello]

Welcome to the Georgia Today Podcast. Here we bring you the latest reports from the GPB newsroom. On today's episode, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms makes plans to run for governor, governor Brian Kemp signs several education bills into law, and public health research is the latest target of the federal government's efforts to reduce the national budget. We just have to keep plugging away and do what we do, what we can do with the resources we have available. Today is Monday, April 28th. I'm Peter Biello and this is Georgia Today. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms is taking steps to run for governor. Bottoms said today she's filed paperwork to form a campaign committee and looks forward to making an announcement in the coming weeks. Bottoms served as mayor from 2018 to 2022 and then served as an advisor to President Biden. Atlanta State Senator Jason Estevez is already in the race. Metro Atlanta Democratic Congresswoman Lucy McBath also filed paperwork to run, but suspended her campaign to focus on her hus. The Republican race for governor so far includes Attorney General Chris Carr, with Lt. Gov. Burt Jones widely expected to run as well. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp is term limited and cannot run again and has not announced whether he'll run for U.S. senate. Governor Kemp signed seven education bills during a ceremony this afternoon at the state Capitol. Among those was House Bill 268, aimed at increasing school safety. A section of the bill will install panic buttons in classrooms, and it is named after Ricky Aspinwall, a coach who died in the Apalachee High School shooting in Barrow county last year. Richard Aspinwall, Ricky's father, attended the signing ceremony.

[Arielle Dube]

I don't want anybody else to have to go through this. You see it happening all over the country and it's gotta stop. Some way or another, it's got to stop.

[Peter Biello]

Other bills signed include a ban on transgender girls participating in girls sports, increased literacy initiatives and investigations into chronic absenteeism. Foreign the National Rifle association held its annual meeting in Atlanta over the weekend. GPB's Sarah Kalis reports.

[Sarah Kalis]

The 2025 NRA exhibits included 14 acres of guns and accessories at the Georgia World Congress center in Atlanta. The event drew thousands of gun enthusiasts from around the country. Dusty Clements owns Brothers Precision Firearms in Warner Robbins. This year marks his fifth NRA gathering, and he says he feels good about the state of the Second Amendment.

[Arielle Dube]

Here in the state of Georgia, we already got the constitutional carry, you know, so we don't have to have a carry license. And, you know, I wish every state would go to that.

[Sarah Kalis]

But this is the first NRA annual meeting in 10 years that President Donald Trump has not attended. For GPB News, I'm Sarah Kalis in Atlanta.

[Peter Biello]

Public health research has been caught in the crosshairs as the federal government tries to reduce its budget. That means millions of dollars could be canceled or put on hold for many of Georgia's universities. GPB's Sophie Gradis has more from one school feeling the squeeze.

[Dan Whitaker]

At Georgia State University's third annual Public Health Research Day, students and faculty presented projects on tobacco use, HIV prevention and mental health. As Dan Whitaker, associate dean for research at the School of Public Health, puts.

[Peter Biello]

It, I mean, the topics are as broad as public health itself.

[Dan Whitaker]

There was even a case made for mapping public toilet access in Atlanta.

[Peter Biello]

Very disappointed on what that looks like.

[Dan Whitaker]

Because sanitation is public health, too. GSU's research budget is much smaller than other universities, but around two thirds of it is federally funded. Whitaker says recent cuts mean they will have to pivot.

[Peter Biello]

We just have to keep plugging away and do what we can do with the resources we have available.

[Dan Whitaker]

Some in the classroom are feeling the tension, like graduate student Arielle Dube.

[Peter Biello]

I do feel a bit threatened, like job market wise.

[Dan Whitaker]

She knows people swept up in the reduction in force at health agencies. But Dube's not discouraged.

[Peter Biello]

For me, it's knowing that our administration isn't forever. I'll still be here, you know, when.

[Dan Whitaker]

It'S over, when she could be needed even more, she says. For GPB News, I'm Sophie Gradis in Atlanta.

[Peter Biello]

The nonprofit foundation affiliated with the world's largest asset management company is investing a million dollars in manufacturing and construction workforce development in Georgia. The BlackRock foundation today announced the gift to the Technical College System of Georgia. The new funding is expected to provide access to skills training to more than 1,000 Georgians. As the weather warms up and you spend more time outdoors, keep an eye out for the Asian needle ant, an invasive species of ant that can cause serious problems in your yard. GPB's Chase McGee has more.

[Dr. Dan Sutter]

From a distance, it might look like any other ant, but the Asian needle ant is unique and you won't see them marching in a line up a tree. University of Georgia, Oregon entomologist Dr. Dan Sutter says these ants travel alone and they have a venomous bite that can result in a simple sting or in some people, more serious problems.

[Peter Biello]

Last year I fielded three questions from homeowners who suffered anaphylactic shock from being stung by this ant.

[Dr. Dan Sutter]

Not all people who get bit will go and shock, but their bites are painful and as soon as they fade, the pain can come back. Dr. Sutor says you can prevent them by keeping lawns clear of debris using preventative pest control treatments. And if you find an ant you need to identify, contact your county Extension agent. For GPB News, I'm Chase McGee.

[Peter Biello]

The Health Department in southeast Georgia's Liberty county is alerting residents and visitors that a bobcat has tested positive for rabies. In a statement today, health department officials said a person was attacked by a bobcat in Midway on Thursday. The animal tested positive for rabies and the individual is receiving follow up medical care. The officials remind residents to avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and to keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccination. The Braves kick off a three game series against the Colorado Rockies out West tonight. The Braves are coming off a 64 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks yesterday. Alex Verdugo, who came over from the Yankees on a late offseason deal, has been a surprising bright spot for an Atlanta team marked by a disappointing offense. He finished yesterday with four hits and two RBIs and so far is batting.333, although with far fewer at bats than the rest of the regular lineup. That said, he could stand out on a team where only one other player is hitting above.300. Designated hitter Marcel Ozuna. Bryce Elder will get the start for the Braves tonight in Colorado. The Atlanta rap duo outkast will be inducted into the Rock and Roll hall of Fame. The announcement last night puts the pair Andre 3000 and Big Boi in the same 2025 class of inductees as Cyndi Lauper and Joe Cocker, among others. Outkast has six Grammy Awards and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of hip hop. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles and that's a wrap. Thank you very much for listening to Georgia today. More coming your way tomorrow though, so make sure you subscribe. That way we'll pop up automatically in your podcast feed. And don't forget to check out gpb.org news for the latest updates. Your feedback powers this podcast. Send your tips as well as your suggestions for improvement to Georgia today. Pb.org I'm Peter Biello. Thanks again for listening. We'll see you tomorrow.

[Arielle Dube]

Kickoff For Super Bowl 34 the Titans Rams 2000 Super Bowl an instant classic. Hours after the game, two men were stabbed in the street. Accused of being in the middle. The greatest linebacker in NFL history, Ray Lewis, and two friends are charged with murder. The nation's eyes were glued to their televisions. The trial concluded, and the verdicts came back not guilty. What you can learn from all this is that big cases make for big mistakes. Look what happened to O.J. simpson. And look what happened in Ray Lewis. Lewis went on to have a Hall of Fame career. But questions around that night in Atlanta still remain. So where do you think they're hiding?

[Dr. Dan Sutter]

They know what happened it. They know exactly what happened.

[Arielle Dube]

After 20 years, it's time to get to the bottom line. Truth from Tenderfoot tv. I'm Tim Livingston, and this is the Raven. Listen for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcast.