Georgia Today Podcast Summary
Release Date: June 9, 2025
Host: Orlando Montoya
1. Georgia Republican State Convention in Dalton
The Georgia Republican Party concluded its state convention in Dalton over the weekend, emphasizing ideological purity and unwavering loyalty to former President Donald Trump. The convention saw the reelection of party chairman Josh McCune and featured speeches from several candidates vying for upcoming federal and state offices in 2026.
Notable Quote:
"We need to stop the left from turning Georgia into the next California. We need to defend the America first agenda that President Trump ignited," stated Dahlonega State Senator Steve Gooch at [01:15].
The two-day event largely adhered to expected outcomes, with no surprise announcements regarding new campaigns. The focus remained on consolidating the party's base and preparing for high-stakes elections ahead.
2. Public Service Commission Election Faces Low Voter Turnout
The election for Georgia's Public Service Commission experienced markedly low voter engagement, with fewer than 36,000 ballots cast—representing approximately half of 1% of the state's active voters. This election marks the first time in five years that commissioners in two districts are up for election, following a lawsuit that previously delayed the process.
The Public Service Commission, currently composed entirely of Republicans, plays a pivotal role in regulating utilities, influencing electricity rates, energy policies, and supporting booming sectors like data centers.
3. Rising Measles Cases in Georgia
Georgia is witnessing a slight increase in measles cases, now totaling five this year. The latest case involves an unvaccinated resident from metro Atlanta who was exposed to a confirmed measles case in May. In comparison, there were six cases in 2024, indicating a concerning trend for public health officials.
4. Changes to COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be recommended for healthy children and pregnant women. This decision has raised concerns among individuals suffering from long-term complications of COVID-19, commonly referred to as Long Covid.
Notable Discussion: Ellen Eldredge reported on the personal impact of these changes:
"A chronic condition experienced after coronavirus infection has left many people unable to work and ineligible for disability," at [03:36].
Alan Weintraub, a former physician from Newnan, shared his struggles:
"My ongoing symptoms forced me to quit practicing medicine, and I question changes to the vaccine guidance for people," at [03:57].
Additionally, a top COVID vaccine advisor from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta resigned following the shift in vaccine recommendations, heightening concerns about public health implications.
5. New Medical Facility for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Macon
A pioneering medical facility is set to open in Macon, Georgia, dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Operated by River Edge Behavioral Health in collaboration with Mercer University's School of Medicine, the center will provide both inpatient crisis care and outpatient services under one roof—the only facility of its kind in the United States.
The inpatient services commence this week, with outpatient services scheduled to launch later in the summer. This comprehensive approach aims to offer immediate and continuous care, addressing a critical need within the community.
6. Medicaid Coverage Threatened by Federal Reconciliation Bill
Senator Raphael Warnock warned that Georgia residents, particularly children, could lose Medicaid coverage if the Trump administration's backed reconciliation bill passes both the House and Senate. The proposed bill seeks to implement stricter eligibility criteria, including work requirements, increased co-pays, and more rigorous eligibility checks.
Senator Warnock emphasized:
"So they're literally taking health care from children and then burdening those same children with the huge national debt," at [05:35].
The White House, however, argues that these changes are necessary to prevent waste and abuse, thereby protecting taxpayer dollars.
7. Efforts to Double Volunteerism through Points of Light Foundation
The Points of Light Foundation, an Atlanta-based nonprofit founded by former President George H.W. Bush, announced an ambitious campaign to increase volunteerism in the United States. The organization aims to double the number of annual volunteers from 75 million to 150 million within the next decade. This initiative seeks to transform how Americans engage with charitable organizations, especially in the face of federal funding cuts that threaten the financial stability of many nonprofits.
8. Q Cells Expands into Solar Panel Recycling in Northwest Georgia
South Korean solar panel manufacturer Q Cells announced plans to enter the solar panel recycling business, expanding its existing campus in Bartow County, northwest Georgia. Although specific details regarding job creation and investment amounts are yet to be disclosed, this move signifies a strategic diversification. Comparatively, the new Q Cells facility appears smaller than Solar Cycle's planned plant in neighboring Polk County.
9. Warner Bros. Discovery to Split into Two Separate Companies
Warner Bros. Discovery revealed plans to divide into two distinct entities later this year. The spinoff will separate the company's cable networks, including Atlanta-based CNN, from its streaming and studio operations, such as HBO. This restructuring occurs amidst ongoing instability in the entertainment industry and follows the merger and subsequent split involving AT&T three years prior.
10. "Maybe Happy Ending" Wins Six Tony Awards
The musical Maybe Happy Ending achieved significant acclaim by winning six awards at the Tony Awards, including Best New Musical. Originating in Seoul in 2016, the show made its English-language debut at the Alliance Theater in Atlanta in 2020. The musical portrays a whimsical romance between robots in a futuristic Korea, and its success highlights Georgia's growing influence in the national theater scene.
Theater's Social Media Highlights:
"We knew this show was special and we are so thrilled that the world agrees," read a post following the awards at [07:45].
11. U.S. Soccer Constructs National Training Center in Fayette County
U.S. Soccer has reached a construction milestone with the completion of its National Training Center in Metro Atlanta's Fayette County. The 200-acre facility, which includes 13 grass fields, two turf fields, and two sand fields, is now topped out and is on schedule for completion by spring 2026, just in time for Atlanta hosting eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Key Insights: Chief Financial Officer Shel Adams highlighted the strategic selection of Atlanta due to favorable weather, proximity to an international airport, and strong community and governmental partnerships.
"Weather was a big, important piece of it... and the partnerships that we could have with the community, with the government," at [09:45].
The training center will serve as the new hub for U.S. Soccer operations, encompassing everything from community programs to professional matches.
For more in-depth coverage of these stories, visit GPB News. Feedback and comments can be directed to georgiatoday@gpb.org. Stay updated by subscribing to the Georgia Today podcast.