Georgia Today Podcast Summary – January 16, 2025

Hosted by Peter Biello from Georgia Public Broadcasting

Governor Kemp’s State of the State Address

Timestamp: [00:52 - 01:57]

Governor Brian Kemp delivered his annual State of the State address at the Georgia State Capitol, addressing the full state Legislature. Key topics included:

• Hurricane Helene Impacts: Governor Kemp discussed the ongoing effects of Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the state’s resilience and recovery efforts.

• Proposed State Income Tax Cut: He introduced a proposal to reduce the state income tax, aiming to stimulate economic growth and provide financial relief to Georgia residents.

• Tort Reform: Highlighted as his top priority, Kemp unveiled plans for a tort reform package intended to limit civil lawsuits. Colton Moore stated at [01:23], “Whether it is this legislative session or perhaps a second one later this year, we will achieve meaningful, impactful tort reform.”

• School Safety: In the wake of the tragic high school shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Kemp reaffirmed his commitment to doubling down on school safety measures.

Democratic Response: Augusta State Senator Minority Leader Harold Jones responded to Kemp’s speech, critiquing the governor’s focus on business interests over public welfare. At [02:12], Jones asserted, “We want to use a portion of the $16 billion surplus that the governor currently sits on. Republicans want to use that money to help corporations. We want to use that money to help you.” The Georgia Democratic Party concurrently issued fact-checks of Kemp’s address.

Arrest of State Senator Colton Moore

Timestamp: [02:24 - 03:09]

In a significant political incident, Trenton Republican State Senator Colton Moore was arrested at the state Capitol after attempting to violate a ban restricting his entry into the statehouse chamber. The incident occurred during Governor Kemp's State of the State address. Moore engaged in a physical altercation with Georgia State Patrol officers before being handcuffed and detained at the Fulton County Jail.

Moore, who represents 200,000 constituents in Northwest Georgia, has a history of contentious interactions, having been banned from the House the previous year for derogatory remarks about the late House Speaker David Ralston. Upon his arrest, Moore exclaimed at [03:09], “I represent 200,000 people in Northwest Georgia who duly elected me to be here today, and you're hindering that unconstitutional. You have no respect for the Constitution.” He was subsequently charged with obstructing law enforcement officers.

Leadership Changes at Wellstar Health System

Timestamp: [03:23 - 05:09]

Wellstar Health System, one of Georgia’s largest health networks, announced that Candice Saunders, its President and CEO, will retire at the end of June. Saunders has led the organization since 2015 and was notably involved in the controversial closure of Wellstar Atlanta’s medical center in 2022, which resulted in Atlanta being left with only one Level One trauma center.

Rudy Giuliani’s Settlement with Georgia Election Workers

Timestamp: [05:09 - 07:02]

Former New York City Mayor and ex-Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani reached a settlement with former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shea Moss. The deal allows Giuliani to retain his homes and personal belongings while compensating the women and agreeing never to defame them again. This settlement avoids a trial that was set to begin in Manhattan federal court, where Giuliani was slated to testify. The original defamation lawsuit sought $148 million, alleging that Giuliani’s false claims about the 2020 presidential election led to death threats against Freeman and Moss.

Media Consolidation: The End of an Era for the Union Recorder

Timestamp: [07:02 - 07:57]

The Union Recorder in Milledgeville, Georgia, marks the end of its 200-year-old tradition of in-house newspaper printing. Recently acquired by Carpenter Media Group, a Mississippi-based conglomerate, the newspaper will now outsource its printing operations to Bainbridge, 200 miles away. This transition results in significant changes:

• Reduced Print Frequency: The Union Recorder will decrease from three days to two days in print.

• Workforce Impact: Long-time press foreman Keith Justice is leaving, and the number of on-site printing staff will drop from forty to six.

• Community Response: Union Recorder editor Natalie Linder affirmed the paper’s commitment to local reporting despite the changes, stating at [07:15], “We did not stop publishing during the Civil War. We haven't missed a print date, and we don't intend to even with this transition.”

Christina Smith, an associate professor at Georgia College and State University, expressed concerns about media consolidation leading to fewer local reporters and reduced community representation in news coverage.

Firearms Seizures at Georgia Airports

Timestamp: [07:57 - 08:29]

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported the seizure of nearly 500 firearms at Georgia airports in 2024. This consistent figure reflects ongoing adherence to TSA regulations established post-2020 pandemic. Travelers are reminded that firearms can only be transported on commercial flights if they are:

1. Unloaded.
2. Packed in a locked, hard-sided case.
3. Placed in checked baggage.

Violations may result in criminal citations, arrests, and substantial civil penalties.

Effectiveness of Temporary Protective Orders in Bibb County

Timestamp: [08:47 - 13:55]

Temporary protective orders (TPOs) are designed to safeguard survivors of domestic violence from further abuse. However, their efficacy in Bibb County has been under scrutiny due to procedural challenges and high rates of discontinuation.

Challenges Identified:

• Accuser Reluctance: Many individuals seeking TPOs either do not appear for court hearings, voluntarily dismiss the orders, or fail to serve the necessary legal papers.

• Service Difficulties: Law enforcement often struggles to locate and serve the accused, leading to delays and repeated filings. As Alba Rosa of the Macon Telegraph noted at [11:05], “accusers explain to judges that they weren't able to serve papers correctly because they have just not been found.”

• Limited Duration: Approved TPOs typically last around a year and only result in criminal charges if violated, which may not provide long-term protection.

Positive Aspects:

• Legal Support: Organizations like Crisis Line and Safe House offer assistance by helping individuals draft protective orders and providing legal representation during hearings.

• Guaranteed Criminal Charges: If a protective order is violated, it ensures a criminal response, adding a layer of accountability.

Recommendations for Improvement: Advocates suggest enhancing law enforcement training regarding the complexities of domestic violence cases to better support victims and effectively implement protective orders. Bonnie Carlson from Mercer University emphasized the need for deeper understanding among deputies to navigate these sensitive situations.

Passing of Bob Uecker

Timestamp: [13:55 - 15:12]

Bob Uecker, affectionately known as "Mr. Baseball," passed away at the age of 90 after battling small cell lung cancer. Uecker’s multifaceted career included:

• Playing Career: Competed professionally for the Milwaukee Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, and briefly for the Atlanta Braves.

• Broadcasting Legacy: Spent over fifty years as a beloved broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers, beginning his television career at WSB in Atlanta.

Origin of "Mr. Baseball": The nickname was bestowed upon Uecker by Johnny Carson following a memorable appearance on The Tonight Show in 1971. Uecker's self-deprecating humor and charm made him a favorite guest, culminating in over 100 appearances on Carson's show.

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