Peachpod: A Georgia Politics Podcast: Recent Episodes
PeachPod Media Group, LLC
On today’s podcast, we discuss Governor Kemp’s second term turn towards legacy-defining issues. And we preview the 2023 legislative session.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, December 22, 2023.
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On this episode, Luke and Kyle take a step back from the daily grind of Georgia politics and welcome Dr. Ashton Ellett of the University of Georgia’s Richard B. Russell Library to the podcast. Dr. Ellett is the Politics and Public Policy Archivist at the Library and is the host and curator of the Two Party Georgia Oral History Project.
You can watch interviews from the Two Party Georgia interview series here.
This episode was recorded on Monday, December 12, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
We recap the Senate runoff results where Sen. Raphael Warnock beat Herschel Walker. Plus we check on Democratic efforts to move Georgia up the primary calendar, the latest on the state’s abortion ban, and Congressional Democrats priorities for the lame duck Congress.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday, December 7, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today’s podcast, we reflect on the solemn news that longtime Georgia House Speaker David Ralston passed away after an extended battle with illness. We also react to the results of the 2022 midterms, discuss new legal hurdles for the state’s abortion ban, and highlight investigative work done by Sen. Jon Ossoff in Washington.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday, November 16, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
We recap the final debate between Stacey Abrams and Governor Kemp and discuss down ballot races.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, October 30, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
We check in on top-of-the-ticket races for Senate and Governor and discuss the challenges of crafting a clear “Fire Kemp” message for Stacey Abrams.
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On todays podcast, we discuss a string of recent governing successes by Democrats, including the Biden Administration’s effort to reduce the burden of student loan debt and the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. We also talk about Governor Kemp’s efforts to delay his testimony in the Fulton County special grand jury investigation into efforts to interfere with the 2020 presidental election in Georgia.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, August 28th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today's podcast, we discuss the latest polling from the AJC and UGA showing voters have split preferences at the top of the 2022 ticket. We also discuss Burt Jones' win in the Fulton County investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election and questions about the implementation of the near total abortion ban newly in effect in Georgia.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday, July 27th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today’s episode, we recap the results of the primary runoff elections where Abrams-backed candidates surged to victory while Trump-backed candidates continue to struggle in Georgia. We also discuss Abrams’ policy ideas to be “Kemp but more ambitious” and January 6th committee testimony focused on Georgia.
This episode was recorded on Thursday, June 23rd, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today's podcast, we recap the outcomes of the 2022 primary elections in Georgia and preview where the parties stand as we head towards the midterms.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday, May 25th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
A draft Supreme Court opinion that signaled the Court is likely to overturn the precedent that protects the right to abortion care roiled Georgia politics. We discuss the implications of the opinion’s reasoning for access to reproductive healthcare and other rights. We also preview the upcoming party primaries for the 2022 election cycle.
To support abortion funds that are fighting to maintain access to abortion and reproductive healthcare in Georgia, you can donate here.
Learn more about the stakes of this issue from these podcasts:
Strict Scrutiny: What the SCOTUS leak could mean for abortion Hysteria: “SCOTUS Scammed Us”
Amicus: Learning from Pre-Roe to Navigate Post-Roe
This episode was recorded on Saturday, May 14th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
David Perdue debated incumbent Governor Brian Kemp on Sunday and focused his entire message on his false claim that the 2020 election was stolen from former President Trump. We discuss Perdue's approach and a much-discussed ad from Georgia Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday, April 26th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
As candidates officially launch their 2022 bids during qualifying week, we discuss the (very different) struggles David Perdue and Stacey Abrams are having in breaking through against Governor Brian Kemp.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday, March 8th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today's show we continue discussion of the two issues defining Georgia politics right now: COVID-19 restrictions and efforts to restrict the teaching of race in public schools.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, February 13th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
State Rep. Erick Allen (D-Smyrna) joins to discuss the conflict over re-drawing the local district lines for the county commission and board of education in Cobb County. We also check in on Allen’s views on Speaker Ralston’s sweeping mental health legislation, efforts needed to protect Georgians from pollution, and his view of Charlie Bailey’s entrance into the LG race.
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You can learn more about Rep. Allen’s campaign here: https://allenforgeorgia.com
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This episode was recorded on Thursday, February 3rd, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today’s show, we discuss new polling that shows Democrats have lost significant ground in Georgia, sweeping mental health legislation that is the top priority for Speaker David Ralston, and the ongoing fight to constrain how race is taught in schools.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, January 30th, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
On today’s show, we discuss the Kemp Administration’s decision to sue the Biden Administration over the feds rejection of part of the state’s plan to partially expand Medicaid. We also discuss contrasting visions over the state’s budget as the state economy rebounds, Democrats’ efforts to clear their statewide primary fields, and redistricting shenanigans in Athens-Clarke County.
This episode was recorded on Sunday, January 23rd, 2022
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
We're back for 2022! Today we discuss Governor Brian Kemp's main priorities for the 2022 legislative session as he faces pressure from his right. We also talk about how politics has collided with public safety as it relates to keeping schools open during the Omicron COVID-19 surge. And we check in on the latest regarding federal voting rights legislation.
On today's podcast, we discuss David Perdue's announcement he will challenge Governor Kemp for the Republican nomination. And Stacey Abrams ends speculation she may have other plans by announcing she's in for 2022. Plus we recap the redistricting session in Atlanta.
On today's episode, Democrats in Washington finally pass legislation investing nearly $1 trillion in hard infrastructure while progressives give up their strongest piece of legislative leverage in the debtae over President Biden's Build Back Better economic plan. Plus Democrats experience their worst election day in five years and David Perdue floats a primary challenge to Governor Kemp.
On today's episode, we discuss legislative wrangling among Democrats as they try to find consensus on all of President Biden's economic agenda. We also check in on the forthcoming redistricting session in Atlanta and talk about the first Congressional map released by Republican Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan.
On today's episode, we talk with State Rep. Matthew Wilson about his campaign for state insurance commissioner during the 2022 election.
On today’s show, we discuss a series of stories placing scrutiny on Herschel Walker’s personal troubles and the impact they may have on his possible Senate run. Also, Joe Biden makes bipartisan governance fashionable again, Stacey Abrams is touring everywhere that isn’t Georgia, and the Delta surge of COVID-19 raises concerns as students return to class.
On today's episode, Luke sits down with Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Timmothy Denson to discuss the path to progressive change in Georgia's Classic City, including Tim's claim that the ACC commission passed the state's most progressive local budget per capita.
On today's episode, we discuss the U.S. Department of Justice's announcement that they are filing a legal challenge against parts of Georgia Senate Bill 202, the package of changes to election law passed by Georgia Republicans during the 2021 legislative session. The DOJ challenge is the eighth such challenge to SB 202, but will any succeed in overturning provisions of the law?
On today's episode, Kyle speaks with State Representative Erick Allen (D - Smyrna) about his campaign for Lt. Governor.
On today's episode, we discuss demonstrations at metro-Atlanta school board meetings that have led two counties to ban teaching critical race theory in the classroom and drawn leading state Republicans into a new culture war front. We also check in on Georgia's U.S. Senate race and discuss the return of former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.
On today's episode, we recap President Biden's joint address to Congress and how Senators Ossoff and Warnock are aligned on an economic revival agenda.
On today's show, we talk with Taifa Smith Butler, the outgoing President and CEO of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Taifa has been an advocate for equitable policy in the Peach State for two decades, including 10 years with GBPI. She'll be leaving GBPI to become President of Demos, a progressive think tank with a national focus, later this summer. But first she tells us about GBPI's victories during her tenure and the importance of focusing on anti-racist policies and breaking down the barriers that keep all Georgians from thriving.
On today's episode, we wrap our coverage of the 2021 legislative session dominated by a major overhaul of Georgia's voting laws that add new restrictions on casting your ballot.
On today's episode, we discuss the scope of two proposed laws that would make it more difficult to vote in Georgia and how some provisions of these proposals have been watered down. We also discuss the potential Trump slate of Republican primary challengers who may challenge statewide elected officials. And we condemn the violence perpetrated against Asian-Americans in our state and across the country.
On today's episode, we discuss the American Rescue Plan, President Biden's $1.9 trillion COVID relief package, as it nears final passage. We also discuss the challenges Georgia faces in distributing vaccines and what to expect in Atlanta on Crossover Day.
Today we check in on Washington with an update on the progress COVID relief has made through Congress and the voting rights legislation Congress could pass. We also talk about an unusually partisan state legislative session in Atlanta.
We break down House Bill 531, the latest of a litany of Republican proposals that would make it harder to vote in Georgia.
We discuss the early days of Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock's terms in Washington. And we check in on the latest developments in the Georgia legislature.
On today's podcast, we're joined by Amanda Hollowell, Director of Strategic Campaigns at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute to talk about the People Powered Prosperity agenda.
On this week's podcast, we discuss the debate over how to ensure a safe return to the classroom for teachers and students. We also discuss the legislative push to make it harder to vote and Republicans' embrace of extremist politics.
Alex Camardelle from the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI) joins to discuss the challenges Georgia’s workers and people with modest incomes are facing as the state recovers from COVID-19.
Dr. Stephen Owens from the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute joins to discuss trends in state funding for Georgia's K-12 schools and why letting students take public funding to private schools will leave many students behind.
On today's podcast, we discuss last week's budget hearings and the continued trend of underfunding key priorities. We also take a look at the early days of the Biden administration as he pursues a COVID-19 relief package and his agenda.
On today's episode, we kick off our coverage of the 2022 election cycle by sharing a conversation with Charlie Bailey. Charlie is a Democratic candidate for Attorney General in 2022. He ran for this seat but came up short in 2018.
We respond to Governor Kemp's State of the State address, including his vigorous defense of his government's response to COVID-19 and his forceful condemnation of the murder of Ahmaud Arbery.
On today's show, Kyle and Luke preview the 2021 legislative session and discuss how the political dynamics from the 2020 election cycle spill over into politics in Atlanta.
On today's show, we discuss the Senate campaign victories of Reverend Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff. We also react to Wednesday's insurrection at the U.S. capitol by sympathizers of President Trump.
On today's pod, we discuss the closing messages of each campaign in the races that will determine control of the U.S. Senate.
On today's episode, we check in on the latest with the Senate runoffs and discuss Republicans laying the groundwork for voting restrictions based on Trump's false claims the election was stolen from him.
Today, we talk with Julia Bryan, the Global Chair for Democrats Abroad, about how U.S. citizens eligible to vote in Georgia’s federal elections can vote in the two U.S. Senate runoffs on January 5th.
We discuss Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger's media blitz defending his administration of the 2020 election and the open invitation for a primary challenge that it's giving to Trump-friendly Republicans. Plus a check-in on the Senate runoffs.
On today's podcast, Luke and Kyle discuss efforts by Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue to create skepticism over the election outcome as a tool to motivate their base for the runoff.
Kyle is joined by Nabilah Islam and Josh White to recap what we know about the results of the 2020 election.
Luke and Kyle give their final thoughts on the 2020 election, including the touch message that Donald Trump, David Perdue, and Republicans have to run on.
On today's podcast, Kyle and Nabilah talk about that bold plan to address climate change Joe Biden is hiding. And Kyle interviews Jonathan Wallace, Democratic candidate for State House in HD 119.
On today's podcast, Kyle and Luke recap the final presidential debate and talk about the race for control of the State House.
Kyle and Nabilah break down the Atlanta Press Club debate between Senator Kelly Loeffler, Congressman Doug Collins, Reverend Raphael Warnock, Matt Lieberman, Ed Tarver, and Brian Slowinski.
On today's episode, we recap Atlanta Press Club debates in the Perdue Senate race and Georgia's 6th and 7th congressional district races. We also discuss the fallout from David Perdue's mocking of Kamala Harris' name and competitive Senate races across the South.
On today's episode, we break down the messages behind some of Jon Ossoff's campaign ads as he seeks to unseat Georgia Senator David Perdue. We also discuss the latest polling in the Georgia Senate race and reflect on the Vice Presidential Debate.
On today’s show, we are joined by Mario Carillo and Zac Mueller from America’s Voice to talk about racist ads targeted at immigrants in the 2020 campaign cycle.
On today's show, Kyle and Luke discuss the advertising strategy of Senator Perdue's campaign for re-election. We also reflect on the news that President Trump and Melania Trump tested positive for COVID-19.
Kyle and Luke are joined by Josh White to react to the first presidential debate of 2020.
On today’s podcast, we’re joined by our favorite legal analyst Tori Slatton to discuss the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s legal career and the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to succeed her on the nation’s highest court.
Kyle and Luke discuss whether the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett will galvanize conservative voters and the demands from Democrats that Matt Lieberman exit the Senate race.
On today's podcast, Kyle and Luke discuss the political implications of the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
On today’s show, we talk with Richard Dien Winfield, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate running for the seat currently held by Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler.
On today's podcast, we discuss a whistleblower report filed by an ICE detention nurse that alleges inhumane treatment of detained immigrants. We also follow up on last week's Labor Day discussion with news that Georgia Democratic campaign staffers are unionizing. And Erikka Williams, District Attorney candidate in Houston County, joins for an interview about her campaign.
On today's podcast, we discuss the challenges that face Georgia workers, allegations that 1,000 people double voted in the June primary, and the latest on Georgia's two Senate races.
Kyle and Luke recap the RNC and discuss whether Republican efforts to reach Black voters and white moderate voters is enough to hold onto control of Georgia.
On today's show, we discuss Joe Biden's selection of Kamala Harris as his running mate. We also recap the results of Tuesday's primary runoffs.
On today's podcast, Luke and Kyle talk about Sen. Kelly Loeffler's embrace of Trump's brand of racist grievance politics. We also check-in on the latest Congressional action (or inaction) on COVID relief.
On today's podcast, we continue our conversation series with candidates for the Georgia legislature. Today, we talk with Lisa Campbell, a Democratic candidate in State House District 35, covering parts of Kennesaw and Acworth.
On today’s podcast, the podcast crew remembers the legacy of Georgia Congressman John Lewis and checks in on the latest on the COVID-19 pandemic.
William Hughes, Democratic candidate for State House in HD 21, joins the podcast to discuss his campaign.
On today’s podcast, we talk with Deborah Gonzalez, a candidate for District Attorney in the Western Judicial Circuit covering Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties. We talked with Deborah about her candidacy for DA in December, but since then, Deborah has filed and won a lawsuit that prevented the Governor from cancelling the 2020 DAs race by appointing a replacement to the outgoing DA Ken Mauldin. We talked with Deborah about this lawsuit and how she sees the role of District Attorney in responding to calls for justice and an end to police brutality.
On today’s podcast, we continue our candidates conversation series with Luisa Wakeman, a Democratic candidate for House District 43.
On today's podcast, we continue our candidate conversations series with Sarah Beeson, a Democratic candidate for State Senate District 56.
On today's podcast, we recap the final days of a 2020 session for the history books. Session was delayed by nearly 3 months for the COVID-19 pandemic. But upon the legislature's brief return, they passed a hate crimes bill and cut $2.2 billion from the state budget.
Sara Tindall Ghazal joins the podcast to tell us about her campaign for State House District 45 and what needs to be done between now and November to avoid another election administration meltdown.
Megan talks with Representative Park Cannon (D-Atlanta) about the message demonstrations against police brutality are sending to lawmakers and a landmark Supreme Court ruling that offers sweeping discrimination protections to LGBTQ people.
Last week, Georgians battled lines, technical difficulties, and confusion to cast their ballots in the state’s Congressional, state and local primary races. We talk about the breakdown in administration of Tuesday’s election and the results in Georgia’s Senate and Congressional races.
On today’s podcast, we talk about demonstrations in response to the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the demonstrations that followed. These demonstrators have demanded that policymakers at all levels of government take action to stop police violence against Black Americans and break down institutions of systemic racism and oppression in our society. So we discuss a path forward for policymakers in Georgia and across the nation.
On today's episode, we talk with Mokah Jasmine Johnson, a candidate for the State House in District 117, about her campaign for the state legislature and her view on solutions to police accountability.
On today's podcast, you'll hear from State Representative Erick Allen (D-Smyrna) about House Democrats' agenda to increase police accountability following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
On today's podcast, you'll hear from Destiny Bryant, a candidate for District Attorney in the Alcovy Judicial Circuit, covering Newton and Walton counties. Megan talked with Destiny about the message she is hearing from demonstrators following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and her view of how the criminal justice system should be reformed.
Democratic Senate candidate Sarah Riggs Amico joins the podcast to discuss solutions to improve policing practices and the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On today's podcast, we discuss a recent ruling from the state Supreme Court that affirms the ability of the Court's Justices to game the state's constitution and cancel judicial elections. Then we preview the Senate and Congressional primaries coming on June 9th. And Research Intern Olivia Bauer joins the podcast to discuss her research on rural development.
On today's podcast, we break down the implications of the law and policy for the coming grand jury proceedings in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery. We also discuss the state budget situation facing lawmakers when they return to Atlanta next month.
See the Bitter Southerner for an excellent piece about the claim Arbery's family can make to Georgia's coastal communities and what was lost in his passing.
Check out Zak Cheney-Rice's reflections on parenthood in the wake of the shooting.
Read about other incidents regarding questionable police practices by the Glynn County Police Department in Georgia Recorder.
Read this argument against citizen's arrest statutes from American University law professor Ira Robbins.
On today’s podcast, we learn about how campaigns are pivoting to engage voters digitally amidst the coronavirus crisis.
Megan talks with Rep. Becky Evans about what Georgia needs to do to be prepared to re-open businesses and what it's like to campaign during a pandemic.
On today's podcast, we talk about Gov. Kemp's risky bet that he can allow close-contact businesses like nail salons, tattoo parlors, and hair salons to re-open without increasing the spread of COVID-19.
On today's podcast, we continue our discussion on the state and federal response to the Coronavirus crisis, including the Governor's statewide stay-at-home order and the frustration it has created for local officials. We also look at the scrutiny over trades made in Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler's stock portfolio in the lead up to the crisis.
Megan is joined by Tori Slatton, Olivia Bauer, Kelly Dobso, and Payeton Childers to discuss important policies that protect women in honor of Women's History Month.
On today's podcast, we talk about an emerging debate weighing the merits of an aggressive public health response aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 against the impact that such aggressive responses have on the economy.
On today's podcast, we discuss the reactions of Governor Kemp, the legislature, and local governments across Georgia to the Coronavirus pandemic. We also assess where the Democratic presidential primary stands as future primary elections are delayed and Biden maintains a large delegate lead.
On this episode, we discuss Republicans in the Georgia House making a big show of restoring the Governor's budget cuts while pursuing their own risky budget ideas. Then we check in on legislation at play as we near crossover day.
Note: This was recorded before crossover day and before it was announced that the legislature would suspend operations in response to the spread of COVID-19.
We discuss Joe Biden’s victory in South Carolina, making him likely the only viable alternative to a Bernie Sanders nomination. Then we discuss issues with the rollout of Georgia’s new voting machines, which debut for the Democratic presidential primary on March 24th.
On today's podcast, we discuss former Republican New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's campaign spending that has enabled his polling surge in the Democratic presidential primary. We also look at moves in the Georgia House to restore some of Gov. Kemp's proposed spending cuts and the re-emergence of the religious liberty debate.
On today’s podcast, Kyle and Luke discuss Gov. Kemp’s rollout of his efforts to combat gang crime in the state. We also check in on budget talks and the results from the New Hampshire primary.
On today’s podcast, we talk with Jill Nolin from Georgia Recorder about two stories she recently reported regarding water pollution near power plant sites in middle Georgia.
On today’s podcast, we discuss Rep. Doug Collins’ decision to challenge Sen. Kelly Loeffler in November. We also check in on where Democrats stand in the race to unseat Sen. David Perdue.
Luke and Kyle analyze last week’s budget hearings and discuss the warnings given by some agency leaders about the impact of the Governor’s proposed budget cuts.
Maggie Lee, a freelance reporter working with Georgia Recorder to cover the 2020 legislative session, joins the podcast to recap last week’s budget hearings.
On today’s podcast, we discuss Governor Kemp’s continued delay on whether to accept refugee resettlement in Georgia and a lawsuit that may take that decision out of his hands. We also check in on the Democratic primary.
On today’s podcast we talk with Dana Barrett, a Democratic candidate in Georgia’s 11th congressional district. Dana spoke with us about her views on the issues, but she also weighed in on the temperament and character that a public official should have.
We talk with Rod Sellers, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Georgia's 11th Congressional District. Rod brings a focus on unions and bargaining rights at the workplace to this race, but he has a tough task on his hands. He brings a progressive message to a relatively conservative district currently held by Barry Loudermilk.
Jill Nolin, reporter at Georgia Recorder, joins the podcast to recap Governor Kemp’s annual address on his priorities for legislative session. We also discuss movement on a “marketplace facilitator” bill that plays into this year’s debate over state finances.
On today’s podcast, we preview the issues, personalities, and conflicts that will define the 2020 legislative session.
On today’s podcast, we talk with Matt Lieberman about his candidacy for the US Senate. Matt is a candidate in the jungle primary competing for the Senate seat formerly held by Johnny Isakson.
On today’s podcast, we discuss Greg Bluestein’s seven questions that will define Georgia politics in 2020. If you want a preview of the 2020 political landscape in Georgia, his list is a must-read.
On this week's podcast, we discuss a series of stories that illustrate the troubles with Georgia's system and infrastructure for voting. Then, President Trump was impeached by the U.S. House on Wednesday evening. We previewed what comes next.
On today's podcast, we discuss the early retirement of Georgia Supreme Court Justice Robert Benham, the first African-American to serve on the state's highest court. We talk about his retirement's impact on the campaigns of his would-be successors, and we look at the state supreme court's place in the ideological war over the nation's courts.
On today's podcast, we talk with Deborah Gonzalez, a candidate for District Attorney in Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties, about her views on criminal justice reform and her campaign.
On this week's podcast, we discuss a new report from the AJC showing that nutrition assistance programs like SNAP provide less assistance to people in rural areas because of higher food prices. Despite the challenges people in need of food assistance face, the Trump administration is considering proposals that would take the program away from thousands of Georgians.
We discuss Governor Brian Kemp's decision to appoint Atlanta businesswoman Kelly Loeffler to the U.S. Senate despite President Trump's endorsement of Rep. Doug Collins.
On this episode, Payeton Childers and Natalie Speier join to recap the November Democratic Debate in Atlanta from a Georgia perspective.
On this episode, Kelly Dobso and Olivia Bauer join to recap the November Democratic debate in Atlanta from a national perspective.
We made a sports podcast! John Carolin, from the short-lived PeachPod sports podcast The Misery Index, joins the PeachPod crew to talk about LSU's victory over Alabama, this year's edition of the Deep South's Oldest Rivalry, and the future for sports gambling in the Georgia legislature.
On today’s podcast, we discuss new legislation from Rep. Ginny Ehrhart that would criminalize the provision of gender-confirming health care for transgender children and the message it sends to the transgender community.
We're trying out a new, shorter format on episodes this week. On today's podcast, we break down the results of off-year elections in Kentucky and Virginia and discuss why they matter in Georgia.
On today's podcast, we spend Cocktail Party week discussing the latest action in state houses and by the NCAA on the question of allowing college athletes to be paid. Then we update our coverage of carcinogenic chemical emissions by three medical sterilization plans and surprisingly aggressive action taken by the state.
On this week’s show, we discuss the role legalization of recreational marijuana could play in criminal justice reforms and the state’s budget crunch. We also talk about Governor Kemp’s education agenda and recap the latest fundraising totals.
This week we talk with Jimmy Herndon, a candidate for Sheriff in Cobb County about his views on immigration enforcement, efforts to end mass incarceration, and improving treatment of people housed at jails in Cobb. We also introduce two new members of PeachPod — Kelly Dobso and Olivia Bauer — who join to recap Tuesday’s Democratic presidential debate.
This week we talk to State Senator Renee Unterman. She is a Republican candidate to succeed Rep. Rob Woodall in Georgia's 7th Congressional District. Then we update on the choice before Gov. Brian Kemp about who should be Georgia's next U.S. Senator.
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Ted Terry comes back on PeachPod to tell us about his support for Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. He also speaks on the importance of addressing America's crisis in long-term care for aging loved ones.
On this week's show, we update the latest on the impeachment inquiry, compare Democratic Senate candidates' positions on climate change, and recap the off-season budget hearings.
This week, we talk with Dr. Michael Owens, the former Chairman of Cobb County Democrats and a third-generation military veteran, about his decision to launch a primary challenge against Rep. David Scott in Georgia's 13th Congressional District.
We discuss Nancy Pelosi's announcement that the House of Representatives is now in a formal impeachment inquiry and we recap how we got here.
This week, we update the discussion about Kemp's proposed budget cuts and check in on the Georgia Senate races now that Jon Ossoff has declared his candidacy.
This week, Sarah Riggs Amico joins to discuss her campaign to challenge David Perdue in the U.S. Senate.
Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Tim Denson joins the show to update us on the latest policy moves in Athens and tell us about the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from an activist to a governing position.
This week Senator Johnny Isakson stunned the Georgia political world by announcing that he would retire his seat in the U.S. Senate at the end of 2019. We reflect on Senator Isakson's career and talk about the political earthquake it sets off in 2020. Then, we discuss President Trump's escalation of his trade war with China and its impact on Georgia farmers. Finally this week, we check in on the latest of cancer-causing emissions from two medical sterilization facilities in Smyrna and Covington.
On this bonus podcast, House Minority Leader Bob Trammell joins the podcast to discuss a variety of issues with Kyle and Luke. Trammell calls for a suspension of operations at the Sterigenics medical sterilization facility in light of new AJC reporting regarding safety concerns. He also discusses Democrats' strategy for taking the State House in the 2020 elections and his caucus' plans to pursue repeal of the state's new abortion ban.
This week, the crew talks about a recent decision that prohibits the use of Georgia's current voting machines past the 2019 municipal elections amidst a myriad of security concerns. Danny Kanso from the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute joins to discuss Governor Kemp's proposed budget cuts as the state considers a cut to the top income tax rate. And Wes Wolfe from the Brunswick News tells us about environmentalists concerns over a Georgia Power plan to dispose of coal ash.
This week, we recap the second debate of the Democratic primary in Detroit. Then, Marquis Cole, a Democratic candidate for Georgia's 7th Congressional District, joins to discuss his campaign.
Megan sits down with Ted Terry to discuss his views as he launches a campaign for U.S. Senate.
This week we discuss last year's blue wave election for the Athens Mayor and Commission and how new members are bringing progressive policies to the Classic City. Nabilah Islam, candidate for Georgia's 7th Congressional district, joins to react to President Trump's racist tweets. And we discuss Democratic Leader Bob Trammell's endorsement of Kamala Harris for President.
On this week's show, we discuss Ted Terry's entrance into the US Senate race, the outlook for candidates in Georgia and nationally based on their latest fundraising totals, and the crisis at the border.
On this week's show, the team recaps the first Democratic debate of the 2020 cycle. We also talk about two important decisions handed down by SCOTUS last week. The Court stopped the Trump administration from adding a citizenship question to the census but declined to intervene in partisan gerrymandering.
We devote the entire podcast today to a legal challenge filed by Stacey Abrams' new voting rights group, Fair Fight Action, seeking major reforms to the way the state conducts elections.
On this week's show, Tamar Hallerman from the AJC joins to tell us about how a new trade deal between the US, Mexico, and Canada has split Georgia's agriculture community. Plus the crew checks in on where we are in the economic revitalization of rural Georgia and marks the beginning of Pride Month.
This week, Nabilah Islam joins the podcast. She's running for the 7th Congressional District. Then, Matthew Cavedon, a criminal defense attorney from Gainesville joins the show to discuss his view that the state's new abortion ban does not allow for the prosecution of women.
Kyle, Luke, and Ben discuss the Republican convention in Savannah last weekend. Then, Megan talks with State Rep. Brenda Lopez Romero about her run for Georgia's 7th Congressional District.
This week, State Senator Jen Jordan joins the show to discuss her view that women may be liable for prosecution under the state's new abortion ban. Then we discuss the indictment of Insurance Commissioner Jim Beck on allegations of fraud. And we wrap up with a look at Kemp's first turn with the veto pen.
Kyle talks with Dr. Carolyn Bourdeaux, a Georgia State professor and former Senate Budget Office director from Suwanee. We discussed her views on healthcare, gun violence in schools, and her reaction to a new ad from a potential Republican opponent.
This week, Kyle sits down with Rachel Kinsey, who is challenging Barry Loudermilk for a seat in Congress. Plus, Spencer Donovan from the Red and Black tells us about a movement on the campus of the University of Georgia to recognize the University's role in slavery. And we discuss Stacey Abrams' decision not to run for the U.S. Senate.
On this week's podcast, the gang discusses the decision by the Supreme Court to take up a case questioning whether LGBT employment discrimination is already outlawed. Plus we react to the release of the Mueller report, discuss Lynne Homrich's entrance into the 7th Congressional District race, and talk about an effort to block campus carry in the courts.
This week, Kyle sits down with Teresa Tomlinson, the former mayor of Columbus, Georgia. Tomlinson recently launched an exploratory committee to consider a run for the U.S. Senate. She joined the podcast to discuss her views on reproductive health, delayed disaster aid to survivors of Hurricane Michael, and her views on the policy questions of the day.
We're back to wrap our session coverage with the annual The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly show. If you were sleeping under a rock since January, catch up on the highlights from this year's convening of the legislature.
This week we're joined by Kyle Rinaudo, the first candidate to announce a challenge against abortion ban sponsor Ed Setzler in 2020. We talked about his position on the abortion ban and what else he'd like to do if he were elected to the State House.
We’re nearing the final days of session! This week we update the progress of a bill banning abortion, talk about Georgia’s increasing role in national politics, and discuss the implications of the Mueller report.
On this week's pod, we talk about reinvigorated efforts to pass a private school voucher program into law, Sen. Isakson's surprise vote in favor of Trump's emergency declaration, and the latest on some high profile bills moving through the Gold Dome.
Luke and Megan recap last weekend's joint meeting for the Young Democrats of Georgia and the Young Democrats of America. Then Megan gives updates on the latest news from the Gold Dome and Capitol Hill.
Republicans push through polarizing bills on abortion and elections while Gwinnett County weighs whether to join MARTA.
It’s Crossover Day! This week we talk about the struggle for some top priorities of social conservatives this session. We also discuss a proposal for the state to take over control of the Atlanta airport from the city, new background check legislation in the U.S. House, and the role of Georgia’s Senators in the debate on overturning the President’s emergency declaration.
This week, Megan sits down with Robert Thompson from the Indivisible chapter for Georgia's 11th Congressional district to discuss the group's priorities.
On today's show, we discuss big changes in voting access and healthcare that were presented before committees in the legislature this week. Then, House Speaker David Ralston is investigated by the AJC and WSB because of his use of his position in the legislature to delay criminal cases. Will he face any consequences?
This week, we discuss the latest on negotiations to avoid another government shutdown, the developing race for Georgia’s 7th Congressional District, and the Green New Deal.
Ben is joined by Bo Warren from the Georgia Department of Agriculture to talk about ongoing efforts under the Gold Dome and in Washington to help farmers impacted by Hurricane Michael.
The crew recaps President Trump's State of the Union address and the response to his address by Stacey Abrams.
This week, Kristi Swartz from E&E News joins the podcast to update us on the latest on rural broadband legislation. Plus we talk state budget, new party leadership for the Democrats, and Stacey Abrams upcoming State of the Union response.
Editor's note: This episode was recorded Wednesday, January 30.
Audio Credit:
Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
Greg Tourial, Analyst at CQ House Action Reports, joins the pod to discuss the end of the shutdown.
This week, we welcome Ben Stout to the show! Ben joins the crew to to take a way too early look at the 2020 Democratic presidential primary and 2020 Georgia races. We also discuss the latest on the government shutdown.
On today's episode, Megan and Kyle discuss the rebuke that the women of the State Senate gave to their leadership over new sexual harassment rules and committee assignments. Then, Brentin Mock, staff writer at City Lab, joins the podcast to talk about the cityhood movement in Atlanta.
We're back. This week we discuss Governor Kemp's first State of the State address and we check in on the longest government shutdown in the nation's history.
This week, the gang discusses the future for Georgia Democrats now that the 2018 elections are over. And Jay Bookman, longtime AJC columnist who is retiring at the end of the year, joins the pod to discuss his career in writing and how politics and journalism have changed while he's been at the paper.
This week we discuss President Trump's decision to fire Jeff Sessions and the unresolved Georgia governor's race.
This week, Luke talks with Richard Keatley, Democratic candidate for state Labor Commissioner. Plus Jessica and Megan are back to talk about debates in the 6th and 7th Congressional Districts.
This week we recap the Atlanta Press Club debate between Stacey Abrams, Brian Kemp, and Ted Metz.
Jessica Szilagyi joins to discuss comments from Stacey Abrams about job diversity in rural Georgia that Kemp calls offensive to people working in agriculture and hospitality. We also talk about how access to the ballot has become a central issue in this campaign.
This week, Jessica Szilagyi joins the pod to discuss headaches for the Sarah Riggs Amico campaign as Kemp calls for her to drop from the race. We also discuss the Secretary of State’s debate. Kalyann Teasley joins to talk about transit.
On this week's show, we take a look at how Brian Kemp and Stacey Abrams have responded to Hurricane Michael's devastation across south Georgia. Kyle sits down with the Southern Center for Human Rights to discuss the past and future of criminal justice reforms.
On this week's show, we discuss Hurricane Michael, which hit Georgia as the strongest hurricane since 1898. The storm devastated Georgia farmers and may become an issue in November's race for Governor. Kyle talks with Aisha Yaqoob, Democratic candidate for House District 97. They discuss her campaign and her background in activism that prepared her to take a seat under the Gold Dome. And Kyle and Megan discuss the development plan at the Gulch and resistance to the proposal from activists.
Former Congressman John Barrow joins Luke to talk about why he is running for Secretary of State.
On this week's show we talk to Charlie Bailey, the Democratic candidate for Attorney General about his run for the top prosecutor job in the state. We also discuss the health care plans presented by Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp. And Megan interviews Jeff Graham, the Executive Director of Georgia Equality, about religious freedom legislation and the stakes for LGBT Georgians of this fall's elections.
Learn more about Charlie Bailey's campaign at his website.
Learn more about Georgia Equality and how you can get involved.
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Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
This week: New polling shows a tie in the Governors race, Brett Kavanaugh moves one step closer to confirmation on the Supreme Court, former president Barack Obama returns to the campaign trail, and the New York Times publishes an anonymous op-ed from a senior official in the Trump administration.
On this week's show we talk about Brian Kemp's move to the center on immigration and the religious liberty/LGBT rights debate. We also discuss the influence of dark money in our politics, Bob Woodward's new book about the Trump White House, and the first day of Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court Confirmation hearings.
This podcast contains explicit language because of those absolutely bananas anecdotes from Bob Woodward’s new book.
You can find the polling we discuss from the AJC here. We discussed the January and April 2018 polls.
Excerpts from Woodward's new book were posted by the Washington Post and CNN
Subscribe to PeachPod on Apple Podcasts.
Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
The whole gang is here to discuss Trump administration efforts to repeal Obama-era pollution standards in favor of more relaxed regulations, the legal and political implications for Trump of Michael Cohen and Paul Manafort's legal troubles, and recap last weekend's state Democratic convention.
This week we discuss the release new FiveThirtyEight model predicting the results of U.S. House elections in November. We look at a proposal from Randolph County, a small, majority African-American county in southwest Georgia, to close 7 of the county's 9 precincts for the November elections. And we talk about whether capitalism is working for us.
Kyle, Megan, and Luke check in on the early strategies of both Brian Kemp and Stacey Abrams as they begin the march to November. Then State Representative Scott Holcomb (D-Atlanta) joins to discuss the state's current voting machines and the need for some paper in the system.
This week we're joined by Austin Wagner to discuss Democrats' chances at making gains in the State House this fall. We also talk with two candidates who recently received endorsements from President Barack Obama: Matthew Wilson and Shelly Hutchinson. And we look at whether trade will be an important issue in elections this fall.
During our [last episode][1] we shared a clip from an interview with Shelly Hutchinson, a candidate for State House who was recently endorsed by former President Barack Obama. Here is our full interview.
On this episode, we discuss the money local governments spend on voluntarily federal immigration law enforcement with Wesley Tharpe, Research Director at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. We also talk about the ongoing debate around election security and look at the conclusion of the Democratic primaries.
This week we’re joined by Jessica Szilagyi, a writer for AllOnGeorgia.com, to discuss the outcomes of the GOP runoffs for Governor and Lt. Governor. We also talk about a Trump administration plan to provide $12 billion in aid to farmers hurt by the administration’s trade policies.
This week we're joined by Cody Hall, former Communications Director for the Hunter Hill for Governor campaign, to discuss today's runoffs for Governor and Lt. Governor on the GOP side along with downballot and Congressional runoffs on both sides of the aisle.
This week we discuss the final days of the GOP runoff for Governor between Brian Kemp and Casey Cagle. We also discuss the bizarre press conference featuring President Trump and Russian President Putin. And we're joined by Dawn Johnson to talk about her run for state senate.
This week we discuss President Trump's nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
This week we're joined by Tori Slatton, an immigration lawyer in Washington DC, and our new contributor Megan Payne, to discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling in Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission. We also discuss the latest on Trump Administration immigration policy and a bill up for vote this week in the U.S. House.
This week, Luke sits down to talk with Mariah Parker about her campaign for County Commissioner and what she'd like to accomplish now that she's been elected.
This week, we're joined by Cody Hall, former Communications Director for Hunter Hill, to discuss the North Korean nuclear summit and a rapidly escalating problem with immigration at the border.
This week we're joined by Cody Hall, former Communications Director for Hunter Hill, to discuss the release of a secret recording of Casey Cagle. We also recap Stacey Abrams' primary victory and dig into some Abrams campaign polling as her team looks towards November.
On this bonus edition of PeachPod, Kyle and Luke discuss the outcome of the elections for mayor and commission in Athens-Clarke County.
This week Luke and Kyle recap the primaries across Georgia for Congressional, statewide, and state legislative seats.
Kyle talks with Carolyn Bourdeaux, a Georgia State University professor, who is running for the Democratic nomination in Georgia's 7th Congressional District.
In this episode, Kyle talks with Russell Edwards, a candidate for the 7th District seat on the Athens-Clarke County Commission. They discuss Russell's background in politics, how his platform is shaped by what he hears on the trail, and why Athens should do more to bring families into downtown.
In this episode, Kyle talks with Jared Bailey, the incumbent commissioner on the Athens-Clarke County Commission, District 5. They talk about Bailey's vision for economic development in Athens and what accomplishments of the commission that Bailey is most proud of.
Kyle and Luke sit down with Tim Denson to discuss his race for Athens-Clarke County Commission in the 5th District. We also discuss Tim's background in organizing, how he got from the Occupy Athens movement to being a candidate for county commission, and his view of how to get things done at the local level.
Editors Note: This conversation was recorded in early March.
Learn more about Tim's Campaign.
Music Credit: Music by Joakim Karud http://youtube.com/joakimkarud
This week, Luke sits down with Kelly Girtz to discuss Kelly's campaign for Mayor of Athens, Georgia.
This week, we’re joined by Blake Aued, news editor at Flagpole Magazine, to discuss the races for Mayor and Commission in Athens. We’re also joined by Ethan Pham, a Democrat running for the party’s nomination in the 7th Congressional District. And we sit down with Twitty Titus, a Democrat running for the state legislature in House District 173 to discuss challenges facing Southwest Georgia.
On this week's show, we talk with Madeleine Deisen, a student at Walton High School who helped organize a walkout at the school in protest of gun violence after the mass shooting in Parkland, Florida. We also talk with State Rep. Jonathan Wallace about Senate Bill 315, a cybersecurity bill on the Governor's desk that opens criminal liability to researchers who discover security vulnerabilities online. Finally, we speak with Fred Swann, the Democratic candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture.
This week, Kyle is joined by Judy Fitzgerald, the commissioner of the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. They discuss recent recommendations made by the Commission on Children's Mental Health created by Governor Deal last summer.
This week we check in on the Republican and Democratic races for Governor and close out our reporting on this year's legislative session.
On this week's episode, Luke and Kyle report live from the Young Democrats of Georgia Convention. We're joined by Stacey Evans and Stacey Abrams to discuss taxes, healthcare, and education. Kyle interviews Sarah Riggs Amico for Lt. Governor and Matt Southwell for House District 34. And we discuss the convention activities including a Young Electeds forum featuring Reps. Bee Nguyen and Park Cannon and State Sen. Jen Jordan.
On this week's episode we discuss some of the bills that are still pending before the legislature now that crossover day has passed. And we check in on qualifying for Congressional and state-level offices for the 2018 midterms.
On this week’s episode, we discuss Republican plans to cut state taxes, Democrats who stopped defending their priorities, and Casey Cagle, Delta and the NRA not playing nicely in the sandbox. Luke sits down with John Noel to discuss his run for the Public Service Commission.
On this week’s episode, we discuss Republican plans to increase the cap for tax payer funded scholarships that are used to send students to private schools. We take a look at a constitutional amendment that would prohibit the state from doing business in languages other than English. And we talk about the tragic deaths of 17 students and staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.
On this week's show we talk about the conclusion to the legislative fight over adoption under the Gold Dome. We also take a look at a confidential memo from the Abrams campaign laying out her strategy as we head for the Democratic primary in May.
On this week's episode we discuss President Trump's state of the union speech, check in on where the immigration debate is, and talk about a poorly executed ad in the Democratic gubernatorial primary between Stacey Evans and Stacey Abrams.
On this week's episode we discuss last weekend's government shutdown and the state of play on immigration legislation. Then Wesley Tharpe from the Georgia Budget and Policy institute joins to talk about the Governor's budget request.
This week we discuss Governor Deal's final State of the State address, break down Stacey Abrams economic mobility plan, and discuss a voting rights case before the Supreme Court that could impact Georgia.
On this week’s show, Kyle and Luke preview the upcoming legislative session and discuss the series of substantive proposals House Speaker David Ralston will pursue, the impact of new Democratic Leader Bob Trammell in the House, and how the upcoming slate of campaigns will impact what goes down at the Dome.
On this week's episode, Kyle talks with Democratic governor candidate Stacey Evans about the role that poverty plays in schools. Luke sits down with Jonathan Wallace, the new state representative for House District 119 to talk about the campaign, how he's preparing for session, and what he wants to do under the Gold Dome.
On this week’s show, Kyle and Austin discuss Doug Jones shocking upset of Roy Moore in the Alabama Senate special election. They also discuss Stacey Abrams’ proposal for affordable child care. And they check in on the much-less-affordable #GOPTaxScam.
On this week's show, we discuss the Milledgeville Republican forum held in October between the five candidates running for the Republican nomination for Governor.
This week, we're joined by Patrick Husbands, the Executive Vice President of the Young Democrats of Atlanta, to discuss the Tuesday runoff between Keisha Lance Bottoms and Mary Norwood to decide who will be the next mayor of Atlanta.
On this week’s show, we talk with Melissa Johnson, Senior Policy Analyst at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, about her recent paper, “Laying the Foundation: A Wealth Building Agenda for Georgia Women”. We discuss her proposals in the areas of paid family and medical leave, entrepreneurship, and home ownership. We also talk with Stacey Abrams, former Minority Leader in the Georgia House of Representatives and a Democratic candidate for Governor, about her experience starting businesses and the important role access to capital plays in enabling women, particularly women of color, in starting and growing Georgia businesses.
On this week’s episode, we recap several off-year elections, including special elections for two state house seats that flipped from Democrats to Republicans. We also talk about the results from the Virginia state elections and what those can tell us as we look forward to the midterms in Georgia and nationally next year. We also check in on the Atlanta municipal elections, which feature a runoff between Keisha Lance Bottoms and Mary Norwood.
We briefly discuss the news that during the 1970s Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore was alleged to have dated teenaged girls and molested a 14 year old when he was in his 30s.
On this week’s episode, Luke is joined by Sachin Varghese, candidate in the special election for House District 89. Sachin discusses his ideas for improving the affordability of housing, including a cap on property taxes and affordable housing project requirements. They also talk about Sachin’s background and why he jumped in this special election to replace Stacey Abrams, who left her seat to run for Governor.
Luke sits down with Jonathan Wallace, who is running for state house, to discuss the campaign, why we need to deal with poverty to improve education, and his support for an independent redistricting commission.
On this week’s show, Luke sits down with Richie Knight, candidate for Mayor of Athens. They talk about Richie’s vision for Athens, his background in business, and why Richie thinks workforce issues are one of the most pressing challenges the Classic City faces.
On this week’s episode, we discuss President Trump’s decision to decertify the Iran Nuclear Deal and what it means for the future of the international agreement. We also discuss Gill vs. Whitford, a supreme court case that could revolutionize the future of gerrymandering. And we look at Trump’s toxic relationship with Republicans and Democrats on the opposite end of Pennsylvania Avenue.
On this week’s episode, Kyle takes an extended look at the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). In September, President Trump announced that he was ending DACA, a temporary protection from deportation program, enacted through executive action from President Obama. The program allowed immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, many of whom are now young adults, to stay in the United States and get authorization to work, drive, and go to college.
This week we discuss the resignation of Tom Price as Secretary of Health and Human Services and we look over to our neighbors in Alabama to talk about their special election Senate race.
On this week’s episode, we discuss the first major policy proposal released in the 2018 race for Governor. Stacey Abrams, a Democratic candidate and former Minority Leader of Democrats in the Georgia House of Representatives, released a proposal to increase the number of alternative energy jobs in the state of Georgia. Through worker retraining, the establishment of a Georgia Green Bank, and coordination across state and local government, Abrams estimates her administration could increase the number of alternative energy jobs by 25,000 – 45,000.
On this week's show we are joined by German Lopez of Vox to take a national look at the opioid epidemic. We also discuss the North Korean nuclear threat and white supremacist-led violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.
On this week’s episode, we are joined by Grace Starling, a law student and organizer with Students Against HB 51 and Aisha Yaqoob, the Policy Director for Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Atlanta. Grace and Aisha tell us about the policy issues they worked on last session, what testifying before a legislative committee is like, and how they organized groups and individuals to make their voices heard.
On this week’s episode we take our first look at the 2018 Governor’s race as a few of the candidates hit the ground running. We cover Michael Williams’ attempt to uncover Casey Cagle’s “reprehensible behavior” and how it might have backfired on Williams. We also discuss the ongoing feud over voting between Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp. And we preview the Democratic debate over which voters the party should mobilize and how early fundraising totals set the tone for what is to come.
We’re back for an emergency podcast about the collapse of the Republican effort to repeal and replace Obamacare. On Monday, two Republicans announced their opposition to the Senate’s repeal proposal and joined two other Republicans and united Democratic opposition to kill the bill. We discuss missteps by Mitch McConnell, Trump’s lack of leadership on the issue, and what Democrats should propose we do next. For our second topic, Luke talks with Gabe Shippy about his experience during the Ossoff race and where he sees the Democratic party going from here.
On this week’s show, Luke joins RJ Hadley, a Democratic candidate for Secretary of State. RJ discusses his view of the current Secretary of State’s decision to release voter information to the Trump Administration, his previous campaigns for the U.S. Senate and Rockdale Tax Commissioner, and the future of the Democratic party.
On this week’s episode we return to a little bit of normalcy in the world of Georgia politics. We take a look at the first meeting of the legislature’s transit governance study committee and what might be on the table for increasing transit options in Georgia. We also discuss Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s decision to partially comply with a data request from President Trump’s voter integrity commission. And we discuss Tommy Benton’s Civil War fan fiction and why the issue of remembering the Confederacy still divides southern politics and culture so sharply.
“Donald Trump’s empathy might be the greatest fraud in modern American politics”
On this week’s episode we look back at a year of PeachPod. We began this show as the 2016 election transitioned from the primary to the general election. So we take a look back at what we got wrong about 2016, how anger influences our politics, and whether or not we can sustain the chaos that defines our politics today. We also discuss the challenges in reporting on the legislature, how we miss Jon Richards’ excellent reporting that helped us understand the Gold Dome, and what goals we have for this show going forward.
On this week’s show, we are joined by Austin Wagner, our numbers guru who broke down the data on the sixth district race, and Reed Powell, a Republican activist. The four of us look back at the #GA06 race and check in on Republican efforts to repeal and replace Obamacare.
This week Austin joins Luke to discuss the latest in the Georgia Sixth runoff including death threats, security breaches, and turnout.
We’re back for a second show this week to review the debate Tuesday night between Democrat Jon Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel on WSB TV in Atlanta. We’re joined by friend-of-the-pod Austin Wagner to break down the debate and get his thoughts on where this race is heading.
Stay tuned for more coverage of the 6th District race between now and election day on June 20th.
On this week’s show, we discuss the latest in the race for Georgia’s 6th Congressional District between Karen Handel and Jon Ossoff. We also talk about the budget that the Trump administration released and what the impact of its severe cuts to safety net programs means for Georgia.
Welcome to episode number 50 for PeachPod!
On this week’s show, Luke joins Kyle in studio to record in person in Washington DC. We discuss the latest on the investigation into whether President Donald Trump’s campaign coordinated with Russian operatives in an attempt to impact the 2016 election. We also discuss the emerging campaign on the Democratic side between Stacey Abrams and Stacey Evans for Georgia’s Governorship.
Helena joins Luke to talk about their favorite political TV shows, including the West Wing, Veep, and House of Cards
Kyle is joined by Jason O’Rouke, Senior Director Public Policy & Federal Affairs at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce to discuss health policy. We provide an overview of the Republican Obamacare replacement, the AHCA, how it would impact Georgia, and what other issues are on the minds of Georgia businesses.
Last Saturday, Luke got together with Democratic State Senate Candidate Christine Triebsch. Triebesch is running in the special election for Senate District 32 that was vacated whenJudson Hill ran for the 6th Congressional District seat.
Kyle sits down with State Representative Buzz Brockway to discuss his campaign for Secretary of State and his thoughts on education policy.
Recorded Thursday, May 4th, 2017
Luke and I jumped on the mics to give our reactions to the news that President Trump fired FBI Director James Comey on Tuesday evening.
This is part two of our two-part episode where Luke and I catch up after a little break from PeachPoding. On this episode, we recap what happened to close the legislative session, the special election in #GA6 (VOTE APRIL 18TH!), and the upcoming governor’s race.
Like Part 1, on this episode we riffed off of what we’d seen in the news lately, so we apologize for any facts we may have misremembered. Links below have the background for everything that we discussed.
Luke and I were slow to get together for the recap of the legislative session and all of the crazy news happening nationally. So we recorded a two-part episode to catch up on what happened while we are gone.
We also did an experiment for this episode: we just riffed on what we’d seen in the news lately. So, we apologize for any errors on the facts that we might have misremembered. The links below provide background on all the topics that we discuss throughout.
This episode is part one, and we cover all of the latest news on the national level.
On this week’s episode, we discuss the failure of the American Health Care Act. We also take a look at 2017’s culture war issues in the Georgia General Assembly fought over guns on campus, sexual assault, and same-sex couple adoption. Lastly, we take a way-too-early look at the 2018 governor’s race as dominoes start to fall at the end of this session.
On this week's episode, we muse on what the Republicans could be thinking with their American Health Care Act. We also discuss the opportunity that Prize-Linked Savings Accounts have to help lower-income people save. And we discuss Republican efforts to re-district mid-session to protect their own representatives in close races.
Join me and Tori Slatton to talk about Gorsuch's nomination to the court and what Democrats in the Senate should do about it.
Wesley Tharpe from GBPI joins us to talk some tax policy, and John Dickerson tells us why we need to save the town hall meeting.
Hey everybody. You miss us yet? Well we miss you! We've got a couple special off-season treats for you before the gang gets back together for the 2017 legislative session.
On this week's episode, we cover the development of the Georgia Film Tax Credit and how it turned Georgia into Hollywood East. We also talk about the proliferation of polling models and how they shape the way we understand presidential campaigns. Lastly, we take out weekly look at the Trump Train, including some new faces that may or may not be brought on to help Trump win the race.
On this week's episode we discuss the details from all three days of the Democratic convention, including the big speeches from the convention and the possibility that we are seeing a political realignment unfold before our eyes.
This is a segment from our podcast airing June 7th. In this segment, Megan and Kyle recap the beginning of the LGBTQ movement at the Stonewall Riots in New York City in 1969. We also discuss the legislative history of legal protections against discrimination for people based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.