The 2026 Georgia legislative session is in its early phase, having convened on Monday, January 12, 2026 as the second year of the 158th General Assembly. The General Assembly meets for 40 legislative days, with Crossover Day set for March 6 (Day 28) and Sine Die on April 2 (Day 40) as laid out in the session calendar published by Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB).
Source: GPB – 2026 Georgia General Assembly

Since January 20, 2026, the Assembly’s work has been dominated by budget hearings, tax and affordability debates, and early movement on a handful of policy bills.

1. Budget, Taxes, and “Affordability” Focus

While detailed appropriations bill numbers and line items are still moving through committees after Joint Appropriations hearings (Jan 20–22), the broad thrust of fiscal policy is clear:

a. Tax Relief & Affordability Theme

Media and political insiders describe “affordability” as the core theme of the 2026 session, with competing Republican proposals on how to cut taxes:

• House: Property Tax Relief and Potential Elimination

  • House Speaker Jon Burns is championing aggressive property tax relief, positioned as a key affordability measure.
  • As of Day 8 (Jan 28/29), GPB reports that House Republicans filed legislation to eliminate property taxes on primary residences by 2032, combined with immediate relief via:
    • Annual increases (doubling or more) of the state homestead exemption, and
    • Homeowner tax relief grants averaging about $500 per family.
  • The proposal would require a constitutional amendment and thus a two‑thirds vote in both chambers, meaning Democratic cooperation is necessary.
    Source: GPB Day 8 recap

• Senate: Income Tax Elimination Plan

  • Senate leadership, including Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and Sen. Blake Tillery, is pushing a plan to eliminate the state income tax by 2032.
  • The proposal (bill number TBD at session start) would:
    • Make the first $50,000 of income for individuals, and $100,000 for joint filers, tax‑exempt beginning in 2027,
    • Effectively remove roughly two‑thirds of Georgia workers from the state income tax rolls in the early phase.
      Source: FOX 5 Atlanta session preview

Net effect since 1/20:

• Competing big‑ticket tax frameworks are now both formally in play:
  • House: constitutional‑level property tax elimination for primary residences.
  • Senate: phased elimination of the state income tax.
• This sets up a major negotiation later in the session as budget and revenue bills advance.

2. Infrastructure, Education & Public Services

a. Session Calendar & Appropriations Activity

• Jan 20–22, 2026 – Joint Appropriations Hearings:
  GPB’s calendar shows these as dedicated days for budget work, with no regular floor session listed. Committees and joint panels used this window to examine the Amended FY 2026 budget and initial framing for FY 2027 before floor days resumed.
  Source: GPB – 2026 Georgia General Assembly

b. K–12 Education & School Operations

• Outdoor Instruction & School Provisions – SB 148

  • SB 148, originally a bill to allow teachers to hold outdoor classes, picked up significant House amendments including:
    • Hunting safety training,
    • Additional teacher sick days, and
    • Expanded availability of defibrillators in schools.
  • As of Day 8 (late Jan), GPB reports the amended bill passed unanimously in the Senate’s reconsideration context.
    Source: GPB Day 8 recap

• High School Cell Phone Restrictions – “Next Step” After K–8 Ban

  • Building on an existing K–8 cell phone ban (HB 340) that’s already law, Speaker Burns has publicly prioritized extending restrictions to grades 9–12.
  • As of early session (pre‑Crossover), FOX 5 notes that this high‑school expansion is a priority bill yet to be assigned a number but expected to move this year.
    Source: FOX 5 Atlanta

• Autism Indicator on Driver’s Licenses (New Proposal)

  • On Day 8, GPB reports lawmakers and autism advocates backing a bill to allow drivers with autism to opt into a special symbol on their driver’s licenses, intended to help law enforcement recognize hidden disabilities during stops or encounters.
  • The bill number is not specified in the recap, but the policy concept is now formally in the discussion and being advanced by proponents.
    Source: GPB Day 8 recap

3. Notable Individual Bills and Their Status (Activity Since 1/20)

Below is a concise tracker of key bills either explicitly reported as moving since January 20 or identified as “live” 2026 bills with action expected in this window.

Bills with explicit floor action reported after Jan 20

1. SB 148 – Outdoor Classes / School Provisions

   • Subject: Outdoor instruction, hunting safety training, teacher sick leave, school defibrillators.
   • Recent action: GPB reports unanimous passage after House amendments were considered.
   • Implication: Close to final approval, pending reconciliation of House/Senate language if necessary.
   • Source: GPB

2. HB 443 – Fishing License Fees

   • Subject: Sets fees for various fishing licenses across species.
   • Recent action: House approved Senate changes (late January).
   • Implication: Nearing or at the “ready for governor” stage, depending on prior status.
   • Source: GPB

3. SB 170 – Homelessness Council / Rural Hospital Generators

   • Subject: Originally an interagency council on homelessness; the House substituted it to fund backup generators for rural hospitals.
   • Recent action: The substituted version failed to pass in the Senate.
   • Implication: As currently drafted, SB 170 is stalled; it would need further procedural maneuvering or a new bill vehicle.
   • Source: GPB

High‑interest “live” bills positioned for 2026 decisions

(These were identified pre‑session or at the start and are expected to move through committees and possibly see floor activity between late January and Crossover Day.)

From FOX 5 Atlanta:

• SB 34 – Data Center Tax Incentives

  • Subject: Revises tax exemptions and treatment of data centers, reflecting concern about their heavy power and infrastructure demands.
  • Status entering 2026: Returning to the Senate floor this month; it already has a legislative history and will be part of the early “affordability / growth vs. infrastructure strain” debate.

• SB 120 – DEI in Education

  • Subject: Provisions related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in education.
  • Status: Tabled on March 6, 2025. To move in 2026, it must be “taken from the table” for a new vote in the Senate. It remains a potential flashpoint but not yet re‑activated on the floor as of late January.

• SB 214 – Hand‑Marked Ballots / Election Administration

  • Subject: Transition to hand‑marked paper ballots and related election administration provisions.
  • Status: Passed the Senate in April 2025; now sitting in the House, needing committee action to reach the floor during the 2026 session.

• HB 2 – Gun Safe Storage

  • Subject: Firearm safe storage requirements.
  • Status: Live for 2026 in House Ways and Means, where it remained throughout 2025. Advancement would require committee action this session.

• HB 260 – Property Tax Relief / Constitutional Amendment Path

  • Subject: Framework to change property tax provisions, including a path to a voter referendum in November 2026.
  • Status: Marked as needing 2026 passage to stay on track because it was “Withdrawn and Recommitted” in April 2025. If not advanced this session, the referendum timeline slips.

4. Political & Issue Climate Since 1/20

While not strictly “bill text,” the political floor speeches and debates shape which bills move:

• Immigration & ICE‑Related Debate

  • GPB’s Day 8 recap documents heated Senate debate over federal immigration enforcement and the Minneapolis shooting of Alex Pretti, with Democrats criticizing the Trump administration and Republicans emphasizing crimes by undocumented immigrants in Georgia.
  • This rhetoric does not yet correspond to a single marquee “immigration bill” reported as moving since Jan 20, but it signals high likelihood of enforcement or sanctuary‑related measures emerging or being revived.
    Source: GPB Day 8 recap

• Data Centers Backlash

  • GPB’s General Assembly coverage page points to a surge of bills targeting data centers driven by local opposition to their power and water use—these intersect with measures like SB 34 and potential new filings.
  • Status detail on each bill will come from the General Assembly’s bill search and committee schedules.
    Source: GPB – 2026 Georgia General Assembly

5. Key Dates Going Forward (Legislative Mechanics)

From the GPB 2026 calendar:

• Days already passed:
  • Day 1–5: Jan 12–16
  • Joint Appropriations: Jan 20–22 (off‑calendar for floor work)
  • Day 6–9: Jan 26–29
• Upcoming Landmark Dates:
  • Crossover Day – March 6 (Day 28): Last day for a bill to pass its chamber of origin to remain viable this session.
  • Sine Die – April 2 (Day 40): Final legislative day; any bills not passed by both chambers die and must be reintroduced in a later session.
    Source: GPB – 2026 Georgia General Assembly

The 2026 Georgia legislative session is currently in its early stages, having officially convened on Monday, January 12, 2026.¹ This is the second year of the 158th General Assembly, and the atmosphere at the Gold Dome is heavily focused on fiscal policy, as Governor Brian Kemp delivers his final State of the State address of his term.

Here are the key developments and priorities emerging from the session so far:

1. Major Budget & Tax Proposals

Governor Kemp has proposed a massive spending plan for the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 and FY 2027, centered on returning surplus cash to residents:

• Income Tax Cuts: A proposal to accelerate the reduction of the state’s personal income tax rate to 4.99%, fulfilling a campaign promise three years ahead of schedule.

  

• Tax Rebates: A proposed $1 billion tax rebate, which would provide approximately $250 for single filers and up to $500 for married couples filing jointly.

  
  

• State Employee Raises: The governor has requested a one-time $2,000 pay supplement for all full-time state employees, including public school teachers and law enforcement officers.

  

• Property Tax Relief: House Speaker Jon Burns has indicated that the House will be "laser-focused" on making living in Georgia more affordable, with a specific push to address rising property taxes and potentially eliminate the homestead property tax statewide.

  

2. Infrastructure & Education

• Transportation: A significant $1.8 billion investment has been proposed to improve infrastructure, specifically targeting congestion on I-75.

  
  

• Literacy Efforts: Legislative leaders are prioritizing funding for literacy coaches and expanded screenings for learning challenges in K-12 schools.

  

• Cell Phone Ban: There is active discussion and legislation (like the "Distraction-Free Education Act") aimed at banning or severely restricting cell phone use in high school classrooms to improve student focus.

  

3. Key Bills on the "Hopper"

While many bills are still in committee, several notable pieces of legislation have already been introduced or are gaining traction:

• School Choice & Safety: Continued debate over school vouchers and new standards for school playgrounds and safety.

  

• Tort Reform: Following major legislation last year, the governor is pushing for further "comprehensive tort reform" to lower insurance premiums for businesses and individuals.

  

• Health & Social Issues: Bills have been filed regarding the regulation of kratom (HB 968) and requiring separate restroom/changing areas in schools based on biological sex.

  

• Legalized Gambling: There is renewed talk of a bill to legalize sports betting or casino gambling, though it remains a perennial "wait and see" issue.

  
  

4. Important Dates to Watch

The Georgia session is limited to 40 legislative days, which means it moves quickly.

• Crossover Day (March 6): The deadline for a bill to pass its original chamber to remain "alive" for the year.

  

• Sine Die (April 2): The final day of the 2026 session.

  
  

Below is a practical, step-by-step roadmap for how Georgia could move from the current Dominion ballot-marking device (BMD) system to hand-marked paper ballots (with scanners), in a way that’s legally clean, operationally realistic, and auditable.

A key reality up front: Georgia already has paper (the BMD prints a paper ballot), but if you mean “ditch the touchscreen/BMD as the default and have most voters mark paper by hand,” that requires changing state law, not just Election Board rules. Recent coverage makes that point pretty bluntly. (AP News)

Step-by-step plan for Georgia to switch to hand-marked paper ballots

1) Define the target system (so everyone argues about the same thing)

Write a plain-English “target state” spec that answers:

• Default method: hand-marked optical-scan paper ballots

• Accessibility: ballot-marking devices available for voters who need them

• Tabulation: precinct scanners + central count backup

• Ballot production: ballot-on-demand printers (reduces pre-print complexity)

This avoids the classic reform failure mode: “paper ballots” meaning five different things to five different groups.

2) Change Georgia law that mandates uniform BMD voting

Georgia’s State Election Board has been told (including via court action and legal arguments) that big policy shifts are the legislature’s job, not an agency rulemaking workaround. (AP News)

So, the General Assembly would need to pass a bill that:

• Makes hand-marked paper ballots the default for in-person voting

• Preserves BMDs for accessibility (ADA/HAVA alignment)

• Updates “uniformity” language so uniformity = paper ballot system, not uniform BMD use (there are references in Georgia materials to uniform BMD voting expectations). (Cherokee GA Votes)

3) Set a realistic transition date (and don’t pick the worst possible moment)

Pick an implementation date that gives counties time to procure, train, and test—ideally not right before a presidential election. Georgia lawmakers have discussed equipment-change timing pressures in the run-up to coming cycles. (Georgia Recorder)

A common approach:

• Pilot + local elections first

• Statewide rollout after one full election cycle of operational learning

4) Inventory what Georgia already owns and what must be replaced/added

You don’t start by buying shiny new stuff—you start by counting what’s in the warehouse.

Inventory:

• Current Dominion components in use (BMDs, scanners, election management system)

• What can be retained (some scanners/EMS may or may not be compatible depending on certifications and configuration)

• What must be added:

  • Ballot-on-demand printers

  • Privacy booths designed for hand-marking

  • Extra precinct scanners (or throughput planning)

  • Secure ballot boxes and transport containers

5) Address the Dominion contract and procurement path

Georgia would need a contract/legal review and then either:

• Amend/exit current agreements where allowed, or

• Let terms expire and procure a paper-ballot-centered system

Georgia’s Dominion deal dates back to the 2019 award and related contract documents exist publicly. (Georgia Public Broadcasting)

This step is where “simple idea” meets “grown-up paperwork.”

6) Select the equipment model and certify it properly

Georgia would need:

• State certification through the Secretary of State’s process

• Alignment with federal guidelines and security practices (EAC VVSG context), plus state testing/logic & accuracy protocols

Procure in a way that’s:

• Competitive

• Transparent

• Supportable long-term (maintenance, parts, service-level agreements)

7) Rebuild election procedures around paper as the primary record

This is the unglamorous, critical part:

• Chain of custody updates

• Ballot accounting (ballots issued, spoiled, cast, scanned, secured)

• Storage and retention procedures

• Recount triggers and recount workflows

Georgia already requires emergency paper ballots at polling places and procedures for having enough blank paper ballots in emergencies—those provisions become “Plan B becomes Plan A,” but with a much more robust operating manual. (Georgia Rules and Regulations)

8) Run pilots and stress tests (throughput is the silent killer)

Hand-marked ballots can be very smooth—or can bottleneck if you under-resource scanners/booths.

Pilot goals:

• Average voter time end-to-end

• Scanner capacity during rush periods

• Spoiled ballot rates and how well poll workers handle them

• Accessibility flow (BMD usage when needed)

• End-of-night closing procedures

9) Train like it’s a franchise rollout (consistent, repeatable, tested)

Build training that is:

• Modular (poll workers, managers, techs, transport teams)

• Scenario-based (scanner jams, ballot damage, long lines, printer issues)

• Measurable (short assessments, sign-offs)

Also: update voter education materials (sample ballots, “how to mark correctly,” what happens if you overvote, etc.).

10) Fund it (state + counties) with a boring, credible budget

A serious plan includes:

• One-time capital costs (printers, scanners, booths)

• Ongoing costs (paper, printing, maintenance, storage)

• Staffing/training costs

• Contingency stock

Federal election security/HAVA-style grants sometimes help, but Georgia should budget assuming state + county funding is required.

11) Roll out statewide with a dual-system contingency (temporarily)

For the first statewide cycle, many jurisdictions keep a fallback:

• Extra emergency ballots

• Backup scanners / central count plan

• Clear rules for “scanner down” procedures

This is standard resilience planning—because elections are allergic to surprises.

12) Post-election audits and continuous improvement (make it boringly trustworthy)

After rollout:

• Publish performance metrics (wait times, spoilage rates, scanner error rates)

• Improve procedures

• Tighten audits and public reporting

If you want trust, you want the process to feel like an airport checklist: not exciting, just consistently correct.

What would be the fastest path?

Legislation first, then pilots, then procurement, then statewide rollout. Without the law change, Georgia remains largely locked into BMD-as-default, as even recent State Election Board debates have highlighted. (AP News)

With the Georgia 2026 legislative session starting soon, I figured we'd start a conversation about the Georgia budget.

Most important issues affecting Cherokee County reflected in this FY26 Georgia budget report

This Governor’s Budget Report is statewide (not county-by-county), but several big-ticket items and policy areas in it map directly onto what tends to matter most in fast-growing Cherokee County: roads, water/sewer capacity, schools, public safety, and cost-of-living/taxes.

1) Transportation capacity + congestion (state & local road funding)

Cherokee’s growth makes mobility the #1 pressure point. The report emphasizes major transportation investment and explicitly boosts money that can reach local governments.

• $743M for GDOT “capital construction and freight infrastructure projects” (AFY 2025 narrative).
• $250M additional for Local Road Assistance grants to local governments (AFY 2025 highlights, “Mobile Georgia”).
• $60M for the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (low-interest loans/grants for local transportation/mobility projects).

Why it matters locally: even if specific projects aren’t listed for Cherokee here, these are the buckets that typically fund/enable corridor improvements, intersection work, and local road resurfacing/upgrade support.

2) Water & wastewater infrastructure (capacity for growth)

Fast residential and commercial growth stresses water/sewer systems. The report makes water infrastructure a central theme in one-time investments:

• $250M to the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority for water/wastewater infrastructure via loans and grants to local governments (AFY 2025 highlights).
• The Governor’s letter also frames a large share of one-time funds going to “water and transportation infrastructure” statewide.

Why it matters locally: Cherokee’s ability to approve/serve new development and maintain service levels is constrained by plant capacity, lines, and long-lead capital projects—this is the primary state-level funding channel mentioned.

3) K-12 school growth + school safety

Enrollment growth and staffing/benefits costs are key issues in Cherokee County schools.

• $305.9M for K-12 enrollment growth and training/experience (FY 2026 highlights).
• $173.8M for the state share of employer increases for certified educators participating in the State Health Benefit Plan (FY 2026 highlights).
• $50M one-time for school security grants (AFY 2025 highlights).
• $20M to replace 227 school buses (FY 2026 highlights).

Why it matters locally: these items affect class sizes, staffing costs, and school operations—especially in a high-growth district.

4) Public safety / corrections / courts pressure

Even if county government doesn’t run state prisons, state public-safety spending influences local crime response, jail backlogs, court caseload flow, and overall enforcement capacity.

• The report calls out over $603M combined (AFY25 + FY26 proposals) for Georgia Department of Corrections improvements (Governor’s letter narrative).
• It also includes statewide investments in enforcement/investigation capacity (e.g., GBI facilities/equipment in highlights).

Why it matters locally: staffing and capacity issues upstream/downstream can affect how quickly cases move, detention pressures, and coordination with local agencies.

5) Tax relief / cost-of-living impacts (property-tax related relief + rebates)

For Cherokee residents, affordability and taxes are always front-and-center.

• The Governor’s letter states more than $7.6B returned via “property tax relief, motor fuel tax relief, and income tax rebates and cuts” since 2021, and proposes an additional $1B one-time tax rebate.

Why it matters locally: while this isn’t “Cherokee-only,” it directly affects household budgets and the political environment around local millage rates, SPLOST, and service demands.

Cherokee County FY 2026 Budget Impact: A 1-Pager for Local Leaders

As Cherokee County continues its rapid growth, the FY 2026 Georgia State Budget offers several high-impact funding streams and grant opportunities. Below is a breakdown of the "likely winners" for our community, detailing what is funded, who applies, and why it matters for our local infrastructure and economy.

1. Transportation & Infrastructure (The "Mobile Georgia" Initiative)

• Local Road Assistance (LRA) Grants: An additional $250M is allocated for local road maintenance. This is a direct boost to the existing LMIG (Local Maintenance & Improvement Grant) program.
  • Who Applies: Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and City Public Works departments (Woodstock, Canton, etc.).
  • Local Relevance: This funding is critical for resurfacing and safety improvements on high-traffic local corridors like Highway 92 and Bells Ferry Road.
• Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB): $60M in competitive grants and low-interest loans for local projects.
  • Who Applies: Local governments and Community Improvement Districts (CIDs).
  • Local Relevance: Ideal for "gap funding" on major intersection improvements or bridge replacements that need a final push to reach the construction phase.

2. Water & Wastewater Development

• GEFA Low-Interest Loans: $250M is added to the Georgia Fund specifically for water and sewer infrastructure.
  • Who Applies: Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority (CCWSA) and municipal utility departments.
  • Local Relevance: As new developments (HOAs/SaaS targets) come online, these loans provide the capital needed to expand capacity without immediate, massive rate hikes for residents.
• Federal Match Funding: $24.9M is set aside to match federal Clean Water and Drinking Water funds, ensuring Georgia (and Cherokee) doesn't leave federal dollars on the table.

3. Education & Workforce Growth

• K-12 Vocational & High-Demand Equipment Grants: $1.25M for vocational classrooms and $178.5M for statewide school construction/renovation.
  • Who Applies: Cherokee County School District (CCSD).
  • Local Relevance: Supports the expansion of CTI (Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education) programs, ensuring local students are "workforce ready" for the growing tech and industrial sectors in North Georgia.
• School Security Grants: $50M in one-time funds for safety upgrades.
  • Who Applies: CCSD and local law enforcement partners.
  • Local Relevance: Funds physical security enhancements (cameras, hardened entries) for our rapidly expanding school campuses.

4. Economic Development & Housing

• Rural Workforce Housing & Site Development: $48M total for the OneGeorgia Authority.
  • Who Applies: Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) and local Development Authorities.
  • Local Relevance: While Cherokee is increasingly suburban, its northern reaches qualify for "Rural" designations in certain state programs, helping to attract "shovel-ready" industrial sites and affordable housing for the local workforce.
• Regional Commission Funding: $902k increase to help Regional Commissions (like the Atlanta Regional Commission, which includes Cherokee) assist with coordinated planning.

5. Public Safety & Judicial Pressure

• Accountability Courts: $512k increase to serve more individuals.
  • Who Applies: Cherokee County Superior Court.
  • Local Relevance: Helps manage the judicial backlog by providing alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders, reducing the long-term cost of the county jail.

Next Steps for CCRP: We should focus our advocacy on ensuring Cherokee's "fair share" of the $250M LRA and $60M GTIB funds. These are the most immediate levers for improving the daily quality of life for our residents and the business environment for our real estate and development sectors.

STOP SURVIVING THE CONVERSATION. START LEADING IT.

Most volunteers want to help, but they hesitate because they fear the "hard question." They worry about being caught off guard by a neighbor’s skepticism or getting lost in the weeds of national headlines.

The County Voter Primer is your shield and your map. This isn't just a collection of facts; it is a tactical manual designed to simplify complex county issues and give you the confidence to own the doorstep. From property tax breakdowns to the "Local Bridge" technique for diffusing controversy, this guide ensures that you are always the most prepared person in the room.

Inside this Primer, you will discover:

• The 5-Minute Mastery: A streamlined breakdown of the county issues that actually move the needle in 2026.

• Tactical Pivots: Exact scripts to move the conversation away from national noise and back to local solutions.

• The Utility Toolkit: A "one-glance" reference for every critical deadline and registration link.

• The Influence Framework: Why one vote at the courthouse is 2,000x more powerful than one vote at the White House.

"The first time I knocked on a door, I was terrified. After reading this Primer, I didn't just feel like a volunteer—I felt like an expert. This is the single most important tool we give our team." — Sarah J., Precinct Captain

"Your neighbors aren't looking for a politician. They are looking for a leader who knows the facts. Be that leader."

Design Implementation Tips

• Visual Hierarchy: Use bold, high-contrast fonts for the "STOP SURVIVING" headline to grab immediate attention.

• The Trust Bar: At the bottom, include a small "Published by [County Party Name] Executive Board" stamp to reinforce that this is an official, vetted document.

• QR Code Placement: Leave a 1-inch square space at the bottom right for a QR code that links directly to your "Volunteer Sign-Up" page, turning the physical book back into a digital lead.

BUY YOU COPY HERE $17.00ea

In a jungle primary, your vote matters more than ever—because the rules are different, and the stakes are higher.

Unlike traditional elections where each party picks their own candidate first, a jungle primary puts every candidate from every party on one big ballot, and every voter gets one chance to make their voice heard. That means your vote could be the one that decides which two candidates move on—or who wins outright.

Whether you’re Democrat, Republican, Independent, or undecided, you don’t have to wait for your party’s turn—you vote when it counts most.

In a jungle primary, every vote shapes the future, so sitting it out could mean letting someone else choose your leaders for you.

What is a “Jungle Primary”?

A jungle primary is a type of election where everyone runs on the same ballot, no matter what political party they belong to.

Think of it like a big race where Democrats, Republicans, Independents—everyone runs together.

Step-by-Step: How It Works in Georgia

✅ Step 1: All Candidates Are on One Ballot

• Instead of separate ballots for each political party, all candidates appear on one ballot.

• Voters choose any candidate, no matter their party.

Example: You might see a Democrat, two Republicans, a Libertarian, and an Independent all listed together.

Step 2: Everyone Gets to Vote

• All voters can vote, no matter their party registration.

• You just pick your favorite candidate, regardless of political party.

Step 3: Win It All – If You Get Over 50%

• If one candidate gets more than 50% of the vote, they win right away.

• No more elections needed.

⚔️ Step 4: Runoff If No One Gets 50%

• If no one gets over 50%, the top two vote-getters go to a runoff election.

• This means there will be a second election with just those two.

Even if both top candidates are from the same party, they can still face off in the runoff.

Why Does Georgia Use It?

• Georgia uses the jungle primary system only for special elections, like when a seat becomes open suddenly (for example, someone resigns or passes away).

• It helps fill the seat quickly without separate party primaries.

Example:

Let’s say there’s a special election for State Senate. Here are the candidates:

• Maria (Republican)

• James (Democrat)

• Lisa (Republican)

• Karen (Independent)

Everyone votes. No one gets over 50%.
Maria (40%) and James (30%) got the most votes.
They go to a runoff, and voters pick between those two in the final election.

Recapping the June 17 Board of Commissioners Meeting (So You Don’t Have To Sit Through 3 Hours of Government)

You know what screams “wild summer night”? If you said fireworks, beer, and burgers, you're halfway right. The rest of us were watching the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners in a marathon June 17 meeting that was surprisingly full of... well, fireworks—but the legislative kind.

In just under three hours, your local officials tackled everything from wildlife land preservation to golf cart rebellions, horse-related fireworks trauma, gas station zoning wars, and even a pitch for an ice skating rink.

So pour a tall glass of whatever makes local politics more digestible, and let’s get into the seven most important takeaways from the meeting.

️1. Saving Pine Log: Green Space or Bust

Topic: $2M Commitment Toward Pine Log Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Purchase
Vote: Approved Unanimously ✅

For nearly three years, the 14,000-acre Pine Log WMA has been on life support. The state couldn’t close the deal, the owners wanted to develop, and the vibe was full “RIP to green space.”

But now? Hope has galloped in, possibly on horseback.

• Bartow County committed $5 million

• Cherokee County? Committed up to $2 million, contingent on a solid Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA)

Why it matters:
Pine Log WMA is a massive outdoor playground—used by hikers, hunters, and nature lovers—and 2,500 acres of it sits in Cherokee County. Commissioners called it a "regional resource" and said the quiet part out loud: "Once it's gone, it's gone."

“I think $2 million is a good investment in 50 more years of green space.” —Commissioner Carter

Mic drop .

2. Millage Rate Gets a Flexible Bump

Topic: Advertising 2025 Property Tax Rate
Decision: 5.307 mills will be advertised

This is basically the “we’re not raising taxes…yet” maneuver. The Commission approved advertising a slightly higher tentative millage rate of 5.307, up from 5.153.

But here's the catch:

• This rate gives them flexibility to fund public safety and other services

• Homeowners with homestead exemption won’t feel the full pinch

• The actual adopted rate could be lower

TL;DR:
They're hedging their tax bets and leaving room to adjust. Fiscal chess, not checkers.

3. Golf Carts Get Legal in Lovingood Landing

Topic: Motorized Cart District Approval
Result: Passed Unanimously ✅

You’d think people would rise up over speed bumps or HOA dues. But in Lovingood Landing, residents packed the room for a much nobler cause: golf cart freedom.

• 51 out of 53 homes supported the proposal

• 10 people signed up to speak in favor

• Emotional testimony was given (yes, seriously)

“We’re a family. These carts bring us together.” —Resident Debbie Gifford, while nearly crying

Honestly? It was kind of beautiful.

️ 4. Road Retirement: Morris Road Bows Out

Topic: Partial Abandonment of Morris Road
Result: Approved ✅

A dusty stretch of Morris Road—mostly weeds, barely used—will now be deeded to two homeowners. But not before some classic public comment confusion over whether other landowners would lose access.

Spoiler alert: They won’t.

The county clarified:

• Only the green and yellow shaded no-man’s land was being abandoned

• Bill Smith Drive remains untouched and accessible

• Legal access stays intact

And yes, someone did refer to it as "chicken scratch" on the map. Democracy in action.

5. Fireworks vs. Horses: Neigh Means Neigh

Topic: Ban on Fireworks Within 200 Yards of Equine Facilities
Result: Unanimous Approval ✅ (Effective July 1, 2025)

This was the most impassioned portion of the night, with several equestrian lovers sharing traumatic stories of scared, injured, and even dead horses due to amateur fireworks.

Here’s the scoop:

• New law allows counties to ban fireworks near horses

• Cherokee County adopted the 200-yard buffer rule

• Applies to barns, paddocks, and even pastures

• Violators could face fines (if caught)

Horse owners also offered:

• Suggestion to require signage at fireworks retailers

• Plans to spread awareness with signs like "Horses Nearby – Skip the Boom"

“A single bottle rocket could ignite 1,000 bales of hay.” —Resident Danielle Cook
“This is like firing a gun in the air and pretending the bullet doesn’t land.” —Jonathan Browning

Consider the motion... carried.

⛽ 6. Gas Stations & Car Washes Get Zoned

Topic: New Zoning Rules for Car Washes & Gas Stations
Result: Approved ✅

If you’ve noticed gas stations and car washes popping up like mushrooms in a cow pasture, you’re not alone.

Commissioners voted to:

• Require a special use permit in General Commercial zones

• Create official definitions for:

  • Car Wash (automatic or self-service)

  • Hand-Wash Car Services (excluded from new rules)

  • Gasoline Stations (including marine and truck stops)

Also, all those air pumps, vending machines, ice boxes, etc.?

• Now considered "ancillary equipment"

• Must be approved and in neutral/dark colors (no more neon eyesores)

One commissioner called it “gas pump gatekeeping.” OK, no they didn’t—but we’re calling it that.

7. Hotel/Motel Tax Increased to 8%

Topic: Local Tourism Tax Bump
Result: Approved ✅

Good news for tourism programs. Bad news for out-of-towners trying to save $4 on a Fairfield Inn.

The Commission voted to raise the tax from 6% to 8%, the state maximum. That puts Cherokee in line with 11 other nearby counties and cities.

Revenue will fund:

• Destination Cherokee marketing (via the Chamber of Commerce)

• History Cherokee and Woodstock Arts

• Parks and recreation

• Economic development

• Conference center support

No impact to locals unless you’re doing a “staycation at the Holiday Inn Express.”

“Let our visitors fund our fun.” —Vail Blackmon, Chamber of Commerce

BONUS: The Ice Rink Pitch

Topic: Public Comment Proposal
Decision: No action taken (yet)

A community member made a passionate case for building an ice skating facility in Cherokee County:

• Demand for ice time is rising

• Nearby rinks are closing

• Atlanta might be getting another NHL team

• Revenue potential from youth hockey, figure skating, adult leagues

It wasn’t an official agenda item, but the Commissioners nodded like, “Noted, citizen.”

Watch this space.

Final Thoughts

From horse-protection laws to golf cart revolutions, this meeting wasn’t your typical snoozefest. Cherokee County is clearly growing—fast—and the Board of Commissioners is walking the tightrope between preserving rural character and managing suburban sprawl.

Whether you're here for the open space, the horse trails, or the politics (we see you), 1 thing is clear:

Cherokee County ain’t boring anymore.

Want to See the Full Meeting?

Add a link here:
➡️ Watch the full June 17, 2025 Cherokee BOC meeting replay

Coming Next:

• Who gets to build the next liquor store? A lottery is happening July 15.

• Will your neighborhood soon be a golf cart district too?

• Does an 8% hotel tax mean better concerts? (Asking for a friend.)

Stay tuned. Brought to you by LivingInWoodstockGA.com

Something’s Happening in North Georgia…

You know the political ground is shifting when Democrats fill a church in Cherokee County on a Thursday night like it’s a Beyoncé concert. This deep-red Georgia stronghold—where Republicans have long held sway like barbecue sauce on ribs—is suddenly catching blue fever. So, what gives? Is Cherokee County, of all places, really going Democrat?

Let’s unpack what went down, why it matters, and how this county might just be a 2026 political bellwether worth watching (with popcorn in hand ).

Is Cherokee County Turning Blue?

Cherokee County is showing early signs of Democratic growth, especially in the southern part, but flipping the county in 2026 would be a major political upset. It’s more likely to be competitive—not fully blue—if current trends continue.

Stick Around—There's More at Stake Than Just One County

You’re about to learn:

• Why a Democratic town hall in Cherokee County raised eyebrows

• Who’s running (and not running) in 2026, and how that affects the local political chessboard

• Why Republican reps crashed a Dem event

• And what a small-business-owning attorney named Debra Shigley might mean for Georgia’s future

Let’s head down this political rabbit hole ️ .

️ A Town Hall With a Plot Twist

Cherokee County Democrats hosted a packed town hall at Allen Temple AME Church in Woodstock on May 1st. That alone is newsworthy. Cherokee has been painted red longer than a MAGA hat in the Georgia sun. But hundreds of attendees—including state lawmakers and concerned citizens—showed up.

Even more interesting? Two Republican state reps, Barry Byrd and Jordan Ridley, were also in the house. They weren't heckling or handing out flyers for gun raffles—they said they showed up so no one thought they were “hiding.” That’s the political version of “I’m not mad, I’m just here for the drama.”

The big message from Democrats that night? They want more candidates on local ballots in 2026. Their eyes are on flipping seats, energizing southern Cherokee voters, and turning whispers of blue into a roar.

Why Cherokee County Matters More Than You Think

Cherokee County isn’t just a suburb. It’s a bellwether-in-the-making. Here’s why:

• Fast-growing population: Migration from Atlanta is bringing in a younger, more diverse crowd.

• Southern Cherokee (near Woodstock and Holly Springs) is shifting. Voting patterns there are starting to lean purple.

• Statewide consequences: Georgia is already a battleground. Shifting counties like Cherokee could tip close races in the Senate or Governor's mansion.

In 2020, Joe Biden didn't win Cherokee—but he did better than expected in the southern portion. If Democrats can build momentum there, it could ripple outward, especially as Republicans face internal divisions and Trump-loyalist fatigue.

Major Political Players: Who’s In, Who’s Out

Let’s catch you up on the 2026 election landscape, because it’s all connected:

Candidate	Race	Party	Key Info
Jason Esteves	Governor	Democrat	State Senator from Atlanta. Announced 2026 run. Wants to energize urban & suburban Dems.
Brian Kemp	Senate	Republican	Not running against Ossoff in 2026. Big shocker.
Jon Ossoff	Senate (Incumbent)	Democrat	Safe for now, but a GOP challenger is TBD.
Debra Shigley	State Senate (Special Election)	Democrat	Attorney & business owner. Could flip a Republican-held seat.
Brandon Beach	Former State Senator	Republican	Vacating his seat for a Trump-picked federal position.

Governor Kemp stepping back from the Senate race might leave the door open for a Trump-aligned candidate, deepening Republican divides. Meanwhile, Esteves is aiming for the top spot in Georgia—and strong support in shifting counties like Cherokee could be critical.

️ The Debra Shigley Factor: A Test Case

Enter Debra Shigley, the kind of candidate that makes local GOP strategists double-check polling models. She’s:

• A Democratic attorney and small business owner

• Running for the State Senate seat being vacated by Brandon Beach

• Likely to face multiple Republican contenders in a special election

Here’s the twist: This race could serve as the canary in the coal mine. If Shigley performs well or pulls off a win, it’ll signal that Democrats have real traction in places previously seen as unflippable.

Even a close loss would put Republicans on notice.

Why the GOP Is Watching Their Rearview Mirror

It’s not just that a few Democrats are showing up in Cherokee—it’s that they’re showing up with strategy. They’re organizing, fundraising, and recruiting like they think they can win. That’s new.

Meanwhile, some Republican strongholds are dealing with identity crises, stuck between traditional conservatives and the more extreme MAGA crowd. That’s a recipe for fractured primaries and general-election vulnerabilities.

Even Republican Reps Barry Byrd and Jordan Ridley attending a Democratic event shows how high the political tension is. They know Cherokee isn’t as locked down as it used to be.

Bottom Line: Not Blue Yet, But the Map’s Changing

Let’s keep it real: Cherokee County flipping in 2026 is a long shot. But it’s not about turning the whole county blue—it’s about making it competitive.

If Democrats can shrink the margins, win local races, and keep the pressure on in places like Woodstock and Holly Springs, they’ll influence statewide races even if they don’t take the county outright.

So, is Cherokee County turning blue?

Not quite. But it’s no longer solid red—and in politics, momentum is everything. 

#CherokeeCounty #GeorgiaPolitics #2026Elections #TurningBlue #BrianKemp #GeorgiaDemocrats #WoodstockGA #NorthernGeorgia #SpecialElection

I M M I G R A T I O N

-99.995% DECREASE IN CATCH-AND-RELEASE: Released just 9

illegal aliens into the US between January 20, 2025 and April 1,

2025, a 99.995% decrease from the184,241 released by Biden in the

same period last year.

20,000 ILLEGALS ARRESTED IN ONE MONTH: Arrested over

20,000 illegal immigrants in a single month – a 627% increase in

monthly arrests compared to Biden.

5,000 SELF-DEPORTS: Pushed over 5,000 illegal migrants to self-

deport using the CBP One app.

5,000 REUNITED CHILDREN: Reunited nearly 5,000

unaccompanied children with a safe relative or guardian after more

than 300,000 children went missing under Biden.

-99% CROSSINGS: Just 194 US-bound migrants crossed the

Darien Gap in March, down more than 99% from the 37,000 who

crossed in March of last year.

T H E  E C O N O M Y

$8 TRILLION IN INVESTMENTS: President Trump has secured over

$8 trillion in investment, with the projects expected to create more

than 450,000 jobs.

$5 BILLION IN REVENUE: Unveiled the new “Gold Card” program,

which has already attracted a 250,000-

person waitlist and generated $5 billion in revenue in a single day.

459,000 JOBS: The US economy added a whopping 459,000 full-

time jobs in March, and exceeded economists’ total job creation

estimates by nearly100,000.

-6.3% GAS PRICES: Gas prices fell by a whopping 6.3% in March,

with energy prices dropping 2.4%.

-0.4% WHOLESALE PRICES: Wholesale prices fell 0.4% month-

over-month in the March – the largest drop since October 2023.

-56% WHOLESALE EGGS: Wholesale egg prices are down over

56% from their peak.

$11,000 SAVED: Deregulatory actions will save nearly $11,000 per

family off our over the next several years.

-$12/BARREL: Crude oil prices have fallen by roughly $12/barrel,

compared to an $8/barrel increase under Obama and an$11/barrel

increase under Biden.

130 COUNTRIES: Since Liberation Day, at least 130 countries

have begun engaging in negotiations with the United States, with

the Trump administration already receiving at least 18 written trade

deal proposals.

A M E R I C A  I S  B A C K

139 EXECUTIVE ORDERS: Signed 139 executive orders, the most

of any president in United States history.

26 RELEASED HOSTAGES: Secured the release of at least 26

American hostages, including Pennsylvania school teacher Marc

Fogel, ballerina Ksenia Karelina, and missionary Robert Vieira.

74 TERRORISTS KILLED: Approved strikes that have killed over 74

terrorists seeking toattack the US homeland, including the head of

ISIS in Iraq and Syria.

1,009 QUESTIONS: Took 1,009 questions in his first month, 7-times

more than Biden.

20X QUESTIONS: Answered 20-times more press questions in his

first three Cabinet meetings than Biden did at Cabinet meetings

during his entire four years in office.

11 HEADS OF STATE: Hosted 11 heads of state at the White House

in the first 100 days, compared with 1 for Biden and 5 for Obama.

$1 BILLION: Secured nearly $1 billion in pro bono legal services

for causes such as assisting veterans, combatting antisemitism, and

ensuring fairness in the justice system.

80.7 MILLION VIEWERS: Set an Inauguration viewership record

with 80.7 million viewers.

2,200 OFFERS: Broke modern presidential staffing records, making

over 2,200 offers, all accepted, to exceptionally qualified candidates.

Discover why some of the world’s most outspoken scientists say the climate story you’ve heard is only half the truth—then decide for yourself.

About the Film

Directed by British documentary‑maker Martin Durkin, Climate: The Movie (The Cold Truth) features Nobel laureate Dr. John Clauser alongside renowned physicists Richard Lindzen, Steve Koonin, and William Happer. Together they challenge the idea of an iron‑clad “consensus,” arguing that climate science—and climate policy—deserve a second look.(IMDb)

The documentary has already sparked intense debate online for questioning mainstream narratives, amassing millions of views on YouTube and social media since its March 2024 release.(Science Feedback)

Trailer: Watch a two‑minute sneak peek here.
https://fakta360.no/movies/ClimateTheMovieIntro.mp4

Event Details

Date	Friday, May 2, 2025
Time	Doors open 5:30 PM • Film 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Venue	CCRP HQ9425 Hwy 92, Suite 112Woodstock, GA 30188 (Commons Shopping Center, next to Goodwill)
Admission	FREE for CCRP members • $5 for non‑members (pay at door)
Refreshments	Drinks, pizza, and popcorn available for purchase

Why You Should Attend

1. Hear the “cold truth.” Get informed by scientists who signed the Clintel World Climate Declaration, a coalition asserting “there is no climate emergency.”

2. Ask hard questions. Stick around after the credits to chat with fellow attendees—no echo chambers here.

3. Support local engagement. Every seat filled strengthens our community’s culture of open debate.

4. Pizza + popcorn. Because facts are easier to digest with pepperoni and a fizzy drink.

Call to Action – Reserve Your Seat Now

Space is limited. Pre‑register here → https://ccrp.wildapricot.org/event-6156745
Bring friends, family, and neighbors who care about energy costs, environmental policy, and the future of American prosperity.

“We need to wake up our neighbors. We need to wake up America.”

️ Getting There & Parking Tips

• Enter the Commons Shopping Center via Hwy 92; look for the Goodwill storefront—CCRP HQ is two doors to the right.

• Plenty of free, well‑lit parking immediately in front of the venue.

• Arrive early (5:30 PM) to grab refreshments and the best seats.

Final Thought

Whether you leave convinced, skeptical, or somewhere in between, Climate: The Movie – The Cold Truth promises to sharpen your critical thinking about one of the most consequential debates of our time. See you tonight in Woodstock!