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Atlanta Marks Major Housing Milestone with Opening of The Beacon at Cooper Street

Atlanta celebrates opening of The Beacon at Cooper Street, marking 500 rapid housing units delivered to address homelessness through innovative modular construction and community partnerships.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 17, 2026

Atlanta leaders, community members, and housing advocates gathered this week in the Mechanicsville neighborhood to celebrate a major milestone in the city’s fight against homelessness: the ribbon cutting of The Beacon at Cooper Street, the final development needed to reach the city’s goal of 500 rapid housing units.

Mayor Andre Dickens called the moment “promises made and promises kept,” emphasizing that the project represents more than just construction.

“This work is not just about numbers,” Dickens said. “It represents 500 opportunities, 500 lives, and 500 chances at stability and dignity.”

Mayor Andre Dickens The Beacon @ Coopers Street – Photo by Milton Kirby

The Beacon at Cooper Street includes two multi-story buildings with 100 modular studio units, each designed to provide safe, supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. The development also includes on-site offices for case management, mental health services, and other support systems aimed at helping residents rebuild their lives.

A Citywide Effort

The project is part of Atlanta’s broader Rapid Housing Initiative, a strategy launched by the Dickens administration to address homelessness by quickly converting underutilized city-owned land into permanent supportive housing.

From its earliest days, the initiative relied on partnerships across government, nonprofit organizations, developers, and the private sector.

“This is what it looks like when we listen, when we engage, and when we build together,” Dickens said during the ceremony.

City officials highlighted earlier developments in the initiative, including The Melody, a container-based housing community that gained international recognition, and Waterworks Village, a modular apartment complex delivered in record time.

Community Support in Mechanicsville

Leaders also praised the Mechanicsville community for embracing the project, noting that neighborhood support played a key role in its success.

“There’s a lot of ‘not in my backyard’ across the country,” Dickens said. “But this community said yes—and that made all the difference.”

District 4 Councilmember Jason Dozier described the development as both personal and transformative, pointing to the broader impact stable housing can have on families and neighborhoods.

“Housing creates the foundation for safety, health, and economic stability,” Dozier said.

More Than Housing

Officials emphasized that The Beacon is not just a housing project, but part of a larger ecosystem of care.

Thirty units are dedicated to individuals who need ongoing medical and mental health support through partnerships with local healthcare providers. The development also includes a “housing navigator” program to help individuals transition from hospitals and shelters into stable living environments.

The Beacon @ Coopers Street – Photo by Milton Kirby

Research cited during the event shows that rapid housing programs are effective, with 70 to 90 percent of participants remaining housed after one year.

Looking Ahead

While the ribbon cutting marked a significant achievement, leaders were clear that the work is far from finished.

Speakers emphasized that while the milestone is significant, much work remains to address homelessness across the city.

With the 500-unit goal now achieved, city officials signaled plans to expand the model and continue building housing solutions across Atlanta and the broader region.

As Dickens put it, “Love ought to look like something—and today, you can see what that looks like.”

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In Rome, A Close Race Reveals a District in Tension Between Change and Tradition

By Milton Kirby | Rome, GA | April 8, 2026

The room was loud. The streets were quiet. And somewhere between the two, the truth of this election began to take shape.

When The Truth Seekers Journal arrived just after 6:00 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott Rome Riverwalk, the Harris campaign’s election night gathering was already underway. Inside, the mood was upbeat, almost celebratory. Supporters filled the space. Staff moved with purpose. Cameras from regional and national outlets lined the room.

It did not feel like a campaign bracing for defeat.

It felt like one expecting to compete.

That sense of optimism extended beyond the crowd. Harris’ campaign communications manager, a commuter from Indiana balancing the demands of political work with planning a wedding and searching for a home, spoke candidly about the moment. It was a reminder that behind every campaign are real people — building lives while trying to shape the direction of a district.

But step outside, and the tone shifted.

A short walk toward Broad Street revealed a different kind of energy. Parking spaces were filled, but foot traffic was sparse. The usual buzz of a downtown evening felt muted. Conversations were harder to find and when they did come, they carried a different weight.

One voter visiting from Woodstock, GA did not hesitate when asked about the direction of the country.

“Not good,” he said plainly.

Pressed further, he pointed to rising costs and what he described as a lack of moral leadership. His frustration echoed a familiar theme in conservative-leaning areas where economic pressure and cultural concerns often intersect.

Outside a small convenience store, another conversation revealed a different kind of distance from the political moment. Language barriers limited engagement, but the takeaway was just as telling: uncertainty. When asked about the direction of the country or even basic economic markers like gas prices, responses were hesitant, fragmented — a reminder that not all voters experience politics in the same way, or with the same level of access.

At a nearby restaurant, the conversations grew more layered — and more personal.

Patrons spoke openly about national issues, including U.S. involvement overseas, frustration with political leadership, and the feeling that neither party fully addressed their concerns. One voter described deep concern about American foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, while still expressing a measure of trust in Democratic candidate Shawn Harris over his opponent.

Others reflected on community identity – describing Rome as a place where faith, family, and familiarity still shape daily life. Politics, in these conversations, was not abstract. It was tied to values, relationships, and lived experience.

Photo by Milton Kirby – Sidewalk view of Broad Street

By the time the race was called, the numbers brought clarity, but not simplicity.

According to Georgia Secretary of State official election results, Republican candidate Clay Fuller secured victory with 72,304 votes, while Democrat Shawn Harris received 57,030. The margin was decisive, but the context told a deeper story. In a district previously carried by Donald Trump by nearly 37 points, the narrower gap signaled movement — even in defeat.

Back inside the Marriott, that perspective defined the night.

Moments after networks called the race, Harris entered the room to sustained applause. Supporters rose to their feet. There was no visible deflation — only determination.

“We didn’t win here tonight,” Harris told the crowd. “But we did.”

He pointed to the nearly $2 million spent by Republicans and national attention brought into the race, arguing that such investment in a traditionally “ruby red” district reflected a changing political landscape.

“The Republican Party should never have to spend that kind of money here,” he said. “That tells you things are changing in northwest Georgia.”

Harris emphasized that the campaign’s work would continue immediately, framing the result not as an endpoint, but as momentum heading into November.

“This is not about me,” he added. “This is about the people here – working families trying to make ends meet.”

He also struck a conciliatory tone toward his opponent, acknowledging the result as fair and signaling a willingness to move forward without dispute.

The night, in many ways, became a study in contrast.

Inside: energy, belief, and a narrative of progress.
Outside: skepticism, frustration, and quieter conviction.

Between them sat the reality of Rome in a district where political identity is not fixed, but layered. Where some voters feel deeply engaged, others feel disconnected, and many are navigating both at once.

The result belonged to Clay Fuller.

But the story of the night — and perhaps of the district — remains unfinished.

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Metro Leaders Urge Veto of HB 369, Call Bill “Targeted” and “Discriminatory”

Metro Atlanta leaders urge Governor Kemp to veto HB 369, warning the bill targets five counties, undermines voter clarity, and threatens local control.

Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 5, 2026

A coalition of metro Atlanta leaders gathered at the Georgia State Capitol on March 31 to deliver a unified message: veto House Bill 369.

Led by DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, officials from DeKalb, Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, and Clayton counties stood alongside members of the Georgia House Democratic Caucus to oppose the Senate substitute version of the legislation. Their appeal was directed squarely at Governor Brian Kemp.

At issue is a provision that would make local elections nonpartisan—but only in five of Georgia’s 159 counties.

A Bill Reshaped Late in the Process

State Representative Carla Drenner opened the press conference by raising concerns about how the bill evolved. She noted that HB 369 “began as something entirely different” before being significantly altered through a Senate amendment that did not receive full debate in the House.

“That matters,” Drenner said, emphasizing that legislative process ensures transparency and public trust.

Leaders argued that such a late-stage transformation raises questions about fairness, particularly given the bill’s targeted scope.

What HB 369 Would Do

Under the proposed substitute, elections for key local offices—including commissioners, district attorneys, and tax officials—would become nonpartisan in Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties.

Those counties represent nearly four million residents and a significant share of Georgia’s economic activity.

Cochran-Johnson and other leaders emphasized that these same counties are largely led by Democratic and African American officials—an overlap they say cannot be ignored.

“If fairness and election integrity are truly the goals,” Cochran-Johnson asked, “why does this bill apply to only five counties out of 159?”

Concerns Over Voter Impact

Speakers repeatedly stressed that removing party affiliation from ballots could make it harder for voters to make informed decisions.

“It matters who represents you,” Cochran-Johnson said. “Party affiliation is often a precursor to values and ideology.”

Clayton County Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson Henry echoed that concern, warning the bill would create “two different election systems” within the same state—one for most counties and another for just five.

“That is not fairness,” she said. “That is discrimination.”

A Broader Question of Local Control

Beyond voter clarity, leaders framed the issue as one of local governance.

Henry County Chairwoman Carlotta Harrell, whose county would not be directly affected, said the bill sets a troubling precedent.

“If the state can redefine election structures in one set of counties today,” she said, “it opens the door for similar interventions across the state in the future.”

That sentiment was echoed across the podium: decisions about local elections, they argued, should originate within local communities not be imposed by the state.

A United Regional Front

The event brought together an unusually broad coalition of elected officials across metro Atlanta, signaling the regional weight behind the opposition.

Gwinnett County Representative Dr. Jasmine Clark described the bill as a “targeted” effort to reshape political power, while Cobb County Chairwoman Lisa Cupid called for collaboration rather than division.

Even counties not directly impacted stood in solidarity, underscoring concerns that the legislation could reshape governance statewide.

The Call to Action

Cochran-Johnson closed her remarks with a direct appeal to the governor.

“If our counties, our state, and our nation are to remain beacons of democracy,” she said, “we must reject laws like HB 369 that target, divide, and discriminate under the guise of good policy.”

She added a final warning: “Today, both the people and the world are watching Georgia. Let us not fall on the wrong side of history. Democracy has a price.”

As of this writing, Governor Kemp has not publicly indicated whether he will sign or veto the bill.

Metro leaders say they will continue to monitor its progress—and remain prepared to push back.

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New Leadership on the Menu: Harris Campaign Brings Focus to Hiram Voters

Shawn Harris campaigns in Hiram with Senator Warnock, highlighting small business struggles and leadership contrast in pivotal Georgia 14th District race against Clay Fuller.

Milton Kirby | Hiram, GA | April 3, 2026

With Election Day approaching, Shawn Harris is making his final case directly to voters, meeting them where it matters most: in small businesses, over conversations about cost, stability, and leadership.

A brief “mini-tour” through Paulding County offered a clear window into a high-stakes special election that could reshape Georgia’s 14th Congressional District – an area once considered politically predictable, now firmly in the national spotlight.

Joined by Raphael Warnock, Harris stopped at two Hiram businesses, using the visits to listen, connect, and reinforce a campaign built around a simple message: Leadership Matters.

“Kitchen Table” Concerns at Tips & Clippers

The day began at Tips & Clippers Nails and Barber Shop, where owners Deon and LaToya Edwards shared the realities of running a small business in today’s economy.

Their shop, now two years old, has grown steadily, but not without strain. Supply costs, they said, have nearly doubled in some cases. Rather than pass those increases along, they’ve absorbed much of the impact themselves.

“I think it’s time for a change, and I believe Shawn Harris will be the change that we need,” said LaToya Edwards, who also serves with the Hiram Police Department.

Her husband, Deon, an Air Force veteran said “Harris’s military background stood out, but it was his independence that resonated most.”

“I like independent thought,” he said.

Moments like these grounded in everyday concerns, continue to shape the tone of the race more than national talking points.

A Packed House at The Philly Spot

Later, at The Philly Steak Spot, the energy shifted. A capacity crowd filled the small restaurant, eager to see Harris and hear from Warnock.

Warnock brought visibility and momentum, mixing humor with urgency as he encouraged turnout and highlighted concerns about voting access.

“Let’s send a great man, a veteran, and a farmer to Congress,” he told the crowd.

Still, the focus remained on Harris, his message, his background, and what he represents in this moment.

A District in Transition

Photo by Milton Kirby – Shawn Harris & Senator Raphael Warnock

The stakes in this race are shaped by the departure of Marjorie Taylor Greene, who represented the district since 2020 and brought national attention to northwest Georgia.

Greene announced in November 2025 that she would resign, setting her final day in office as January 5, 2026. Her decision followed a highly publicized political rift within Republican circles, along with mounting pressure inside her party and concerns about a potentially difficult primary, according to national reports.

The open seat quickly drew national interest. In February, Donald Trump endorsed Republican candidate Clay Fuller, a district attorney whose campaign emphasizes law enforcement experience and party unity.

That endorsement, however, did not produce a majority winner in the initial election. Fuller advanced from a crowded 14-candidate field but fell short of the 50 percent threshold required to avoid a runoff.

He has since expressed confidence that Republican voters will consolidate behind him in the final vote.

Harris on Leadership: Local and Global

For Harris, the campaign is both forward-looking and personal. Having previously faced Greene, this race represents a new opportunity to redefine leadership in the district.

Between handshakes and conversations, he addressed not only local concerns but global ones, including U.S. involvement in Iran.

“We can win this war militarily,” Harris said. “However, we can lose this war politically.”

Drawing on his experience with Central Command, he argued that Americans deserve clearer communication especially as global decisions impact everyday costs like fuel and agriculture.

But again and again, his message returned to the same place: leadership, accountability, and trust.

The Choice Before Voters

The race now comes down to a clear contrast.

Harris presents himself as a steady, service-driven leader shaped by decades in uniform focused on discipline, transparency, and what supporters describe as independent judgment.

Fuller, backed by Trump, represents a continuation of conservative leadership in the district, with an emphasis on law enforcement, prosecution, and party alignment.

For voters like Katrina Rebels of Powder Springs, the stakes are immediate.

“This election is so very important,” she said. “I will be out there voting – first one in line as usual.”

Where This Race Will Be Decided

As early voting concludes and Election Day approaches, Georgia’s 14th District stands at a crossroads.

Once considered a quiet stronghold, it is now a proving ground where national attention meets local reality.

And while endorsements and headlines may shape perception, the outcome will likely be decided in places like Hiram – inside barbershops, restaurants, and small businesses, where voters are weighing not just politics, but the kind of leadership they want next.

Related articles

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Hegseth Ousts Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth removed Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, accelerating a sweeping leadership shake‑up across senior military ranks in the Trump administration.

By Jennifer Jacobs, Eleanor Watson, James LaPorta | Washington, DC | April 2, 2026

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George to step down and take immediate retirement, sources familiar with the decision told CBS News.

One of the sources said Hegseth wants someone in the role who will implement President Trump and Hegseth’s vision for the Army.

Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement that George “will be retiring from his position as the 41st Chief of Staff of the Army effective immediately. The Department of War is grateful for General George’s decades of service to our nation. We wish him well in his retirement.”

A senior Defense Department official told CBS News, “We are grateful for his service, but it was time for a leadership change in the Army.”

Two other Army officers were removed from their roles, according to three sources familiar with the matter: Gen. David Hodne, who led the Army’s Transformation and Training Command, and Maj. Gen. William Green, who headed the Army’s Chaplain Corps. The Washington Post was first to report on Hodne and Green’s ouster.

George previously served as the senior military assistant to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin from 2021 to 2022, during the Biden administration, after decades of service. A career infantry officer and West Point graduate, George first served in the first Gulf War and the more recent conflicts of Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Army chief of staff typically serves a four-year term. George was nominated for the position by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the Senate in 2023, meaning he would typically have held the position until 2027.

The current vice chief of staff of the Army, Gen. Christopher LaNeve, who was formerly Hegseth’s military aide, will be acting Army chief of staff. He previously served as the commanding general of the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division from 2022 to 2023.

Parnell said LaNeve is “a battle-tested leader with decades of operational experience and is completely trusted by Secretary Hegseth to carry out the vision of this administration without fault.”

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point posted photos on social media on Thursday of George, saying he “shared experience-driven guidance with cadets preparing to lead” during a visit on March 25.

According to his biography on the Army’s website, George received his commission as an infantry officer from West Point in 1988 and deployed during Operation Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Before serving as Army chief of staff, he was vice chief of staff of the Army from 2022 to 2023.

Hegseth has fired more than a dozen senior military officers, including Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. James Slife and the head of the Defense Intelligence Agency Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse.

The ouster follows Hegseth’s X post lifting the suspension of the aircrew that flew by Kid Rock’s house in Nashville last weekend. After the Army announced the suspension of the aviators involved and an administrative review, Hegseth overruled the Army, writing on his personal X account, “No punishment. No investigation. Carry on, patriots.”

Hegseth’s decision to ask George to exit wasn’t related to the helicopter incident, one of the sources said.

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Henry County Charts Path Forward with Growth, Safety, and Investment at 2026 State of the County

Henry County highlights infrastructure growth, job creation, and public safety gains as Chairwoman Carlotta Harrell outlines a strategic vision during the 2026 State of the County.

By Milton Kirby | Stockbridge, GA | April 3, 2026

More than 400 business leaders, elected officials, and residents gathered Thursday morning as Council for Quality Growth hosted the 2026 State of Henry County address, where Chairwoman Carlotta Harrell outlined a vision grounded in resilience, growth, and strategic planning.

Held at Stockbridge Community Church, the annual event brought together a cross-section of the region’s leadership to hear how Henry County is navigating economic pressures while continuing to expand infrastructure, public safety, and economic opportunity.

“This past year tested communities across the country,” Harrell said. “But Henry County remained strong by maximizing resources, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to move forward.”

Infrastructure and Mobility Investments Accelerate

A central focus of the address was transportation, where Harrell detailed ongoing roadway improvements across key corridors, including Henry and McDonough Parkway, Burg and Dutchtown Roads, and Mill and Rock Quarry Roads. Sidewalk expansions are also underway on Fairview and Flippen Roads.

The county plans to resurface 200 roads between now and next spring through a $43.8 million investment funded in part by SPLOST. Harrell also announced plans to pursue T-SPLOST 2 in November, signaling continued reliance on voter-backed funding for long-term mobility improvements.

Technology is also playing a role. Henry County has begun using connected vehicle systems that synchronize traffic signals with emergency vehicles to improve response times—a move reflecting broader regional innovation trends.

Public Safety Gains and Service Expansion

Public safety improvements showed measurable results in 2025. Harrell reported a 17% increase in DUI and drug-related arrests, alongside declines of up to 30% in key crime categories such as vehicle theft and burglaries.

The county also expanded services through jail renovations, accountability court programs, and telehealth partnerships for non-emergency 911 calls. Henry County Fire Rescue responded to more than 41,000 service calls last year, underscoring growing demand.

Economic Development Drives Job Growth

Economic development remains a cornerstone of Henry County’s strategy. In 2025, the Henry County Development Authority helped attract 920 new jobs and $883 million in capital investment.

Major projects include a $300 million plastics recycling facility by Nexus Circular, a $40 million investment by Brava Roofing Tiles, and a $115 million cold storage facility by United States Cold Storage.

According to federal labor data, Henry County led Georgia’s largest counties in year-over-year employment growth. Workforce partnerships with local schools and Southern Crescent Technical College are helping align training with these new opportunities.

Healthcare expansion is also underway. Piedmont Henry Hospital is adding 100 beds and three new operating rooms, signaling continued population growth and healthcare demand.

Quality of Life Investments Expand Across the County

Harrell highlighted $53 million in park and recreation investments, including new amenities at North Mount Carmel Park, Bud Kelley Park, Butler’s Bridge Park, and Cochran Park.

A major highlight is the nearly completed Henry County Aquatic Center and Outdoor Water Park, expected to open this summer. The county is also expanding senior programs and community services, reflecting a broader focus on livability.

Recognizing Service and Leadership

Several individuals and organizations were honored during the event. Kaiser Permanente and Sam Baker received Henry Hero Awards, while Officer Robert Adams was recognized for lifesaving actions during a tornado response.

Additional honors included awards to Fire Rescue teams from Stations 7 and 16, and Capital Projects Director Lynn Planchon for leadership on major county initiatives.

A Regional Vision for Growth

Harrell closed her address with a focus on planning and sustainability, highlighting the county’s Unified Land Development Initiative and regional mobility strategies.

“Growth without structure is a risk, but growth with strategy is an opportunity,” she said.

Regional leaders echoed that message. Michael E. Paris, CEO of the Council for Quality Growth, praised Henry County’s long-term vision, while Atlanta Regional Commission officials provided updates on water planning and infrastructure coordination.

Sponsors including Truist and Geosam Capital Group also reinforced the importance of public-private collaboration in shaping the county’s future.

As one of eight State of the County events hosted annually by the Council, the Henry County address continues to serve as a key forum connecting business, government, and community stakeholders across metro Atlanta.

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Harrell to Outline Vision for Henry County at Annual State Address

Henry County leaders gather April 2 as Chairwoman Carlotta Harrell delivers State of the County, outlining growth, development priorities, and regional collaboration shaping 2026.

By Milton Kirby | Stockbridge, GA | March 28, 2026

Henry County’s business, civic, and government leaders will gather April 2 for one of the county’s most anticipated annual events the State of Henry County Address, where vision, progress, and future priorities converge.

Hosted by the Council for Quality Growth in partnership with Henry County, the event will take place at Stockbridge Community Church and is expected to draw more than 400 attendees, including elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders.

At the center of the program is Carlotta Harrell, who will deliver her sixth State of Henry County address. Her remarks are expected to highlight key accomplishments from the past year while outlining strategic priorities for 2026.

The annual gathering serves as more than a ceremonial update. It functions as a working intersection between public policy and private investment — a space where infrastructure, economic development, and quality-of-life initiatives are aligned with the needs of a growing county.

“Under Chairwoman Harrell’s forward-thinking leadership, Henry County continues to see transformative projects come to life,” said Michael Paris, emphasizing the county’s ongoing momentum.

That sentiment was echoed by Gerald McDowell, who pointed to the county’s “thoughtful development and strategic planning” as a driver of opportunity for both businesses and residents.

A Broad Coalition of Voices

This year’s program reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of regional development. In addition to Harrell’s address, attendees will hear from leaders across healthcare, finance, infrastructure, and the judicial system.

Featured speakers include:

Mike Alexander, representing the Atlanta Regional Commission and providing an update tied to regional water planning
David Kent of Piedmont Henry Hospital
Fadzai Konteh of Truist
Patrick Brooks of Geosam Capital Group
Holly Veal

Together, these perspectives reflect the multi-sector approach now required to manage growth in metro Atlanta’s outer counties — where population increases, infrastructure demand, and economic expansion are converging at a rapid pace.

A Platform for Policy and Progress

The State of Henry County is part of a broader regional series hosted by the Council for Quality Growth, which convenes similar events across multiple counties and agencies, including MARTA and the Atlanta BeltLine.

These events are designed not only to inform but to influence — creating a feedback loop between policymakers and the business community that helps shape decisions on infrastructure, zoning, transportation, and long-term planning.

For Henry County, that dialogue is increasingly critical. Positioned along key transportation corridors and experiencing steady residential and commercial growth, the county faces both opportunity and pressure: how to expand while maintaining livability.

Looking Ahead

As Chairwoman Harrell steps to the podium, the focus will likely center on balancing that growth ensuring that new development aligns with infrastructure capacity, workforce needs, and community expectations.

For attendees, the event offers more than a speech. It is a snapshot of where Henry County stands today and a roadmap for where it intends to go next.

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From Blueprints to Landmarks: Holder Awarded Four Pillar Tribute for Shaping Atlanta

Fulton County: An Economic, Cultural, and Educational Hub for Georgia

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DeKalb County Shows Unified Vision at Capitol, Elevates Students and Legislative Priorities

DeKalb County leaders united at the Georgia Capitol, advancing transportation, housing, and education priorities while elevating student voices and highlighting a powerful moment of shared leadership.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | March 27, 2026

DeKalb County leaders arrived at the Georgia State Capitol with a clear message: unity, coordination, and results.

At this year’s DeKalb Day at the Capitol, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson addressed lawmakers, community leaders, and more than 500 students, outlining a focused legislative agenda while emphasizing collaboration across all 12 cities.

“We are showing up as one DeKalb,” Cochran-Johnson said, reinforcing a theme that echoed throughout the event.

A Unified County Approach

This year marked the largest DeKalb Day turnout in the county’s history, with elected officials, mayors, commissioners, and state legislators aligned around shared priorities.

From the House and Senate delegations to the Board of Commissioners, leaders emphasized a coordinated strategy entering the legislative session, one designed to strengthen DeKalb’s voice under the Gold Dome.

Carla Drenner highlighted the county’s diversity and strength, noting that DeKalb represents more than 100 nationalities and over 140 languages.

“It takes a village to govern,” Drenner said. “We stand with each other because we are DeKalb strong.”

Transportation, Housing, and Economic Growth

At the top of the county’s agenda: transportation.

Officials pointed to a new transit master plan aimed at improving connectivity and expanding access across the region. Cochran-Johnson emphasized that mobility is central to DeKalb’s future.

Housing affordability also emerged as a critical issue. The county is backing rental registry legislation led in part by Mary Margaret Oliver to track investor-owned properties and improve housing conditions.

Cochran-Johnson noted that more than 50% of residential property sales south of Memorial Drive since 2020 have gone to investors rather than individuals.

Public Safety and Environmental Concerns

Illegal tire dumping—an issue that continues to impact DeKalb neighborhoods—was also front and center.

County leaders called for stronger penalties and highlighted cleanup efforts, including the removal of more than 30,000 tires through a county initiative.

Education and Student Voices Take Center Stage

A defining feature of the day was the presence of more than 500 students from DeKalb County schools, many of whom participated directly in the program.

Norman Sauce III outlined priorities including school funding reform, workforce development, and expanded mental health services.

And then something small—but powerful—happened. As Taliah McPherson walked up to speak, talking about mental health and what students are really dealing with, the CEO didn’t step aside. She stayed. Right there. Holding the microphone steady so the student’s voice could carry across the room. No announcement. No attention drawn to it. Just a quiet act that said: your voice matters enough for me to support it. And in that moment, the whole idea of “leadership” shifted. It wasn’t about position. It was about presence.

The students didn’t waste that moment.

They talked about stress. About pressure. About systems that don’t always work when they need help the most.

One student said it clearly: if leaders care about students, prove it.

Fund the support. Remove the barriers. Act.

McPherson called for greater awareness and access to mental health support for students, emphasizing the need to remove stigma and expand resources.

“Mental health should be something we can talk about openly,” she said.

High school senior Gavin Brown reinforced the urgency, pointing to barriers that prevent students from receiving timely care.

“The time for discussion has passed,” Brown said. “Now is the time for action.”

A Call to Civic Engagement

Throughout the program, leaders emphasized civic participation—especially for young people.

Cochran-Johnson encouraged students to see themselves as future leaders, reminding them that leadership begins with preparation and presence.

Moving Forward as “One DeKalb”

Closing remarks reinforced a shared commitment to collaboration, with leaders pledging continued focus on infrastructure, economic development, and education.

“As elected officials, our greatest strength is in working together,” said Chakira Johnson.

“Our partnerships are strong,” Cochran-Johnson said. “And our future is strong.”

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Bipartisan Bill Aims to Unlock Federal Research Dollars for HBCUs

By Milton Kirby | Washington, D.C. | March 26, 2026

A new bipartisan effort in the U.S. Senate could reshape how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) access federal research funding, addressing long-standing barriers that have limited their participation in major grant programs.

Senators Raphael Warnock and Katie Britt have introduced the HBCU Research Capacity Act, legislation designed to simplify and centralize access to federal grant opportunities for HBCUs.

At the core of the proposal is the creation of a federally coordinated online clearinghouse a single platform where HBCUs can identify, track, and apply for research and development funding opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. The bill would also require the U.S. Department of Education to provide guidance, best practices, and ongoing updates to institutions nationwide.

Addressing Structural Gaps in Research Funding

For decades, federal research dollars have been concentrated among a relatively small group of institutions, leaving many HBCUs despite their academic output and cultural impact at a disadvantage.

“HBCUs are incubators of diverse excellence,” Warnock said, noting that the legislation is intended to “make securing federal dollars… that much easier.”

Britt echoed that sentiment, describing the bill as a “commonsense” solution grounded in firsthand experience with the challenges HBCUs face.

The issue is not new, but the approach is notable. Rather than creating new funding streams, the legislation focuses on access recognizing that many institutions struggle not with eligibility, but with navigating a fragmented and complex federal grant system.

HBCU Leaders Push for Change

To support the bill’s introduction, the senators convened more than 30 HBCU presidents in Washington for a roundtable discussion. Leaders from institutions including Fort Valley State University and Albany State University participated, emphasizing the need for a more transparent and coordinated funding process.

Their message was consistent: opportunity exists, but access remains uneven.

Dr. Harry L. Williams, president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, described the legislation as a “major step” toward expanding the nation’s research ecosystem by fully integrating HBCUs into it.

Similarly, the United Negro College Fund praised the bill while cautioning that broader reforms will still be needed to ensure equitable participation across all HBCUs including those that may never achieve top-tier research classifications but play a critical role in the academic pipeline.

A Broader Strategy for Research Equity

The proposed clearinghouse would be supported by dedicated personnel within the Department of Education and include regular reporting to Congress, along with updates to participating institutions.

The bill builds on earlier efforts led by Warnock, including legislation encouraging pathways for HBCUs to achieve “R1” status the highest classification for research activity in higher education. Notably, Howard University recently achieved that designation, signaling what advocates say is possible with sustained investment and support.

The legislation also aligns with broader federal initiatives, including funding streams established under the CHIPS and Science Act, which included provisions to support Minority Serving Institutions in accessing federal research dollars.

What Comes Next

If passed, the HBCU Research Capacity Act would amend Title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965, formalizing the federal government’s role in coordinating research opportunities for HBCUs.

For institutions that have historically done more with less, the bill represents a potential shift not just in funding, but in how opportunity is structured.

As policymakers and educators continue to debate the future of higher education, one question remains central: how to ensure that talent wherever it is found has a clear path to resources.

This legislation suggests one answer: make the system easier to see, and easier to access.

Runoff Set to Decide Who Replaces Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District

Northwest Georgia voters will decide April 7 between Republican Clay Fuller and Democrat Shawn Harris in a runoff to replace former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.

By Milton Kirby | Rome, GA | March 16, 2026

Voters in northwest Georgia will return to the polls on April 7 to decide who will replace former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene after a crowded special election failed to produce a majority winner.

The race has narrowed to two candidates: Democrat Shawn Harris and Republican Clay Fuller, who finished first and second respectively in the March 10 special election.

Harris led the field with 37.3% of the vote (43,241), while Fuller secured 34.9% (40,388), setting up a runoff after neither candidate crossed the 50% threshold required under Georgia law. The winner will serve the remainder of Greene’s congressional term, which runs through December 31, 2027.

A Seat Opened by Political Fallout

The special election was triggered after Greene resigned earlier this year following a highly public split with Donald Trump.

Greene had once been one of Trump’s most visible allies, frequently appearing at rallies and promoting his claims of election interference. But tensions grew after the two clashed over issues including health care costs, U.S. policy toward Israel’s war in Gaza, and the release of files tied to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

Her departure opened a rare vacancy in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, one of the most reliably Republican districts in the state. Trump carried the district by 37 percentage points in the 2024 presidential election, underscoring the steep challenge Democrats typically face there.

Photo courtesy of Harris campaign – Shawn Harris

Harris Builds an Unusual Coalition

Harris, a Polk County cattle farmer and retired brigadier general, entered the race emphasizing coalition politics in a district dominated by conservative voters.

During a campaign rally in Rome attended by Pete Buttigieg, Harris urged supporters to look beyond party labels.

“The way we’re going to win is simple,” Harris told the crowd. “More excited Democrats knocking on doors, independents flipping our way, and Republicans that the Republican Party has left behind voting for me.”

Harris has framed his campaign as a moderate alternative capable of representing the entire district. He has also placed a strong focus on veterans, noting that roughly 40,000 veterans live in the district.

“This Democrat is a moderate and I will represent everyone in the district,” Harris said.

He has argued that the economy remains the top concern among voters, adding that tensions related to the ongoing conflict with Iran have intensified economic anxieties.

Harris previously ran against Greene in 2024. Although he lost that race, he received more votes than any Democratic candidate in the district in more than a decade.

Fuller Leans on Trump’s Endorsement

Fuller, the district attorney for northwest Georgia’s Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit, has leaned heavily on his endorsement from Trump as he heads into the runoff.

Speaking after the first-round results were announced, Fuller described the outcome as an encouraging sign for Republicans.

“We know that the endorsement from President Trump made a difference in this race, and we’re going to go and win it,” Fuller said. “It’s time that the Republican vote unites and gets a representative to Capitol Hill as soon as possible.”

Fuller serves as the top prosecutor for a four-county judicial circuit in northwest Georgia, where he has tried cases involving murder, rape, and armed robbery, securing life sentences in several jury trials. He has also argued criminal appeals before the Supreme Court of Georgia and the Georgia Court of Appeals.

In addition to his legal career, Fuller is a lieutenant colonel and deputy staff judge advocate in the Air National Guard. In 2024 he deployed to operations centers in South Carolina and Qatar supporting U.S. Central Command missions in the Middle East.

Fuller also served as a White House Fellow from 2018 to 2019, working in the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Defense on issues including opioid policy and support for POW/MIA families.

Raised in the North Georgia mountains, Fuller attended Emory University before earning a master’s degree in public administration from Cornell University and a law degree from Southern Methodist University.

A Test of Political Strength in Northwest Georgia

The runoff now presents a political contrast between a Trump-aligned Republican prosecutor and a retired Army general attempting to assemble a cross-party coalition in one of Georgia’s most conservative regions.

Although the district’s voting history favors Republicans, Harris argues that voter frustration with national politics has created an opening. “Yes, it’s ruby red,” Harris said after the initial results. “It won’t turn blue, but it’ll definitely turn pink.”

For Republicans, the contest is also a test of Trump’s continued influence inside the party after the dramatic political split that led to Greene’s resignation.

For voters in the mountains and rural counties of northwest Georgia, the April runoff will determine who represents them in Washington for the next year and a half — and whether the district continues its deep-red tradition or edges toward a more competitive political future.

Sidebar: Why Georgia Requires a 50% Majority in Elections

Georgia election law requires a candidate to receive more than 50 percent of the vote to win most statewide and federal elections outright. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the top twovote-getters advance to a runoff election.

The rule was adopted in the 1960s as part of broader election reforms intended to ensure that winning candidates have majority support rather than simply finishing first in a crowded field.

Runoffs are especially common in special elections, where many candidates from both parties often appear on the same ballot. In these contests, voters choose among all candidates at once rather than through separate party primaries.

If no candidate reaches the majority threshold in the first round, the runoff typically held several weeks later gives voters a final choice between the top two finishers.

Georgia is one of the few states that still regularly uses runoff elections. The system has produced several nationally watched contests in recent years, including the 2021 U.S. Senate runoffs that ultimately shifted control of the Senate in Washington.

In Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, the April 7 runoff between Shawn Harris and Clay Fuller will determine who completes the remainder of Marjorie Taylor Greene’s term in Congress.

A Farmer, a General, a Democrat: Shawn Harris Enters Georgia’s 14th District Race

Late-Night Votes and Narrow Defeats: How Georgia’s Crossover Day Reshaped Taxes, Elections, and Public Safety

Charter School Funding and Tax Relief Dominate Pre-Crossover Debate

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