It's not too late to look ahead to 2014 where all of Georgia's Constitutional offices will be up for grabs from Governor to State School Superintendent.
Its very possible that we could have some Statewide offices go unopposed like what happened in Louisiana because of the very thin and weak bench of prospective Democratic Candidates for office.
Let's look at the potential candidates for governor:
Michael Thurmond
Ex-Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond. Thurmond was Labor Commissioner from 1998-2010. He made a ill fated attempt for the U.S. Senate in 2010, which still leaves me scratching my head as to why he would want to challenge popular Senator Johnny Isakson.
Jim Marshall
Former Congressman Jim Marshall. Marshall served from 2001 to 2010 as congressman of the old 3rd & current 8th district. Marshall, a Vietnam Veteran & former Mayor of Macon would be the democrat's strongest candidate if he were to make one final run for office.
DuBose Porter
Former State Rep. DuBose Porter. Porter was State Rep from 1982 to 2010 'til he left to run for governor. Porter would be the democrats second strongest candidate for governor. He hails from Conservative leaning Laurens County & his like Marshall, knows what it takes for democrats to win in rural Georgia.
Former State Rep. Rob Teilhet. Teilhet mounted a unsuccessful bid for Attorney General in 2010. Teilhet was of the democrats young rising stars in the party.
Ron Teilhet
Thurbert Baker
Former Attorney General Thurbert Baker. Baker, a moderate to conservative African-American Democrat could make another run for the job. Question about Baker is whether or not he has the belly..which was one of my chief concerns about him.
John Barrow
***DARKHORSE Congressman John Barrow. Barrow faces a tough re-election bid in a district (12th) that now extends south into Appling, Coffee counties. I don't want to see this happen because Barrow is doing a fine job serving the folks in the 12th & should be re-elected for another term in November. But if doesn't win re-election (which I think he will) he will definitely get a serious push to run for governor. Barrow, a Conservative Democrat has a independent streak, is a fierce campaigner, a great fundraiser, appeal among African-Americans & has deep roots in Rural Georgia three things that are needed in a democratic candidate in this state
And I think its safe to say that Roy Barnes won't be running for a third time around!
Any Democratic Candidate who is eyeing a run for governor in 2014 needs to begin laying the groundwork in early 2013
Former State Rep Rob Teilhet, now a Executive Director at Georgia Conservation Voters is like DuBose Porter, a bright, intelligent mind that's needed in the Georgia Democratic Party & congress as well.
Like Porter, Teilhet ran statewide last year; against Ken Hodges for Attorney General in the democratic primary. And like Porter, Teilhet is waiting on the sidelines for another possible run for office in 2014, possibly for a statewide office.
But what about congress?
A resident of Smyrna, he is located in the 13th District currently held by David Scott. But there is the possibilty that he could end up in the 11th District, currently held by Rep Phil Gingrey of Marietta. Remember you don't have to live in a particular district here in Georgia to mount a run for congress.
So why shouldn't Teilhet consider a run fir congress in 2012?
Phil Gingrey has won re-election with litttle of no opposition in the NW Georgia district since he won thay seat back in 2002. He has well over $1 million dollars in his bank account just in case a serious challenge were to emerge for his congressional seat.
Like Keown did with Bishop here in the second last year, it is time for democrats to get serious & mount a serious challenge on Georgia Republican Congressmen like Phil Gingrey.
Teilhet was named one of Georgia’s Most Influential People by James Magazine and a “Star to Watch” by the National Journal’s Hotline. In 2007 he joined the leadership of the House Democrats by being elected Chief Deputy Whip. Teilhet fought for and passed legislation giving important legal protections to crime victims, seniors and children, and preventing identity theft. He has also sought to keep vital dollars invested in improving public transportation and reducing traffic congestion. Representative Teilhet sponsored and passed an increase in the homestead exemption for disabled residents of the City of Smyrna. He is a committed champion for Georgia families, and has received awards for his legislative work from, among others, the Cobb County Associations of Educators, Georgia Family Council, Georgia Psychological Association, and the Georgia Water Coalition.
Now folks will say that Teilhet, a graduate of UGA, despite his qualifications can't win in a conservative district like the 11th. That's th kind of mentality that has kept democrats here in the state from advancing in terms of strength in the state of Georgia.
Gingrey, a doctor who played a major role in the Healthcare battle of 2009 really hasn't shown any bi-partisan leanings since being elected to congress 8 years ago.
Teilhet is someone who would give Gingrey a run for his money. Can Teilhet win over Gingrey is a tossup, but it sure would be interesting to see if he could.
Ok! With the 2010 elections now long gone, its time to ponder on 2014 & who may run on the democratic side.
On the senate side, Saxby Chambliss will be up for re-election, as well as every single republican statewide officeholder who won last year in the GOP Tsunami.
So who could step up to the plate for the democrats here in Georgia?
There are alot of different scenarios that could arise when 2014 rolls around, but let's take a stab at it.
On the senate side, two names comes to mind when talking about a possible challenge to Chambliss. (1) Former Congressman Jim Marshall & (2) Michael Thurmond.
Marshall was done in more by the Tsunami that swept Georgia just like it did all over the country than the campaign strategy of Austin Scott in my opinion. Marshall, a moderately conservative democrat haven't ruled out another & final run for office & since he has served in the House of Representatives, only the senate remain in his sights. It won't be the first time Marshall & Chambliss squared off against each other. In 2000, Marshall, then mayor of Macon lost to then-congressman Chambliss by 59-41%. Both men had a good working relationship while Marshall was in Washington because of common interest like RAFB, Agriculture, etc.
Thurmond left a "safe" seat in Labor Commissioner to take on popular Johnny Isakson for the senate. Looking back at the election in november, Thurmond would have gotten swept out of office just like all of the other democrats in the south despite his stellar record as Labor Commish. Thurmond ran a lackluster campaign with weak fundraising to boot. I seriously doubt that's the way Thurmond wants to be remembered. I made the suggestion last year that Thurmond remain at Labor to then run for the senate against Chambliss in 2014.
Governor: Nathan Deal perhaps became the weakest candidate to become governor of Georgia in decades with one allegation after another hanging over his head. Any other year, he might not have won the election for governor with all those things swirling around him. There are three potential candidates for the democrats.
(1) Former Lt Governor candidate & Businesswoman Carol Porter (2) Former State Rep DuBose Porter (3) Jim Marshall (4) Michael Thurmond
Porter (Carol) bust onto the scene with her passionate speech to the NFIB last summer in place of her husband & candidate DuBose Porter. After that, on her own terms she decided to run for Lt Governor due to no other democrat stepping up to the plate. She got just as many votes as did Roy Barnes on a budget that was barely $1 million dollars. She has left a built in base of grassroots support in Georgia. If she decides to run, she will need to shore up Central & South Georgia, where she didn't spend quite as much time at in comparison to Metro Atlanta & North Georgia.
Porter (DuBose) was unsuccessful in his first bid at statewide office. Porter had been a state legislator out of Central Ga since 1982 before giving up his seat to run for governor. Porter is one of the few remaining white, rural democrats still left in the party after 9 others bolted to the GOP. With Roy Barnes political career now a done deal, 2014 maybe the year Porter decides to give it one more try. Plus he's only 57 years old, so he still has alot of political fight left in him. Especially with Education being targeted yet again by the GOP he will have a issue to run with.
Marshall could run for governor & be successful at it. He shares the same central Georgia base along with Carol & Dubose Porter . Having represented a district that ran from the Atl suburbs to the Ga-Fla State line, his connections will be a plus if he guns for the governorship.
Thurmond had eyes on running for governor last year. That was before Thurbert Baker got in the race, which threw a wrench in those plans. Thurmond's communication skills & ability to connect on a personal level with hard working families makes him a threat. He will have to do a better job at fundraising & building a better grassroots organization on the ground
Lt Governor: Casey Cagle at first was thought to run for governor, but had a change of heart & decided to stay at Lt Gov due to "health" issues. He could be a candidate for governor if Deal who is 68 decides not to run for re-election in 2014. Cagle was stripped of most of his power by the GOP majority in the senate, making him ineffective.
Potential candidates here include: (1) Cattle Farmer & State Senator J.B. Powell (2) Former State Rep Rob Teilhet (3) Former Gubernatorial candidate Carl Camon (4) Augusta mayor Deke Copenhaver (5) Thurbert Baker
Powell ran for agriculture commissioner last year losing to Gary Black. Powell, a conservative democrat, a country boy was State Senator of the 23rd District. He could mount another run for his old seat next year. He could have another democratic challenger for that seat in Chuck Pardue of Rural Richmond County. Powell's aw-shucks persona & bluecollar background will appeal to bluecollar types who reside in rural Georgia. A+ rating from NRA
Teilhet, a young energetic democrat lost to South Georgia Democrat Ken Hodges for the nomination for Attorney General. Teilhet future in politics is still bright. He hails from Cobb County where he was succeeded by Stacey Godfrey-Evans in the Statehouse. At age 36, Teilhet is someone to keep an eye on. He could run for Attorney General again, but who knows.
Camon is the former mayor of Ray City, Ga located in Berrien County. Camon, a conservative democrat had a message that resonated with alot of voters, but when you don't have $ behind you, it makes it hard for the rest of the state to hear your message. Camon is the new blood that the party needs to re-invigorate itself after a demoralizing defeat at the polls in 2010. The former USAF Veteran & Gulf War Veteran is a man of deep faith, which scares the hell out of many democrats who aren't so much into religion. I was sold on Camon when I first met him at a outing over in Houston Co back in 2009. At age 41, he's has a future in Georgia Politics. He was recognized as Georgia Trend's top 40 under 40 a few years ago
Coperhaver is the mayor of Georgia's second largest city, Augusta. He was first elected in 2005 to carry out a unexpired term & later elected in 2006 & 2010 as a independent. In 2003, he was recognized by Georgia Trend Magazine as one of Georgia’s “Top Forty Under Forty”. In 2006 and 2008, he was named a Notable Georgian by Georgia Trend Magazine and in 2007, 2009,2010 and 2011 was named as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians. Although a independent, Coperhaver could be persuaded to run as a democratic moderate if he so chooses to run for higher office in the future. At age 43, he is a very attractive candidate to run statewide.
Baker ran & lost the nomination for governor last year. He was the Attorney General, appointed by then governor Zell Miller in 1997. Baker a centrist with a conservative streak may want to give it another try three years from now. Baker co-sponsered the two strikes law & has gotted a A+ rating from NRA
Its never soon to speculate, but as of right now these are the names that comes to mind in talking about 2014 for Georgia Democrats.
Today, State Representative and candidate for Attorney General, Rob Teilhet, became the only Democrat in the race for Attorney General to be endorsed by the National Rifle Association (NRA). The NRA gave him the highest rating—an “A”—for his strong record defending the 2nd Amendment.
The NRA endorses candidates not on party lines, but on their demonstrated records on gun-related issues. Their website states, “Our endorsement is not given lightly; it is something that is reserved for those candidates who meet certain criteria and something that must be earned.”
“I’m proud to be endorsed by the NRA. I firmly believe that all law-abiding citizens have the right to bear arms as guaranteed to them by our nation’s constitution,” said Rep. Teilhet.
Today’s endorsement adds to a growing list of support. Other endorsers include: elected members of the Atlanta City Council Michael Julian Bond, Keisha Lance Bottoms and Alex Wan. Other endorsers include former prosecutor, Speaker of the House, Lt. Governor, appellate judge and Supreme Court Justice George T. Smith, the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, the IBEW Local 613, the Teamsters, Marshal Greg Countryman of Muscogee County, former legislator and U.S. Senate candidate Jim Martin, DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James, Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Elder Bill Harris, the Chairmen of the Legislative Black Caucus, Senator Emanuel Jones, and well over 50 current and former Democratic members of the state legislature.
Rob Teilhet’s campaign for Attorney General focuses on protecting Georgia’s children, crime prevention, ethics in government, and consumer protection. Teilhet is widely known as a champion in the General Assembly for protecting Georgians from rip-offs and con artists. He has been a reliable supporter of law enforcement and crime victims as a member of the House Judiciary Committee. Teilhet has also consistently fought for stronger ethics laws.
This is a huge endorsement for Teilhet. The NRA has a good track record in endorsing candidates.
Today, the AJC PolitiFact Georgia Truth-O-Meter ruled that Rob Teilhet’s allegations against Ken Hodges regarding the Kenneth Walker case were false.
In an interview with the AJC, Teilhet claimed that, “Ken Hodges badly botched this investigation and, as a result, justice wasn't done in this case.” His ad, exploiting the grief of Kenneth Walker’s mother, made incendiary allegations about Hodges’ record.
After extensive investigation, PolitiFact ruled this claim false on their Truth-O-Meter stating, “was this case "badly botched"? So far, there's been no significant evidence to prove that allegation.” Reporters used evidence from first-hand participants in the grand jury investigation, court documents, a Department of Justice press release, along with reports and news articles from the time of the case to determine that Teilhet’s claims were false.
Teilhet claimed, “The officer got off because the prosecutor, Ken Hodges, forgot to swear him in.” This claim is false.
Teilhet claimed Ken Hodges tried to “hide” the video. This claim is false.
Teilhet claimed Ken Hodges “refused to reopen the case.” This claim is false. Rob Teilhet has been held accountable for his gross distortion of the facts. No longer can he play political games with the truth.
Today, leaders in the City of Atlanta Government came out in strong support for Rep. Rob Teilhet in his bid for Attorney General. They include:
- City Councilman Michael Julian Bond, District 3 - City Councilwoman Keisha Lance Bottoms, District 11 - City Councilman Alex Wan, District 6
The three Atlanta City Council members represent a large portion of the city covering the Southwest, West and Northeast areas. All three cited Rob’s experience, leadership in the House Democratic Caucus and his dedication to crime prevention and children as reasons for their endorsements.
“I’m honored to receive the endorsements of Georgia’s newest generation of leaders,” said Teilhet. “Alex, Michael and Keisha are committed to their districts and their constituents. They have fought to keep our kids in school and to keep our streets safe. I will take those same priorities into the Office of Attorney General.”
Teilhet’s campaign boasts numerous endorsements including former prosecutor, Speaker of the House, Lt. Governor, appellate judge and Supreme Court Justice George T. Smith, the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, the IBEW Local 613, Marshal Greg Countryman of Muscogee County, former legislator and U.S. Senate candidate Jim Martin, DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James, Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Elder Bill Harris, the Chairmen of the Legislative Black Caucus, Senator Emanuel Jones, and well over Democratic members of the state legislature.
Rob Teilhet’s campaign for Attorney General focuses on protecting Georgia’s children, crime prevention, ethics in government, and consumer protection. Teilhet is widely known as a champion in the General Assembly for protecting Georgians from rip-offs and con artists. He has been a reliable supporter of law enforcement and crime victims as a member of the House Judiciary Committee. Teilhet has also consistently fought for stronger ethics laws.
Democratic candidate for Attorney General Rob Teilhet will go up with a new statewide ad today featuring the mother of Kenneth Walker who was slained by a Muscogee County Deputy.
Here's the AD:
Hodges was the Special Prosecutor of that Case in November 2004, in which a Muscogee County Grand Jury, which did not indict former deputy sheriff David Glisson for his role in Kenneth Walker’s death. Glisson shot Kenneth Walker during a traffic stop related to a drug investigation. He was unarmed at the time of the shooting and no drugs were found in the vehicle.
Back on July 7, 2007, here's what the Department of Justice (DOJ) & the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, (which was run by GOP candidate for Attorney General Max Wood), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said:
There was insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights charges against a Muscogee County Sheriff’s Deputy who shot and killed Kenneth Walker on December 10, 2003.
An independent investigation, which carefully considered all of the evidence into the shooting incident, was conducted by the Civil Rights Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. During the investigation, federal officials reviewed a Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigative report; a Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office investigative report; forensic evidence reports; a videotape of the incident; and the autopsy report for Kenneth Walker. FBI agents also interviewed a number of witnesses and medical personnel who had not been interviewed by local investigators. The Walker family and local civil rights groups were also afforded the opportunity to provide information to investigators. After carefully reviewing all of the evidence, the Civil Rights Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI determined that the tragic incident did not constitute a prosecutable violation of the federal criminal civil rights statutes.
In order to prove a violation of the applicable federal criminal civil rights laws, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a law enforcement officer willfully deprived an individual of a Constitutional right. To act “willfully,” for purposes of the federal statute, means to act with a bad purpose to disobey or disregard the law. An accident, mistake, fear or bad judgment is not sufficient to establish such a criminal violation.
Experienced civil rights prosecutors reviewed the voluminous reports generated during the investigation. Based on that review, federal officials determined that the evidence was insufficient to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the deputy who fatally shot Kenneth Walker acted willfully, that is with the specific intent to do something the law forbids. Accordingly, the Department has closed this investigation without prosecution.
The Civil Rights Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI devoted many hours and significant resources to a complete and careful review of the events surrounding Kenneth Walker’s tragic death. The decision not to pursue criminal charges is based on painstaking analysis of the facts developed during a lengthy and thorough investigation. The Department of Justice remains committed to investigations of this kind and stands ready to devote the resources required to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are fully and completely investigated. The Department of Justice aggressively prosecutes criminal civil rights violations whenever the evidence developed in these investigations warrants doing so.
In the Ad, Walker's mother stated: But the officer got off because the prosecutor, Ken Hodges, forgot to swear him in, tried to hide the video, and then refused to reopen the case. I could never get an answer why.”
The DOJ report stating it was properly investigated, and Ken acted gracefully.
More facts on the case: The Facts of the Case:
· Hodges allowed police officer David Glisson to make an unsworn statement in front of a grand jury. Glisson shot Kenneth Walker after pulling him over for a standard drug investigation, yet found no evidence of drugs in his vehicle.
· The Walker case incited ill will in the state’s black community, who rallied together to state that Hodges should be “ashamed” of his actions and called for a second grand jury investigation, after the first grand jury failed to indict Glisson.
· In the 2009-2010 state legislative session, legislators filed bills that would amend grand jury procedure regarding indictments of peace officers. The legislation attacked every erring committed by Hodges during Glisson’s trial.
Now no doubt this is a strong ad, but will it be enough to propel Teilhet to the General Election? And what will be the reaction of the Hodges Campaign to this ad? Have to wait & see.
In the Peanut Politics poll, I asked who would you vote for in the Democratic Primary for Attorney General & here are the final results:
Ken Hodges (D-Albany) 53.7%
Rob Teilhet (D-Smyrna) 41.7%
This was to gauge voters interest of the two candidates in the race to replace Thurbert Baker for Attorney General. This will be a closely contested race between the two men who are both strong & capable candidates for Attorney General in the General Election.
Former Prosecutor, Legislator, Speaker of the House, Lt. Governor, Appellate Judge, and Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable George T. Smith endorses Rob Teilhet for Attorney General
The Honorable George T. Smith endorsed Rob Teilhet for Attorney General today. Justice Smith’s impressive career through every branch of government began in Cairo, Georgia and has led him to Marietta, GA where he now resides.
“Rob has a great legal mind coupled with a heart for justice and that will make him one of Georgia’s finest Attorney Generals to date,” said Justice Smith. “I’ve seen every branch of our great government at work, and I have no doubt that Rob Teilhet is the best candidate for this important job. It is my honor to endorse him.”
Justice Smith, a native of Mitchell County began to practice law in Grady County, Georgia after retiring from the Navy as a Lieutenant Commander. In addition to his private law practice, he served as County Attorney, Solicitor of the State Court of Grady County, Cairo City Attorney, and attorney for the Grady County Board of Education.
In 1958 Justice Smith was elected to represent Grady County in the Georgia House of Representatives, where he served for eight years. He became Speaker of the House of Representatives in 1963 and in 1966 he was elected Lieutenant Governor of the State of Georgia. Upon leaving the Lieutenant Governor's office in 1971, Justice Smith returned to the private practice of law in Marietta, Cobb County, Georgia. Just five years later, he was elected to a six-year term as Judge on the Georgia Court of Appeals. At this point in his career, he became the only Georgian in history to have won contested elections in all three branches of Government. A portrait of Justice Smith hangs in the State Capitol building in recognition of this feat.
But Justice Smith was not finished serving the citizens of Georgia. In 1980 he was elected to the Supreme Court of Georgia where he served until 1991. Currently, Justice Smith serves on the Executive Committee of the Appellate Judges Conference.
“It’s been an honor to receive the support from such an impressive man. There is not another person more dedicated to serving the people of Georgia than Justice Smith. And no one can top his resume,” said Teilhet. “Justice Smith knows that fighting for the people of this state is not just a campaign promise to me, it’s the work of my life.”
Justice Smith’s endorsement adds to the campaign’s growing list which includes endorsements from the IBEW Local 613, Marshal Greg Countryman of Muscogee County, former legislator and U.S. Senate candidate Jim Martin, DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James, Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Elder Bill Harris, the Chairmen of the Legislative Black Caucus, Senator Emanuel Jones, eight Democratic State Senators, and over forty current and former Democratic members of the House of Representatives.
Impressive endorsement for Teilhet & I didn't even know Smith was still living to be honest with you.
Leaders from Georgia’s rural cities and towns displayed their support for Attorney General candidate, Representative Rob Teilhet, through powerful endorsements today. The list of endorsers include:
State Representative Ellis Black (HD 174, Valdosta) State Representative Mack Jackson (HD 142, Sandersville) State Representative Sistie Hudson (HD 124, Sparta) State Representative Debbie Buckner (HD 130, Junction City) State Representative Mike Cheokas (HD 140, Americus) Former State Representative Charles Jenkins (Blairsville) Former State Representative Ron Borders (Valdosta) Former State Representative Robert Ray (Fort Valley)
“It’s been an honor to receive the support from my colleagues who represent areas from the North Georgia mountains to South Georgia towns,” said Teilhet. “Today’s endorsements show that Georgians, from every corner of this state, want an Attorney General who will protect our children, prevent crime and fight public corruption. These influential leaders know that I will represent the people first and fight for all Georgians—north, south, rural and urban—and I thank them for their support.”
Today’s endorsements add to the campaign’s growing list which includes endorsements from the IBEW Local 613, Marshal Greg Countryman of Muscogee County, former legislator and U.S. Senate candidate Jim Martin, DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James, Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Elder Bill Harris, the Chairmen of the Legislative Black Caucus, Senator Emanuel Jones, eight Democratic State Senators, and over forty current and former Democratic members of the House of Representatives.
Greensboro, GA—Sharp differences emerged yesterday afternoon between the two Democratic Attorney General Candidates, State Representative Rob Teilhet and Ken Hodges, over the need to protect voting rights in Georgia. Teilhet supports the continued enforcement of the Voting Rights Act to protect minority voters, while Hodges surprised many observers by publicly questioning the ongoing need for the Voting Rights Act of 1965 .
At a question and answer forum hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Hodges stated, as recorded by Andy Peters with the Fulton County Daily Report, "Certainly there was a need for [the law] originally. If there is evidence of discrimination [it should still be enforced], but I have not looked at that [law] to give an opinion on that now."
Rob Teilhet, Democratic candidate for Attorney General, provided a much different answer. In his closing remarks, Teilhet stated there was no “if” about it—discrimination still occurs every day in Georgia. The people of Georgia deserve an Attorney General who stands up against discrimination and who is willing to protect voting rights.
“This is not some obscure law. The Voting Rights Act was landmark legislation designed to protect every American’s right to fully participate in the electoral process,” said Teilhet. “Georgia needs an Attorney General that understands that we still need this law, and will fight to see it enforced. We’ve come a long way since 1965 but the work is not done. The Voting Rights Act ensures that our progress is maintained and it protects the right to vote for all Georgians.”
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was landmark legislation that outlawed discriminatory practices meant to disenfranchise African American voters. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was renewed by Congress several times, the last time being 2006 when it was signed into law by President Georgia W. Bush, and it remains effective for 25 years. Several congressional representatives from southern states, including Georgia, have challenged the need of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 stating that discrimination no longer exists.
Currently, there are two cases challenging the Voting Rights Act of 1965 pending in federal court. One or both of these cases may end up at the United States Supreme Court. Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled narrowly on a challenge, allowing a Texas town to be exempted from the Section 5 requirements of the Act that require preclearance from the U.S. Justice Department without addressing the constitutionality of Section 5. Georgia’s own Legislative Black Caucus—the largest in the nation—submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the protection and preservation of the Voting Rights Act.
In March of 2010 Attorney General Candidate and State Representative Rob Teilhet unveiled a major component of his campaign platform, the creation of a Child Protection Unit within the Office of Attorney General. Today Teilhet announced a top policy priority in the unit— a focus on crime prevention and education. (See Rob’s video announcement here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcLOzLIeVWo )
Teilhet voted against the state budget for Fiscal Year 2011, which once again slashed funding for public education in Georgia, forcing massive teacher layoffs and program cuts across the state.
“Failing to invest in students, mistreating teachers, and turning a blind eye to the crisis unfolding in our schools has to stop,” said Rob Teilhet. “Summer school programs are closing, class sizes are growing, alternative education programs are shutting down. Georgia is systematically removing opportunities for kids to succeed, and we’ll pay for it later,” said Rep. Teilhet.
Education has long been proven an effective prevention measure against unemployment, crime rates and increasing recidivism rates. High school dropouts are eight times more likely to end up in jail or prison. The Department of Corrections reports that 65 percent of Georgia’s prison population did not complete the 12th grade. According to research conducted at Columbia University, if a community could increase its average level of school completion by one year, there is an associated 30 percent decrease in murder and assault rates to follow.
“Georgia cannot afford an Attorney General whose only concern is prosecuting a crime after it has been committed,” said Teilhet. “Georgia needs an Attorney General who will work to prevent crime from happening in the first place. Supporting Georgia’s teachers, kids and schools is the right place to start.”
In addition to investigating and prosecuting those that harm children, Teilhet’s Child Protection Unit will drive policies that will prevent youth perpetuated crime. Supporting education funding and protecting Georgia teachers will be key components of Teilhet’s legislative agenda as Attorney General.
“I can promise this, as Attorney General, no one in the nation will go after child predators as hard as I will. I will make Georgia the toughest state in the country to commit crimes against our kids,” said Teilhet. “At the same time, the Office of the Attorney General will not lose sight of prevention. I vow to work closely with the new state school superintendent to find ways to invest in our kids and give them every opportunity for success in school means less crime in our communities. Better schools mean safer streets. ”
Teilhet has introduced and supported measures to protect Georgia’s children and families since first elected in 2002 and has been a member of the House Education Committee. He has authored numerous crime prevention bills including “The Johnia Berry Act” which would expand Georgia’s DNA database and has been proven to prevent crimes such as murders and rape, “E-STOP” legislation that would prevent registered sex offenders from contacting children on social networking sites, and legislation that requires individuals working at daycare facilities to undergo criminal background checks.
State Representative James "Bubber" Epps (D-Dry Branch), ex-State Rep. Robert Ray (D-Fort Valley) & Democratic Activist Amy Morton all have endorsed Rob Teilhet for State Attorney General.
Here's the press release:
These influential leaders join other Macon supporters of Rob Teilhet including, Macon City Council President Miriam Lucas Paris, City Councilwoman Lauren Benedict and State Representative Nikki Randall (HD 138, Macon.)
“It’s truly been an honor to receive the support by these great middle Georgia leaders,” said Rep. Rob Teilhet. “My supporters know that Georgia needs a strong leader in the office of Attorney General. The Attorney General is so much more than a lawyer prosecuting criminals after a crime has been committed. The Attorney General should be a leader who can create good public policy and offer real solutions that will prevent crime from happening in the first place.”
Today’s endorsement adds to the campaign’s growing list which includes endorsements from the IBEW Local 613, former legislator and U.S. Senate candidate Jim Martin, Muscogee County Marshal Greg Countryman, DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James, Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Elder Bill Harris, both the current and immediate past Chairmen of the Legislative Black Caucus, Senator Emanuel Jones and Representative Al Williams, eight Democratic State Senators, and over forty current and former Democratic members of the House of Representatives.
And also over in Columbus, he gets the endorsement of State Reps. Carolyn Hughley (D-Columbus), Debbie Buckner (D-Junction City) & Mike Cheokas (D-Americus)
They join endorsers Muscogee County Marshall Greg Countryman, who announced his support last week & former Columbus area State Representative Tom Buck (D-Columbus).
One week from today, the legislative session will end and Rob Teilhet will be campaigning to be your next Attorney General full-time. It’s been a busy four months for him—balancing his time under the Gold Dome, practicing law, spending quality time with Heather and his beautiful daughters, and hitting the campaign trail. Yesterday he was in session past 10:00 at night!
Luckily, Rob has been able to participate in events and meet supporters from every corner of this state. Just last week, he attended the Gwinnett County Bar Association Attorney General Candidate Forum. After watching the tape of the forum, I learned about another stark contrast between Rob Teilhet and his primary opponent.
The moderator asked the candidates, “Who is your favorite U.S. Supreme Court Justice—throughout history—and why is he or she your favorite?”
That’s a tough question to answer—there have been so many absolutely brilliant men and women on our highest court and their decisions have helped shape our nation’s democracy into what it is today. But for Rob, the answer was easy. He picked Justice Thurgood Marshall. As to the question, "Why?" -- Rob spoke about Justice Marshall arguing the case of Brown v Board of Education—ending segregation in our nation's schools. Rob noted that he was the first African American to be appointed to the bench and he told the crowd that Justice Marshall was simply “groundbreaking.”
His Democratic primary opponent, Ken Hodges, gave a much different answer. He said, “Scalia”—one of the most conservative Justices in our nation’s history. Justice Antonin Scalia's positions on many important issues are about as far from the Democratic party that you can get.
Ken Hodges’ reason as to why he is his favorite Justice throughout history was simple—he goes hunting with him. He said that, “He’s been a very good Justice.” I've put together a little video of his answer and you can watch it HERE.
This is another example of the two candidates' different political leanings. Philosophically, they come from different places. While Rob was supporting Democrats Jim Marshall, Max Cleland and Jim Martin, Ken Hodges was giving money to Republican Saxby Chambliss to beat those good Democrats. Rob looks to the legacy left by Justice Thurgood Marshall for inspiration and Ken Hodges looks to one of the most polarizing, Republican leaders of our time.
Primary elections can be difficult. Often there are two people, with similar political platforms and political histories, running for the same job. This primary election is going to be different. Rob Teilhet and his opponent are very different people—with different values and different philosophies.
I know Rob is looking forward to qualifying for office next week. After the legislative session ends he will be working non-stop to bring his vision for the Office of Attorney General to the people of Georgia.
Our support continues to build with Labor, Women Leaders, Civil Rights Leaders, Faith Leaders, Prosecutors, Leaders in the Democratic Party and so many more endorsing Rob Teilhet for Georgia's next Attorney General.
And I count myself as lucky and blessed to be working for his campaign.
Sincerely,
Rebecca DeHart Campaign Manager for Rob Teilhet for Attorney General
The Honorable Robert D. James Jr. endorsed Representative Rob Teilhet's campaign for Attorney General today. James currently serves as the Solicitor-General in DeKalb County and is the President-Elect of the Georgia Association of Solicitor-Generals.
“Rob Teilhet has the track record, the experience and the skills to make families safer in Georgia,” said Solicitor James. “He has spent years protecting victims of crime and supporting law enforcement, and I am honored to endorse his campaign for Attorney General.”
Having prosecuted nearly 13,000 criminal cases including domestic violence, vehicular homicide, animal cruelty, and educational neglect annually since his election, Solicitor-General James has worked tirelessly to protect the citizens of DeKalb County. With a strong belief in prevention, Solicitor-General James has created programs within his office to prevent elder and disabled adult abuse and campaigns to educate youth and first-time offenders. Prior to becoming Solicitor-General, James served as an Assistant District Attorney in Rockdale County and as a special prosecutor with the DeKalb County District Attorney's Crimes Against Children Unit, where he protected DeKalb’s children from abuse and sexual predators. He is a former president of the DeKalb Lawyer’s Association, a board member of the DeKalb Bar Association, and is the President-Elect of the Georgia Association of Solicitor-Generals.
“Rob Teilhet understands that investing in children from the start can go a long to preventing criminal behavior down the road,” said Solicitor James. “And there is no other candidate who will work harder to protect our children from abuse, sexual predators and exploitation.”
“I am honored to receive the support of Solicitor James. He has an outstanding of record of prosecuting abuse and fighting for justice. His work, particularly his efforts to protect the children in his county, is an inspiration to me,” said Representative Teilhet. “I look forward to working with him to create a safer and more just Georgia.”
DeKalb Solicitor-General James’ endorsement follows recent announcements from other endorsers including: Civil Rights leader Elder Bill Harris, Representative Tyrone Brooks, Senator Vincent Fort and the Chairman of Georgia's Legislative Black Caucus and nominee for the Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, Senator Emanuel Jones, the IBEW Local Union 613, former legislator and former candidate for U.S. Senate Jim Martin, and dozens of legislators from every corner of the state.
Teilhet’s campaign for Attorney General focuses on protecting Georgia’s children, crime prevention, ethics in government, and consumer protection. Teilhet is widely known as a champion in the General Assembly for protecting Georgians from rip-offs and con artists. He has been a reliable supporter of law enforcement and crime victims as a member of the House Judiciary Committee. Teilhet has also consistently fought for stronger ethics laws.
Attorney General Candidate Rob Teilhet unveiled today a major component of his campaign platform, a new Child Protection Unit within the Office of Attorney General, and the continuation of his YouTube series, “Teilhet TV: Inside Georgia”—the first of which is dedicated to his proposed measure to protect children on the internet. His latest installment can be viewed HERE.
“There is no limit on how hard we can fight for our children’s safety,” said Representative Teilhet. “As an elected official, an attorney and most importantly- father of two little girls, I know that we can—we must—do more to protect Georgia’s kids.”
Teilhet’s proposed Child Protection Unit within the Attorney General’s office will coordinate and participate in the investigation and prosecution against those that harm children. Teilhet’s Child Protection Unit will also promote policy to prevent crime targeted at and perpetuated by youth in Georgia.
“You must have a two-pronged approach,” said Teilhet. “We cannot afford an Attorney General who thinks that his job starts after a crime has been committed. We need to start at the beginning. This means investing in our kids, giving them a real chance to succeed as well as expanding and enforcing our laws regarding crimes against children and cracking down on those who break them.”
Teilhet has introduced and supported measures to protect Georgia’s children and families since first elected in 2002. Just this year, he authored two strong pieces of crime prevention legislation. Teilhet’s “Johnia Berry Act,” HB 1033, would expand Georgia’s DNA database by collecting a simple cheek-swab sample from felony arrestees while collecting fingerprints and mug shots. Twenty-one other states and the federal government have passed similar measures and research indicates that such a law will actually prevent murders and rapes from happening in our state. The bill is named for Gwinnet residents Joan and Michael Berry’s daughter Johnia, who was brutally murdered several years ago. DNA led to the murderer’s arrest.
Teilhet is also the author of ‘E-STOP,” HB 1290. This legislation would allow the GBI to give a list of registered sex offenders to popular online social networking websites, like Facebook and MySpace, who would then ban the offenders from creating a profile. Teilhet’s newest YouTube video explains this bill and why protecting our kids online is paramount to his campaign.
“I can promise this, as Attorney General, no one in the nation will go after predators who are trying to hurt our children as hard as I will. I will make Georgia the toughest state in the country to commit crimes against our kids,” said Teilhet. “Law enforcement, the GBI and prosecutors around the state will have the full backing of the Attorney General’s office. And we will work together to develop and support sound policy to prevent crime from happening in the first place.”
Smyrna,GA– In an effort to protect Georgia’s children from online predators, Representative Rob Teilhet of the 40th House District authored the ‘Electronic Security and Targeting of Online Predators Act’—or ‘E-STOP’—to remove registered sex offenders from popular online social networking websites like MySpace and FaceBook.
“The internet is a powerful social and educational tool for our children. It should not be a dangerzone populated by pedophiles,” said Representative Teilhet. “Nothing is more important than keeping our children safe from predators, and passing E-STOP is a strong first step.”
E-STOP will allow the GBI, upon request, to transmit registered sex offenders’ information to authorized social networking websites. These internet entities can then remove the sex offenders from their websites and ban them from creating profiles. In the course of removing the sex offenders from the site, if the website finds suspicious activity, such as inappropriate communications with minors, the website providers will notify GBI.
“A lot has changed from when I was growing up—including how children come into contact with strangers. It’s not just the playgrounds and neighborhoods parents have to worry about, it’s our home computers and the internet,” said Representative Teilhet. “Our kids are playing, studying and communicating with their friends online. Social networking websites are a way of life for kids these days—and child predators know it.”
Social networking websites allow users to sign up and communicate with other users over the internet. Communications can include, but are not limited to, instant messaging, emailing, and sharing photographs and videos. Two popular social networking websites are MySpace and FaceBook, and both of those sites are already working hard to keep their users, particularly minors, safe from online predators. But social networking companies can only do so much without the cooperation of law enforcement.
Studies indicate that between two of the most popular sites, FaceBook and MySpace, more than 100 million minors maintain active profiles. Statistics from online safety advocates such as Enough is Enough, indicate that 1 in 5 children who use chat rooms have been approached by pedophiles over the Internet and that 1 in 33 children were aggressively solicited for sex online. Sadly, only 25 percent of those children ever told their parents about the solicitation.
“These website companies want to do the right thing. MySpace has already removed 50,000 child predators who had established profiles. But to keep these sites safe they need us to provide the data,” said Representative Teilhet.
E-STOP legislation has already become law in New York and both California and Oklahoma are considering similar measures this year.
Smyrna,GA– Elder William “Bill” Harris endorsed Representative Rob Teilhet’s campaign for Attorney General today. Elder Harris, a native of Albany, GA, is currently the Chaplin for The Coalition for the People's Agenda, convened by Dr. Joseph Lowery, and the Chaplin for the Fulton County Sherriff's Department.
“Rob Teilhet has an impressive record of service,” said Elder Harris. “His dedication to Civil Rights is exemplary and he is the only candidate in the race who has a strong record on Civil Rights. I am honored to join many of my colleagues and endorse his campaign for Attorney General.”
Elder Harris is a former Freedom Singer for justice and he served as a field worker for the Student Non-Violent Coordination Committee and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). A veteran of the United States Army, Elder Harris worked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the height of the Civil Rights Movement and later co-founded the Veterans Civil Rights Movement Organization SCLC affiliated chapter. Instrumental in the pivotal Mississippi March, Elder Harris was beaten and jailed along with other Freedom Fighters. In 1998 his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement were honored and placed in the Albany Civil Rights Movement Museum. Elder Harris is also the founder and pastor of Bethel Church Ministries, Inc. in Monroe, Georgia.
“It’s been such an honor to receive the support of Elder Harris. His incredible history of fighting for justice is an inspiration to me,” said Teilhet. “Fighting for a safer, more just Georgia is more than a campaign platform for me—it is my life’s work.”
Elder Harris joins other Civil Rights leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks, Senator Vincent Fort and the Chairman of Georgia’s Legislative Black Caucus and nominee for the Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, Senator Emanuel Jones. Other endorses include the IBEW Local Union 613, former legislator and former candidate for U.S. Senate Jim Martin, and dozens of legislators from every corner of the state.
Today, the IBEW Local Union 613, affiliate of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and nearly 800,000 members strong, endorsed Rob Teilhet’s bid to be Georgia’s next Attorney General.
“Rob Teilhet is among the best of the best of those who stand-up for the working people in Georgia,” said Gene O’Kelley, the Business Manager of the IBEW Local Union 613. “He is the strongest candidate running for Attorney General and he has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to families in Georgia throughout his career.”
Ben Myers, Political Director for the IBEW Local Union 613 agreed. “Georgia needs to elect an Attorney General who has a great understanding of the challenges faced by Georgia’s working families. Rob Teilhet is the right person for the job. He has the best experience, the greatest know-how, and the right principles. We support him completely.”
Representative Rob Teilhet was honored to receive these endorsements. “I’m thankful for the work that that the IBEW Local 613 has done for working people in this state and I’m honored by this endorsement. The people of Georgia have the right to expect an Attorney General who works for them and who will fight for them.”
Today’s announcement follows a series of recent endorsements for Representative Teilhet that are geographically diverse across Georgia. Teilhet has announced endorsements by Civil Rights Leaders Representative Tyrone Brooks and Senator Vincent Fort, former legislator and candidate for United States Senate, Jim Martin, Georgia's Legislative Black Caucus Chairman Emanuel Jones, and influential elected officials in Savannah, Augusta and Marietta.
