Georgia Today Podcast Summary Episode: 'Hands Off' Protests; Masters Week in Augusta; Shrimpers Support Trump Tariffs
Release Date: April 7, 2025
Host: Peter Biello, Georgia Public Broadcasting

1. Nationwide 'Hands Off' Protests Sweep Georgia

Over the weekend, Georgia witnessed vibrant demonstrations as part of the nationwide 'Hands Off' protests targeting prominent figures Elon Musk and President Donald Trump. Activists converged in more than a dozen cities, voicing their concerns over leadership and its impact on democracy.

• Atlanta Rally:
  In Atlanta, thousands marched from Piedmont Park in midtown to Liberty Plaza near the state Capitol. Organizer Alina Williams emphasized the scale, noting, “We had to find extra space for the people who overfilled the park” (01:15). Participant Emma Auer highlighted the enduring nature of these protests in Athens, stating, “Athens has seen several protests organized by Democratic activists since President Trump's inauguration” (02:13).

• Savannah Demonstration:
  Savannah’s Forsyth Park saw hundreds rallying past federal buildings, with Christy York Wooten expressing a commitment to democracy: “I'm here today in support of us continuing to have a democracy” (02:13).

• Macon Gathering:
  In Macon, approximately 500 people assembled in a downtown park. Retired Methodist Minister Gary Sterrett shared his worries: “I worry about my grandchildren and don't know how to talk to my friends about those fears” (04:11). Grant Blankenship further articulated the sentiment, saying, “I'm a tired construction worker from Ohio,... I don't understand why our union guys would support him because he don't care nothing about nobody that's not rich” (02:32).

2. Masters Week in Augusta Faces Weather Challenges

Masters Week, a pivotal event for Augusta’s economy, encountered unexpected hurdles as rain forced the suspension of practice sessions at Augusta National Golf Club.

• Impact on Golfer Activities:
  Few players, including Keegan Bradley and Thomas Detry, conducted solitary practice rounds amidst the threat of thunderstorms (04:11).

• Economic Significance:
  Chase McGee reported on the economic implications, highlighting that Mary’s Home Furnishings in Augusta relies heavily on the Masters, attributing up to 40% of their annual business to the tournament (05:27). This influx is crucial for local businesses, especially those recovering from last year's devastating Hurricane Helene.

3. Georgia Shrimp Farmers Applaud Trump’s Tariff Policies

The Trump administration’s new tariffs on imported shrimp have been met with enthusiasm by Georgia’s shrimp harvesters, aiming to level the playing field against foreign competition.

• Tariff Details:
  The tariffs, ranging from 10% to 46% based on the country of origin, target the majority of shrimp sold in the U.S., which is approximately 95% imported (06:15).

• Farmer Perspectives:
  John Wallace, owner of Anchored Shrimp Company, praised the tariffs: “Create a level playing field to where we feel we can compete, make a living... just be a small family owned business” (06:31). Wallace also addressed potential consumer price increases, acknowledging that foreign shrimpers often benefit from low prices through practices like forced labor and banned antibiotics.

4. Georgia Legislature Concludes Session Amidst Unfinished Business

The Georgia legislative session concluded without passing several contentious bills, leaving significant legislation in limbo for the next session.

• Failed Legislation:
  Proposed bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools, restrictions on puberty blockers for transgender teenagers, limits on school zone speeding cameras, and changes to election laws did not secure the necessary votes to pass (07:08).

• Political Reactions:
  Lt. Gov. Burt Jones remained optimistic, stating, “We've already gotten all our priorities done” (07:08), while Speaker of the House John Burns noted the Senate’s decision to adjourn, emphasizing the chamber’s focus on policy over politics.

5. Landmark Settlement for Migrant Workers in Savannah

A Savannah warehouse operator, E. Green Transport, has agreed to a settlement exceeding half a million dollars in back wages and damages to nearly fifty migrant workers who alleged widespread abuse.

• Case Overview:
  The workers, some without legal work authorization, accused the company of wage withholding, retaliation, and other unfair practices. Attorney Alessandra Stevens highlighted the case’s success due to the workers' self-advocacy: “They organized together... to stage strikes” (08:33).

• Worker Rights:
  Stevens emphasized that "workers have rights regardless of legal status," expressing concern that many may fear retaliation or deportation if they push back against abuse.

6. Upcoming Events and Announcements

• Bragg Jam Music Festival:
  The annual Bragg Jam Music Festival in Macon has unveiled its 2025 lineup, featuring headliners American Aquarium and Susto, along with over two dozen other acts. Scheduled for July 26th, the festival is one of the city’s largest tourism events.

• Delta Air Lines Expansion:
  Delta Air Lines announced its largest winter schedule to date, launching non-stop services from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Additionally, Delta plans to increase flights to Punta Cana, St. Thomas, and other premier beach destinations, enhancing travel options for Georgia residents (07:55).

Conclusion

In this episode of Georgia Today, host Peter Biello and the GPB News team delved into the dynamic landscape of Georgia’s socio-political climate, economic challenges, and cultural events. From passionate protests advocating for democratic integrity to significant economic shifts impacting local industries, the episode offered a comprehensive overview of the issues shaping Georgia today. Additionally, upcoming events like the Masters Tournament and the Bragg Jam Music Festival highlight the state's vibrant community spirit. For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to visit gpb.org/news.

Notable Quotes:

• Alina Williams (Atlanta Protester): “We had to find extra space for the people who overfilled the park.” (01:15)
• John Wallace (Shrimp Farmer): “Create a level playing field to where we feel we can compete, make a living... just be a small family owned business.” (06:31)
• Gary Sterrett (Retired Minister): “I worry about my grandchildren and don't know how to talk to my friends about those fears.” (04:11)
• Emma Auer (Athens Protester): “Athens has seen several protests organized by Democratic activists since President Trump's inauguration.” (02:13)

For additional information and to stay updated, visit gpb.org/news and subscribe to the Georgia Today podcast.