Category: Politics

Warnock Pushes Bipartisan Plan to Stop Private Equity from Buying Up Single-Family Homes

Sen. Raphael Warnock backs bipartisan legislation to limit private equity firms from buying single-family homes, aiming to restore access to homeownership for first-time buyers in Atlanta.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | March 6, 2026

A bipartisan housing proposal backed by Raphael Warnock could significantly reshape the housing market in Atlanta and across the nation by limiting the ability of large institutional investors to purchase single-family homes.

Warnock announced that a provision he championed has been included in the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, a sweeping federal housing package designed to address rising housing costs and limited homeownership opportunities.

The provision would prohibit institutional investors from purchasing additional single-family homes if they already own more than 350 such properties. The legislation specifically targets large private equity firms that have increasingly purchased homes in bulk and converted them into rental properties.

Courtesy Senator Raphael Warnock

“In Atlanta, private equity’s greed is squeezing first-time homebuyers out of the market and pushing the American Dream further out of reach,” Warnock said in announcing the measure. “It’s time Congress did something about it. That’s why I’m proud to have helped lead the bipartisan effort to ban private equity from mass-purchasing homes. This legislation is bipartisan and common sense: let’s get it done.”

The proposal includes steep penalties for firms that violate the restriction. Institutional investors who purchase single-family homes beyond the allowed threshold would face fines of either $1 million or three times the purchase price of the home.

Funds collected through those penalties would be directed toward new housing construction and financial assistance programs for first-time homebuyers.

Why Atlanta? Ground Zero for Corporate Ownership

Atlanta’s housing market has become a focal point in the national debate over institutional home ownership. According to figures cited by Warnock’s office and regional research institutions, roughly 30 percent of Atlanta’s single-family rental homes—about 70,000 properties—are owned by institutional investors.

Much of the research tracking corporate homeownership in metro Atlanta comes from Georgia State University, where geographer Dr. Taylor Shelton has mapped institutional investor activity using property records and tax filings. His work shows that large portfolios of investor-owned homes are concentrated in several fast-growing suburban counties.

The impact is especially visible in Gwinnett, Henry, Cobb, and Clayton counties, where large investment firms have purchased thousands of homes over the past decade. In some neighborhoods in Henry County, investors have purchased nearly one out of every three homes sold in recent years.

Large institutional landlords have built enormous housing portfolios across the region. Companies such as Invitation Homes, Progress Residential, and Tricon Residential collectively own tens of thousands of single-family homes in metro Atlanta. In some suburban communities, a single company may control hundreds of houses, transforming once owner-occupied neighborhoods into large rental portfolios.

As competition for existing homes has intensified, some investors have shifted strategies. In several north metro counties, including Cherokee and Forsyth, developers are now building entire neighborhoods designed exclusively for rental housing—a model known as build-to-rent.

The surge in investor ownership accelerated during the housing boom that followed the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2020 and 2022, institutional investors dramatically expanded their footprint in metro Atlanta, taking advantage of historically low interest rates and a wave of homes entering the market.

In some quarters during that period, investors accounted for more than 30 percent of all home purchases in the region, according to housing market analyses from firms such as Redfin and Zillow.

The Impact on the “American Dream”

Atlanta quickly became one of the nation’s most active markets for corporate homebuying. Large companies purchased homes in bulk, often making all-cash offers that individual buyers struggled to match.

For many Atlantans, the shift has been visible in everyday ways. Homes that once might have been sold to young families or first-time buyers are now part of corporate rental portfolios. In some neighborhoods, “For Rent” signs appear where “For Sale” signs once stood, a change that housing advocates say has quietly reshaped the path to homeownership across the region.

According to the Atlanta REALTORS® Association, the median home price in metro Atlanta reached roughly $411,000 in late 2025, placing homeownership further out of reach for many first-time buyers.

Housing advocates say large-scale purchasing by investment firms has contributed to rising home prices and reduced the number of starter homes available to individuals and families trying to buy their first property.

Warnock, who serves on the Senate Banking Committee, has pushed several initiatives aimed at increasing housing affordability since arriving in the Senate in 2021. The committee plays a key role in shaping federal housing policy.

The Georgia senator has also introduced legislation focused on expanding housing supply nationwide, including proposals that would help finance the construction of nearly three million additional housing units.

Warnock often links his housing advocacy to his own upbringing. Raised in public housing in Savannah, he was one of twelve children in a working-class family.

Supporters of the measure say limiting institutional purchases could reopen the door to homeownership for many families who have been priced out of the market.

The provision is expected to move forward as part of the broader ROAD to Housing Act, which lawmakers hope will receive Senate approval in the coming months.

SIDEBAR: Where Corporate Investors Are Buying Homes in Metro Atlanta

Research from housing analysts and regional planning agencies shows several metro Atlanta areas with especially high levels of institutional investor activity.

• Gwinnett County – More than 10,000 homes owned by major corporate landlords
• Henry County – One of the highest concentrations of investor-owned homes in Georgia
• Cobb & Clayton Counties – Thousands of corporate-owned homes tied to large rental portfolios
• Old Fourth Ward & West Midtown – Urban neighborhoods targeted for high-end rental conversions near the BeltLine
• Cherokee & Forsyth Counties – Emerging “build-to-rent” subdivisions developed entirely for rental housing

Researchers say the trend accelerated after the 2008 housing crisis, when large investment firms began purchasing foreclosed homes in bulk across metro Atlanta.

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Bottoms Brings Gubernatorial Message to Madison, Emphasizes Roots, Rural Healthcare, and Affordability

Keisha Lance Bottoms campaigned in Madison, Georgia, outlining Medicaid expansion, tax reform, and free technical college as key priorities in the 2026 gubernatorial race.

By Milton Kirby | Madison, GA | February 28, 2026

On a rainy Thursday evening in Georgia, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, now a Democratic candidate for governor, made a campaign stop at Wing Nights @ Benny Paul’s in downtown Madison. The event drew a standing‑room‑only crowd, offering Bottoms an intimate setting to share her platform, her family history, and her vision for the state.

The Madison stop followed earlier appearances in Athens as part of a multi‑city swing through northeast Georgia. Bottoms opened her remarks by grounding her candidacy in deep Georgia roots, telling the audience her family could trace its history back five generations in the state. Her grandmother was from Crawfordsville; her grandfather was born in Monroe and raised in Winder; his father was from Athens.

“I’ve served in three branches of Georgia government,” she reminded the crowd — as a judge, a city council member, and as mayor of Atlanta. She noted that her mayoral tenure included “one of the toughest times,” steering the city through the COVID‑19 pandemic.

A Message Tailored to Small‑Town Georgia

Bottoms acknowledged Madison’s unique position among Georgia’s small towns. “Madison is fortunate,” she said. “Most small towns don’t look like Madison. Most small towns are struggling in this state.”

She tied those disparities to uneven access to state and federal resources. “So much of it has to do with the resources that we are getting from the federal government, also the resources that we are getting from the state government — and in this moment, the resources that we are not getting from the Federal government.”

Madison’s hospital remains open, she noted, while many rural communities have not been as fortunate. Nine rural hospitals in Georgia have closed, she said, arguing that Medicaid expansion is essential to stabilizing healthcare access statewide.

Before Congress passed what she called the “Big Ugly Bill,” Bottoms said, 300,000 Georgians lacked access to healthcare. After the bill’s passage, she argued, premiums “skyrocketed.”

Affordability, Taxes, and Education

Bottoms highlighted affordability as a central theme of her campaign. “The affordability issue is not a hoax,” she said. “We are talking about the cost of utilities, the cost of healthcare, and the cost of living in general.”

She reiterated her interest in eliminating state income taxes, particularly for teachers, but emphasized that any tax reform must be done responsibly. “If we don’t act responsibly in how we eliminate state income taxes, then local sales taxes have to go up,” she said. “Local input is exceedingly important.”

Education also featured prominently. Bottoms said she wants to create a pathway to free technical and community college, describing it as a workforce investment that would benefit the entire state.

Record as Mayor and Vision for the State

Bottoms pointed to her record in Atlanta as evidence of her ability to deliver results. During her administration, she said, the city achieved four consecutive balanced budgets, avoided raising property taxes, and created or preserved 7,000 units of affordable housing. She also cited the creation of a child savings account for all public school kindergartners and investments in workforce development.

“If we can do it in Atlanta, in the midst of a historic economic downturn, I know that we can do even better and even more across the state of Georgia,” she said.

She also highlighted an entrepreneurial training program launched during her tenure. “I saw kids who had hustle and a spirit for entrepreneurship,” she said, adding that the needs across Georgia remain “plentiful.”

A Warm Reception in Madison

The event was hosted by Brince and Emily Benford, owners of Wing Nights @ Benny Paul’s. Brince Benford said hosting the meet‑and‑greet was meaningful for his family and business. “It was great for us to participate in democracy,” he said.

Despite the steady rain voters packed the restaurant, listening with what appeared to be intense curiosity. After her remarks and a brief Q&A, Bottoms stayed to take photos with every attendee who lined up.

Several voters, who preferred to remain anonymous, told The Truth Seekers Journal they were “excited about the Bottoms campaign for governor.”

A Shifting Democratic Field

Bottoms’ visit came one week after a Democratic gubernatorial forum featuring seven candidates. The field narrowed on Thursday when State House member Ruwa Romman announced she was suspending her gubernatorial campaign to run for the open Georgia State Senate District 7 seat instead.

The Democratic primary is scheduled for May 19, 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026. Voters at the Madison event said they were eager to hear more from the candidates as the race continues to take shape.

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Robb Pitts Delivers 2026 State of the County: “We’ve Got It All”

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | February 24, 2026

Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts delivered a confident and at times defiant message Tuesday morning, declaring that Fulton County is “stronger than ever” during his 2026 State of the County address.

Hosted by the Council for Quality Growth at The Eastern, the breakfast event drew hundreds of business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders under the theme: “We’ve Got It All.”

From senior services and infrastructure to jail reform and election security, Pitts outlined what he described as a year of major investments and bold decisions.

Seniors and Community Investment

Pitts began by highlighting expanded services for seniors across the county.

Thanks to Fulton County’s transportation program, seniors took more than 276,000 trips last year to grocery stores, medical appointments, pharmacies, and senior centers. More than 167,000 meals were delivered to seniors at home or served at neighborhood senior centers.

The county also launched a new initiative to protect seniors from online scams and hosted its first Senior Olympics, drawing more than 500 participants in what Pitts called “an amazing event” built on community and competition. He promised the 2026 games would be even larger.

Infrastructure Investment: Water, Airports, and the Beltline

Photo by Milton Kirby State of Fulton County

The chairman emphasized more than $1 billion in water infrastructure investments across North and South Fulton to meet the demands of a growing population.

“Our infrastructure is stronger,” Pitts said, pointing to environmental protections tied to the upgrades.

He also celebrated progress at Fulton County Executive Airport, formerly known as Charlie Brown Airport. A planned customs facility will soon allow for international travel, and with runway expansion already underway, Pitts said nonstop flights to Europe will become possible.

“That’s a big deal,” he told the audience.

Beyond aviation, Pitts noted that 85 percent of the Atlanta BeltLine is expected to be complete by the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further cementing the county’s economic and tourism profile.

Jail Renovation and Mental Health Services

One of the most significant announcements was a landmark, long-term renovation plan for the Fulton County Jail on Rice Street. Pitts described a billion-dollar overhaul designed to address deteriorating conditions and improve safety.

As part of broader justice reform efforts, the county will add a new medical unit focused specifically on inmate mental health services an acknowledgment of the growing mental health crisis within correctional facilities.

The plan aims to modernize the jail while improving care and accountability.

Economic Strength

Pitts also highlighted Fulton County’s financial health, noting that the county continues to maintain a coveted AAA credit rating. He pointed out that Fulton ranks fourth in the nation for the number of Fortune 500 companies headquartered within its borders.

Those metrics, he said, reflect both stability and opportunity.

“We are proud to be the largest county in the state of Georgia,” Pitts said. “Proud to be a top county in these United States of America.”

Defending Elections After FBI Raid

The most forceful portion of Pitts’ address centered on election security.

Referencing the January 28, 2026 FBI raid on the Fulton County election office, Pitts spoke with visible resolve.

“Our elections are safe. Fulton County elections are fair. Fulton County elections are lawful. Fulton County elections are transparent. And every legal vote that is cast is counted,” he said.

He criticized what he described as threats to nationalize local elections and warned that Fulton County would resist any attempt to take control of its election operations.

“We will fight any effort to take over our election with every resource that we have available,” Pitts said. “That’s today. That’s tomorrow. And as long as it takes to protect democracy and your right to vote.”

He urged residents to mobilize for the 2026 and 2028 election cycles, telling attendees that “talk is cheap” and encouraging them to ensure their friends, families, and neighbors vote.

“Stronger Than Ever”

Closing on an optimistic note, Pitts praised residents, workers, students, and families who call Fulton County home.

“Fulton County is stronger than ever,” he said. “And it is because of each and every one of you.”

The event concluded with remarks thanking sponsors, staff, and partners, as attendees lingered at The Eastern to continue conversations about the county’s future.

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Seven Visions for Georgia: Inside the Democratic Gubernatorial Field

Seven Democrats outline competing visions for Georgia governor at the DeKalb forum, debating Medicaid expansion, childcare, wages, housing, and economic reform ahead of 2026.

Milton Kirby | Chamblee, Georgia | February 23, 2026

On a cool February evening inside the auditorium at Chamblee High School, seven Democratic candidates stepped onto the stage with one shared promise: to reshape the future of a state at a political crossroads. Their styles varied some polished, some fiery, some pastoral but the urgency in the room was unmistakable. Georgia is changing, and each candidate came prepared to argue that they are the one who understands that change best. What emerged from the forum, and from their published platforms, is a portrait of a party wrestling with both its identity and its opportunity. The candidates agree on the broad strokes expanding Medicaid, lowering the cost of living, strengthening education but diverge sharply on how bold Georgia must be to meet the moment.

A Shared Foundation: Medicaid, Wages, and Affordability

All seven candidates support expanding Medicaid. All speak about lowering the cost of living. All frame education as central to Georgia’s economic future.

But the similarities begin to diverge once the details surface.

Keisha Lance Bottoms: Crisis-Tested Leadership

Courtesy photo Keisha Lance Bottoms

Bottoms leans heavily on her executive experience as Atlanta’s mayor during COVID-19 and the 2020 protests. She describes herself as “crisis-tested.”

Her platform calls for:

  • Medicaid expansion
  • Eliminating the state income tax for teachers
  • Cracking down on corporate landlords
  • Free technical and community college

Her pitch blends practical governance with moral urgency. She frequently frames her candidacy as restoring stability in uncertain times.

Olu Brown: Values-Driven Governance

Courtesy photo Olu Brown

Brown, a former pastor, frames policy through faith and community values. He speaks often about compassion and responsibility.

His priorities include:

  • Healthcare access as economic stability
  • Strong reproductive rights protections
  • Raising educator wages
  • Strengthening rural outreach

At the DeKalb forum, Brown said Georgia students must be trained to “compete with the rest of the world,” not simply prepared to be citizens of Georgia.

Geoff Duncan: The Party Switch and the Moderation Case

Courtesy photo Geoff Duncan

Duncan’s candidacy is the most unconventional. A former Republican lieutenant governor, he switched parties in August 2025 and now runs as a Democrat, framing his campaign as a rejection of political extremism.

His platform emphasizes:

  • Lower childcare costs
  • Rural hospital stabilization
  • Bipartisan economic moderation
  • Lower overall cost of living

Duncan often references moral language, urging voters to reject division and rediscover a politics grounded in “love thy neighbor.”

Jason Esteves: The Education Governor

Courtesy photo Jason Esteves

Esteves officially launched his “Education Governor” platform just days before the forum.

His plan includes:

  • Universal childcare for 3- and 4-year-olds
  • Major K–12 investments
  • Medicaid expansion
  • Renter protections
  • A small business loan fund targeting Black-owned businesses

Esteves frames childcare as economic policy. In his view, if families cannot afford care, they cannot fully participate in the workforce.

Derrick Jackson: A $20 Minimum Wage

Courtesy photo Derrick Jackson

Jackson is the only candidate explicitly calling for a $20 minimum wage.

He pairs that with:

  • Tax exemptions for teachers, nurses, seniors, and veterans
  • Medicaid expansion
  • Support for Black farmers and small businesses
  • Rural hospital protection

Jackson frequently emphasizes his 42 years of leadership experience in the military and legislature. His campaign message centers on working-class uplift.

Ruwa Romman: The Progressive Disruptor

Courtesy photo Ruwa Romman

Romman offers the most explicitly progressive platform in the field.

Her proposals include:

  • Raising the minimum wage
  • Taking homes back from corporate landlords
  • Reopening rural hospitals
  • Creating a research hub to fund healthcare systems
  • Pressing pause on data centers to lower utility costs

Her campaign is rooted in organizing and structural reform. She presents herself as an outsider prepared to challenge entrenched systems.

Mike Thurmond: The Steady Hand

Courtesy photo Mike Thurmond

Thurmond’s candidacy rests on long public service and a reputation for turning around struggling institutions, from the state Labor Department to DeKalb County government.

His platform emphasizes:

  • Rethinking Georgia’s regressive sales tax structure
  • Lower grocery, rent, and healthcare costs
  • Statewide healthcare equity
  • Unity over ideology

Rather than positioning himself as the most progressive or the most moderate, Thurmond leans into competence and experience.

The Real Debate: How Bold Should Georgia Be?

The forum revealed less disagreement about direction and more disagreement about scale.

Should Georgia move incrementally or structurally?
Should reform be targeted or sweeping?
Should Democrats lean into progressive energy or moderate appeal?

Together, the seven candidates offer voters a rare thing: a competitive primary where experience, ideology, and identity collide in meaningful ways.

The question for Democrats is not whether they have options.

It is which vision best matches the Georgia they believe is emerging.

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Robb Pitts to Deliver 2026 State of Fulton County Address Feb. 24

Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts will deliver the 2026 State of the County Address February 24 at The Eastern, outlining priorities, projects, and economic outlook.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | February 18, 2026

Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts will deliver the 2026 State of Fulton County Address next week before an audience of business and civic leaders. The annual breakfast program will take place Tuesday, February 24, from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m. at The Eastern, with more than 400 elected officials, business leaders, county staff, residents, and regional partners expected to attend.

The event is hosted by the Council for Quality Growth in partnership with Fulton County Government. This year’s State of Fulton is presented by Amazon, Develop Fulton, and the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority.

Pitts’ address will highlight achievements and major projects from the past two years while outlining his priorities and vision for 2026. This will be his fifth State of the County address since becoming chairman in 2017, and his second of the current term.

A veteran public servant, Pitts previously served 13 years on the Fulton County Commission and 20 years on the Atlanta City Council. His tenure has spanned periods of rapid population growth, economic expansion, and significant infrastructure investment across the county.

Michael Paris, President and CEO of the Council for Quality Growth, said Fulton County continues to play a central role in the region’s economic strength.
“Fulton County remains a driving force in our region’s economic vitality,” Paris said. “We value our strong partnership with Fulton County and look forward to Chairman Pitts’ insights on the county’s priorities and the path ahead for its communities.”

The program will also include remarks from 2026 Council Chair Gerald McDowell, Executive Director of the ATL Airport Community Improvement Districts, and Fulton County Commissioner Bob Ellis.

Presenting sponsors will offer updates as well. Scheduled speakers include Terreta Rodgers of Amazon’s Georgia Region; Sarah-Elizabeth Langford; and Jevon Gibson.

Danny Johnson, Managing Director of the Natural Resources Department at the Atlanta Regional Commission, will provide an update on behalf of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, offering insight into water resources and regional planning initiatives.

The Council for Quality Growth’s State of the County and Agency Series includes similar annual events across eight metro Atlanta counties and two major agencies, including MARTA and the Atlanta BeltLine. The series is designed to connect the business community with local government leadership and provide a forward-looking assessment of policy, infrastructure, and development priorities.

5 Things to Know About Robb Pitts

1. Longest‑Serving Metro Atlanta Public Official
Pitts has held elected office for more than four decades, including 20 years on the Atlanta City Council and over a decade on the Fulton County Commission.

2. Current Chairman Since 2017
He was elected Fulton County Chairman at the end of 2017 and has since led the county through major growth, infrastructure expansion, and regional coordination.

3. Champion of Economic Development
Pitts has been a key figure in strengthening Fulton’s role as the economic engine of Georgia, working closely with business, civic, and regional partners.

4. Advocate for Modernized County Services
Under his leadership, Fulton has invested in public safety, justice system improvements, health services, and major capital projects.

5. Regional Voice on Policy and Infrastructure
Pitts is a consistent presence in regional planning conversations, collaborating with agencies such as the Atlanta Regional Commission, MARTA, and the ATL Airport CIDs.

More details and registration information are available through the Council for Quality Growth’s official event page.

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Rev. Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights Leader and Political Trailblazer, Dies at 84

Rev. Jesse Jackson, civil rights icon and presidential candidate, dies at 84, leaving a legacy of justice, hope, HBCU pride, and athlete equity reform.

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

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the modern Civil Rights Movement and two‑time presidential candidate who reshaped American politics, has died at the age of 84. Jackson passed away peacefully at his home in Chicago, surrounded by family, according to his daughter Santita Jackson. The family has not released a cause of death, though Jackson publicly disclosed in 2017 that he had been battling Parkinson’s disease.

Born Jesse Louis Burns on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson later adopted the surname of his stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson, at age 15. From humble beginnings in the segregated South, he rose to become one of the most recognizable moral voices in America.

A graduate of North Carolina A&T State University, Jackson returned to his alma mater as commencement speaker in May 1984, just months after mounting a historic presidential campaign that energized millions. I was among the graduating seniors that day, watching him fuse faith, politics, and possibility in a message that was not simply celebratory but urgent and instructive. His words carried the cadence of a movement and the clarity of a mandate.

Jackson stood beside Martin Luther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when King was assassinated in 1968. In the aftermath, he carried forward the unfinished work of economic justice, voting rights, and dignity for the poor. Through Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) and later the Rainbow Coalition now the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition Jackson pressured corporations to open their boardrooms to minorities and women and demanded that public policy reflect the needs of the marginalized.

His fiery oratory and signature phrases “Keep Hope Alive” and “I Am Somebody” became rallying cries. For many young Americans watching from public housing and underfunded schools, his presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 signaled that national leadership was within reach. His efforts helped widen the political pathway later walked by Barack Obama and other leaders of a new generation.

Jackson’s influence extended far beyond electoral politics. Decades before today’s debates over athlete compensation, he questioned the economic structure of college sports, criticizing universities for generating millions from football and basketball programs while players many of them young Black men saw none of the revenue beyond scholarships. His argument, once controversial, laid intellectual groundwork for what would later become Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) reforms, allowing college athletes to profit from their own brands.

On the global stage, Jackson negotiated the release of hostages abroad, including Americans held in Syria and Cuba, and engaged world leaders in diplomatic efforts rooted in human rights. His ministry blended spiritual conviction with political activism, bringing poetry and prophetic power into the public square.

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock said, “America has lost one of its great moral voices… As a kid growing up in public housing while watching him run for President, Rev. Jesse Jackson gave me a glimpse of what is possible and taught me to say, ‘I am somebody!’”

Tributes echoed across political and generational lines. President Donald Trump called him “a force of nature like few others before him.” Al Sharpton described him as his mentor and “a movement unto himself.” Bernice King posted a photo of Jackson beside her father with the words, “Both now ancestors.”

Jackson’s life was not without controversy. He publicly acknowledged fathering a child outside his marriage, a revelation that tested his public image. Yet even amid personal trials, he remained a relentless advocate for justice.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jacqueline Brown, and their five children: Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, and Jacqueline.

From Greenville to Memphis, from Chicago to Greensboro, Jesse Jackson spent more than half a century urging America to expand its moral imagination. He did not simply preach hope. He organized it. He demanded it. And for more than fifty years, he kept it alive.

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Charter School Funding and Tax Relief Dominate Pre-Crossover Debate

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | February 16, 2026

With Crossover Day approaching and the legislative calendar tightening, Georgia lawmakers accelerated activity beneath the Gold Dome last week, advancing a slate of tax, education, and regulatory reform bills that are shaping the policy direction of the 2026 session.

The flurry of movement includes sweeping income tax proposals, early literacy initiatives, and structural changes to how state agencies interpret and implement Georgia law.

Tax Cut Proposals Move at Unusual Speed

Two major tax cut bills—Senate Bill 476 and Senate Bill 477—introduced just last week by Senate Appropriations Chair Blake Tillery, advanced rapidly through the Senate. The Senate Finance Committee approved both measures Tuesday, and the full Senate passed them Thursday.

SB 476, titled the Income Tax Reduction Act of 2026, would effectively eliminate the first $50,000 of taxable income for single filers and $100,000 for joint filers. The measure proposes offsetting revenue losses by phasing out corporate tax credits by 2032.

SB 477 would gradually reduce Georgia’s personal income tax rate to 3.99% by 2028.

The House is pursuing its own tax reduction path. House Bill 880, introduced by Rep. Shaw Blackmon, also aims to lower the income tax rate to 3.99% and would allow a portion of undesignated surplus funds to be used for tax relief. After carrying over from the 2025 session, HB 880 cleared the House Ways and Means Committee this week.

Blackmon is also sponsoring House Bill 1116, which received its first hearing. The proposal would authorize local governments and school systems to exempt homesteads from property taxes by shifting to local sales taxes instead. The bill includes caps on revenue growth from non-exempt properties and makes technical adjustments to education funding formulas and tax digest procedures.

Early Literacy Gains Momentum

Education policy is also advancing. Both chambers now have versions of the Georgia Early Literacy Act of 2026—House Bill 1193, sponsored by Rep. Chris Erwin, and Senate Bill 459, sponsored by Sen. Billy Hickman.

The House version passed out of committee Thursday. Both proposals would fund K–3 literacy coaches through Georgia’s education formula and require kindergarten attendance before first grade. Supporters say the measures are designed to strengthen foundational reading skills and improve long-term academic outcomes.

Charter School Infrastructure and Regulatory Reform

Companion bills—Senate Bill 498 and House Bill 1253 would establish a Georgia Charter School Facilities Authority. The authority would provide revolving loans and public financing assistance for charter school construction and renovation projects.

Meanwhile, regulatory reform efforts are advancing. House Bill 1247, the Georgia Bureaucratic Deference Elimination Act, would end “Chevron-style” judicial deference at the state level by directing courts not to automatically defer to agency interpretations of Georgia law.

Another measure, House Bill 903, sponsored by Rep. Alan Powell, passed the House this week. The bill would expand the scope of Georgia’s Administrative Procedure Act, increasing transparency and oversight across the executive branch. HB 903 now heads to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

SIDEBAR: What Is Crossover Day?

Crossover Day is one of the most important deadlines in the Georgia General Assembly’s 40-day legislative session. It marks the point—typically Day 28—when a bill must pass out of its chamber of origin to remain viable for the year.

Why It Matters

  • A House bill must pass the House by Crossover Day to be considered by the Senate.
  • A Senate bill must pass the Senate to move to the House.
  • Bills that fail to “cross over” are effectively sidelined unless revived through procedural maneuvers or attached to other legislation.

What Happens on Crossover Day

  • Lawmakers often work late into the night.
  • Floor calendars are packed with high-profile and time-sensitive bills.
  • Leadership prioritizes measures with broad support or strategic importance.
  • Controversial bills sometimes move quickly, while others stall by design.

Why It Shapes the Session

Crossover Day forces legislators to make strategic choices:

  • Which bills advance
  • Which bills die quietly
  • Which issues will define the remainder of the session

For reporters and the public, it marks a clear dividing line between early-session positioning and late-session negotiation. After Crossover Day, attention shifts to reconciliation, amendments, and final passage before Sine Die.

A Compressed Timeline

With a shorter week ahead and Crossover Day looming, lawmakers are expected to intensify debate and floor action. Measures that do not pass at least one chamber by the deadline face a steeper path forward this session. As Georgia’s 2026 legislative agenda takes shape, TSJ will continue tracking the fiscal impact, education implications, and regulatory shifts emerging from the Gold Dome.

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DeKalb County’s 1.2M Shelter Investment Aims to Move Residents from Crisis to Stability

DeKalb County invests $1.2 million in a 400-bed emergency shelter on Gresham Road, launching a 90-day stabilization model to address homelessness.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | February 13, 2026

DeKalb County has committed $1.2 million to launch what leaders call a first-of-its-kind, 400-bed emergency shelter aimed at providing immediate safety and a clear pathway to housing for residents experiencing homelessness.

The new 90-day emergency shelter, located at 2582 Gresham Road, will be operated by Frontline Response, a nonprofit with years of experience serving individuals facing housing instability. County officials say the facility is part of a broader housing strategy centered on dignity, coordination, and long-term solutions.

“This investment reflects our belief that housing stability is fundamental to the health and well-being of our entire community,” said Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of DeKalb County. “By pairing emergency shelter with comprehensive services and strong partners like Frontline, we are creating real opportunities for people to stabilize, rebuild, and move forward.”

A Three-Phase Model

County leaders describe the shelter as more than a place to sleep. The program follows a coordinated three-phase approach designed to move individuals from crisis to stability.

Outreach and Rescue
County outreach teams will engage individuals living in encampments and public spaces. Teams will provide food, immediate assistance, and connections to services. The initiative also supports coordinated cleanups of encampments on public property, with an emphasis on communication and care.

Emergency Shelter with Wraparound Services
The 400-bed facility will offer temporary housing along with wraparound services. These include medical and dental care, behavioral and mental health services, substance use support, job readiness training, and access to other critical resources needed for stabilization.

90-Day Stabilization and Transition Support
Residents will receive three meals a day, access to showers and laundry facilities, behavioral health services, and intensive case management. The 90-day model is designed to prepare individuals for placement into transitional or long-term housing.

“This shelter is designed to be a bridge, not a destination,” said Dr. Alan Ferguson, DeKalb County’s Chief Housing Officer. “Our goal is to meet immediate needs while actively working toward permanent solutions.”

County officials point to transitional housing efforts such as the 500 Park Place initiative, which helps families move from extended-stay motels into stable housing, as part of that broader continuum of care.

Terry Tucker, Director at Frontline Response, said the goal is to meet people where they are.

“This shelter allows us to provide safety, structure, and services in one place, helping individuals regain stability and take the next steps toward housing and independence,” Tucker said.

The $1.2 million investment was approved by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners as part of a comprehensive housing strategy that prioritizes affordable housing development, emergency shelter, and transitional housing solutions countywide.

For more information, residents can contact Frontline Response at 404-817-3502.

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Donald Trump Issues Three Demands to Change America’s Elections

President Donald Trump calls for mandatory voter ID, proof of citizenship, and limits on mail voting, escalating debate over federal authority, election integrity, and constitutional limits.

By Sam Stevenson | Washington, DC | February 6, 2026

Key takeaways

  • Voting Rules: Trump demands mandatory voter ID, proof of U.S. citizenship, and a near-total ban on mail-in ballots, except for illness, disability, military service, or travel.
  • Federal Oversight: He suggests nationalizing key election rules to standardize voting across states, aiming to prevent inconsistent or vulnerable practices.
  • Political Impact: The plan intensifies Trump’s long-running campaign to question U.S. election integrity, sparking debate over state control vs. presidential influence.

President Donald Trump is seeking to redefine the rules of American voting, unveiling a trio of requirements he says are necessary to restore public confidence in U.S. elections.

In a new Truth Social post, Trump declared that America’s elections are “rigged, stolen, and a laughingstock,” and urged Republicans to unite behind what he calls the Save America Act—a plan that would dramatically tighten access to the ballot box.

Why It Matters

Trump’s proposals align with his broader push to shift election authority toward federal standards despite constitutional limits and recent court rulings curbing such efforts.

What To Know

In the Truth Social post, Trump listed three demands:

  • Mandatory voter ID for every voter.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship to register.
  • A near‑total prohibition on mail‑in ballots, limited only to cases of illness, disability, military service, or travel.

Taken together, the package would represent one of the most sweeping overhauls of federal election administration in modern history.

It also marks the latest escalation in Trump’s long-running campaign to cast doubt on U.S. election integrity—an effort that has shaped both Republican politics and congressional debates since his first term.

Trump’s demands come as he increasingly calls for greater federal authority over how states conduct their elections.

In a recent interview on The Dan Bongino Show, he floated the idea of nationalizing key election rules, arguing that standardized federal oversight would prevent what he sees as inconsistent or vulnerable state practices.

The proposal triggered immediate pushback from critics, who warned it would undercut state control and inject unprecedented presidential influence into the electoral system.

Trump previously signed an executive order directing federal agencies and the Election Assistance Commission to require documentary proof of citizenship for the federal voter registration form and to enforce election day ballot receipt deadlines— moves now facing multiple legal setbacks.

Federal judges blocked key parts of that order, including attempts to require proof of citizenship for the federal voter registration form and for military voters, citing constitutional separation of powers and the limits of presidential authority over election procedures.

In Congress, Republicans introduced the Make Elections Great Again Act to set national baselines for voter ID, citizenship verification, mail-ballot deadlines, paper ballots, and limits on ballot collection, while separately pushing the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act to mandate proof of citizenship to register.

What People Are Saying

Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Monday: “Does Donald Trump need a copy of the Constitution? What he’s saying is outlandishly illegal.”

Republican Representative Don Bacon wrote on X: “I opposed nationalizing elections when Speaker Pelosi wanted major changes to elections in all 50 states. I’ll oppose this now as well. I work w/the NE Gov & Unicameral to ensure we have secure elections where every citizen’s vote counts. This is what the Constitution calls for.”

Lawyer Bradley P. Moss told Newsweek: “There is no legal basis for the President to nationalize elections. The Constitution specifically delegates that authority to the states. Congress can pass laws to modify how states administer elections, and they have done that several times in our history with things such as the Voting Rights Act and the NVRA, but the states still actually run the elections.”

What Happens Next

Trump and Republican allies are expected to continue pressing Congress to advance federal election bills like the SAVE Act and the MEGA Act. Democrats will likely oppose them, and constitutional challenges are set to proceed in federal courts.

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DeKalb CEO Outlines 2026 Legislative Priorities as Session Begins

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | January 31, 2026

As Georgia’s 2026 legislative session officially gets underway, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, CEO of DeKalb County, met virtually with members of the DeKalb County House Legislative Delegation to outline the county’s priorities and highlight areas where state partnership will be critical in the months ahead.

The meeting marked the first formal engagement between county leadership and the delegation since the annual legislative dinner and coincided with the launch of Georgia’s constitutionally mandated 40 legislative-day session. That session, led by the Georgia General Assembly, is scheduled to conclude April 2.

Against the backdrop of hundreds of bills expected to be introduced, debated, and voted on before final measures reach the governor’s desk, Cochran-Johnson emphasized three core objectives: reaffirming alignment between the County’s executive leadership and Board of Commissioners, sharing updates on issues that have evolved since the last meeting, and identifying areas where collaboration with state lawmakers will be essential.

Top Legislative Priorities for 2026

DeKalb County’s 2026 legislative agenda reflects a unified approach to housing stability, infrastructure, governance reform, public safety, and long-term sustainability. The county’s top five priorities include:

Regulatory authority over vacant and rental properties.
County leaders are seeking authorization to establish and maintain a comprehensive registry of all rental and vacant properties, regardless of business licensing status. Officials say a verified in-state contact list would improve accountability and help ensure properties meet basic safety, health, and maintenance standards.

Annexation and new city reforms.
DeKalb is calling for revisions to state law governing municipal annexations and the creation of new cities. Proposed changes include repealing restrictions related to the sale of parks, reviewing the 60 percent annexation method, removing barriers to de-annexation, opposing legislative annexations advanced without county support, and limiting the use of taxpayer funds for annexation consultants.

Tenant protections.
The county is backing legislation requiring property owners to clearly disclose all lease-related fees, including junk fees, before a tenant signs a lease and in all housing advertisements.

NextGen 911 funding.
DeKalb is seeking increased and more flexible funding to support next-generation emergency systems, including integration with the county’s Real Time Crime Center and technologies that allow video, text, and GPS capabilities during emergency calls.

Expanded authority for Community Service Aides.
Proposed legislation would allow Community Service Aides to handle minor injury and property damage accidents, freeing sworn officers to focus on higher-priority public safety needs.

Public Works Leadership Update

In addition to outlining legislative priorities, Cochran-Johnson announced the appointment of Robert L. Gordon as Director of Public Works, effective immediately.

Gordon brings more than 40 years of leadership experience in public works and fleet management. Most recently, he served as Deputy Director of Fleet Management, overseeing procurement, maintenance, and lifecycle management for county vehicles supporting public safety and infrastructure services.

“Robert Gordon is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the complex operations that keep DeKalb County running,” Cochran-Johnson said, citing his institutional knowledge and commitment to service delivery.

As director, Gordon will oversee Fleet Maintenance, Roads and Drainage, Sanitation, and Transportation, while advancing initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure reliability, operational efficiency, and customer service. His career includes managing preventive maintenance for more than 600 heavy trucks and earning national recognition from the American Public Works Association, including induction into its Public Fleet Hall of Fame.

Gordon holds an associate’s degree in business management, professional certifications from the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and currently serves on the board of Clean Cities Georgia.

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House Of Representatives Passes 13th Amendment, Abolishing Slavery

Reflecting on the 161st Anniversary of the 13th Amendment – A Nation at War Takes a Defining Step Toward Freedom

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 31, 2026

Today marks a date that should be etched into the mind of every American who values the sanctity of the law and the progress of human liberty. On this day, January 31, 1865, the United States House of Representatives sat in a chamber thick with the scent of tobacco and the heavy weight of history. They were there to decide if the “peculiar institution” of slavery would finally be purged from our national charter.

The amendment’s language was stark in its clarity:
“Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude… shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

As we at The Truth Seekers Journal spend our days digging through modern court authorizations and federal actions, it is vital to look back at the most significant “court-authorized” action in our history: the passage of the 13th Amendment.

A House Divided, A Gallery Overflowing

The atmosphere in Washington 161 years ago was electric. The Civil War was grinding toward its bloody conclusion, but President Abraham Lincoln knew that his Emancipation Proclamation was merely a wartime measure, a temporary fix that could be undone by a future court or a hostile peace. He needed a “King’s cure,” a permanent constitutional seal that would ensure freedom was not just a policy, but a foundational right.

The vote was far from a sure thing. Just months earlier, the House had failed to reach the necessary two-thirds majority. But through the relentless political maneuvering of James Mitchell Ashley and the unwavering moral clarity of Thaddeus Stevens, the tide began to turn.

When the final tally was announced—119 to 56—the House erupted. Reports from the time describe a “tumult of joy” that broke all decorum. Members wept openly. The galleries cheered so loudly the rafters shook. For the first time, the word “Slavery” was used in the Constitution not to protect it, but to abolish it forever.

The vote came nearly four years into the Civil War, at a moment when the Union’s military fortunes had begun to turn and the moral urgency of abolition had become inseparable from the nation’s survival. President Abraham Lincoln, who had issued the Emancipation Proclamation two years earlier, had long argued that only a constitutional amendment could permanently end slavery across all states including those loyal to the Union.

The Power of the Record

What strikes me, as I review the FBI’s recent confirmations regarding election record custody in Union City, is the parallel of accountability. In 1865, the struggle was over the custody of human lives; today, our struggle is often over the custody of the truth and the integrity of our democratic processes.

The 13th Amendment succeeded because of a transparent, recorded vote. It succeeded because men like Lincoln and Stevens weren’t afraid to push against the status quo to ensure that the law reflected the will of a free people.

Why We Remember

At The Truth Seekers Journal, we believe that history is a living document. When we ask the FBI about the statutory basis for a search warrant, we are standing on the shoulders of those who demanded that the federal government operate under the light of constitutional authority.

The 13th Amendment didn’t just end a dark chapter; it set a precedent that the Constitution belongs to the people, and its amendments are our tools for course correction.

As we continue to investigate the events unfolding at the Fulton County Election Hub, let us remember the lesson of January 31, 1865: Truth and transparency are the only path to a more perfect union.

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FBI Executes Search Warrant at Fulton County Election Hub Seeking 2020 Ballots

The FBI executed a search warrant at Fulton County’s Election Hub, seizing 2020 ballots and records in a move local officials call alarming and politically charged.

By Milton Kirby | Union City, GA | January 29, 2026

Federal Bureau of Investigation agents executed a court-authorized search warrant Wednesday at the Fulton County Election Hub and Operations Center in Union City, Georgia, seizing records connected to the 2020 presidential election as part of what authorities described as an ongoing federal investigation.

The FBI confirmed it was conducting “court-authorized law enforcement activity” at the county’s primary elections facility south of Atlanta but declined to provide further details. “Our investigation into this matter is ongoing so there are no details that we can provide at the moment,” the agency said in a statement.

Fulton County Elections Hub

Fulton County spokesperson Jessica Corbitt-Dominguez confirmed that the warrant sought 2020 election records but declined further comment while the search was underway. County officials said the FBI remained inside the building into the evening hours.

County Leaders Express Alarm and Compliance

Robb Pitts, chair of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, told reporters late Wednesday that he did not know where the seized records were being taken.

“All I know is that as long as those boxes had been in the control of the county in this facility, they were safe and secure,” Pitts said. “I can no longer, as chair of this board, satisfy not only the citizens of Atlanta but the citizens of the world that those ballots are still secure.”

Sherri Allen, chair of the Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections, said the board “fully complied” with the FBI and confirmed agents were still on site as of 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

State Sen. Josh McLaurin, a Democrat whose district includes Fulton County, called the search “extremely alarming,” warning that it could further erode public trust in election administration.

Scope of the Warrant and Legal Questions

According to county officials, the FBI sought all ballots from the 2020 election in Fulton County, including tabulator tapes, ballot images, and voter rolls.

Fulton County Commissioner Mo Ivory said the initial warrant presented by agents was “incorrect legally” and challenged by county officials on site. The FBI later returned with a corrected warrant, she said.

The county’s Clerk of Superior Court, Che Alexander, who is the legal custodian of the election materials, was present during the search and inventorying the items taken, Ivory said.

“The commissioners, the chairman, the county attorney are trying to figure out a legal plan,” Ivory said during a press conference outside of the facility. “Maybe an injunction, a motion to quash, something. We’re trying to figure it out.”

Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr. said the Trump administration had previously attempted to obtain the same 2020 election records through civil litigation. Because the records were sealed as part of earlier investigations, the county did not release them. Arrington noted the records were scheduled for release within months as a result of those civil actions.

He questioned why a criminal investigation—with no named defendant—began only after those civil efforts failed, and why records from the 2024 election were not sought.

Political Context and Renewed Scrutiny

The FBI search comes amid renewed federal attention to Fulton County, a jurisdiction that has remained a focal point of former President Donald Trump’s repeated false claims that the 2020 election was “rigged.”

Speaking last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trump again asserted without evidence that the election was fraudulent and said “people will soon be prosecuted.”

Fulton County was central to Trump’s post-election efforts in Georgia, including a now-infamous January 2021 phone call in which he pressured Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to “find 11,780 votes,” roughly President Joe Biden’s margin of victory in the state.

Trump also publicly speculated that ballots had been shredded in Fulton County claims that were repeatedly debunked by audits, recounts, and court rulings.

Pitts said he was not surprised by the federal action. “Fulton County is sort of on a hit list,” he said. “We have complied with the law. The 2020 elections were fair. They were open. Every legal vote was counted, and we will continue to comply with the law.”

DOJ, Intelligence Officials, and Election Security Claims

The search also follows a December Department of Justice complaint requesting extensive 2020 election materials from Fulton County, including used and void ballots, ballot stubs, signature envelopes, and related digital files, citing an investigation into compliance with federal law.

According to a senior Trump administration official, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was also in Fulton County on Wednesday and visited the elections hub the same day the FBI executed the warrant.

“Director Gabbard has a pivotal role in election security and protecting the integrity of our elections,” the official said, adding that she was acting under Trump’s directive to secure elections nationwide.

Pitts said Gabbard had not communicated with the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

Warnings of Intimidation and Historical Parallels

Several local and state officials warned the federal action could be perceived as intimidation ahead of upcoming elections.

“This is a scare tactic. This is a distraction,” Commissioner Mo Ivory said. “This is about sowing the seeds of fear so that people will not show up at the polls in May and November.”

Georgia State Rep. Saira Draper said Fulton County has undergone repeated audits and investigations since 2020, all of which cleared the county of wrongdoing.

“If this administration had a genuine interest in investigating voter fraud,” Draper said, “they would be investigating Coffee County, a red county, where there is actual evidence of people going into the election office after hours and copying election documents.”

Former special counsel Jack Smith previously documented how false fraud claims targeting Fulton County led to death threats against election workers.

Two of those workers, Ruby Freeman and Wandrea Shaye Moss, were falsely accused by Trump allies of manipulating ballots. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani amplified those claims. A jury awarded Freeman and Moss $148 million in damages in 2023, a judgment Giuliani satisfied in 2025.

National Reactions

U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock condemned the search, calling it politically motivated.

“The FBI should be focused on going after violent criminals, not carrying out political errands for a vengeful President,” Warnock said. “Republicans and Democrats agree: the 2020 elections were accurate and secure. End of story.”

Meanwhile, Josh McKoon praised the action, saying it marked “a major step toward truth and accountability” and arguing Georgians have waited years for answers about the 2020 election.

A Facility Built for Transparency

The Fulton County Election Hub, which opened in 2023, houses more than 261,000 square feet dedicated to elections staff, operations, and equipment. County officials have repeatedly cited the facility as evidence of enhanced transparency, security, and chain-of-custody controls.

As of Wednesday night, county leaders said they were still assessing legal options and seeking clarity on the scope and implications of the federal seizure.

The Truth Seekers Journal reached out to the FBI seeking additional information regarding the search warrant and scope of the investigation. No response had been received at the time of publication.

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Warnock Forces Release of $192M in Delayed Federal Aid for Helene Recovery

Sen. Raphael Warnock secures $192 million in delayed Hurricane Helene relief, pushing total recovered Georgia disaster funds past $500 million amid reimbursement disputes.

By Milton Kirby | Washington, D.C. | January 28, 2026

U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock announced Tuesday that he has secured an additional $192 million in federal disaster relief funding owed to Georgia communities recovering from Hurricane Helene, marking the latest installment in a months-long effort to force the release of delayed reimbursements.

The funds were released by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after sustained pressure from Warnock’s office, as counties across Georgia particularly in rural areas faced mounting financial strain and the prospect of lawsuits from contractors seeking payment for completed recovery work.

The announcement follows a December 2025 release of $300 million in outstanding Helene payments that Warnock also helped unlock, bringing the total recovered funds to more than $500 million in recent months.

“I am thrilled to announce I have secured an additional $192 million in federal funding owed to Georgia communities recovering from Hurricane Helene,” Warnock said. “Hurricanes and natural disasters are not political; they do not care if you voted red or blue. Georgia counties and cities went right to work recovering from Helene’s destruction with the understanding the federal government would fulfill its promises.”

Warnock emphasized that the fight is not over. In September 2025, he released a report finding that nearly $500 million in promised federal disaster funding remained unpaid. Follow-up reviews later increased that figure to as much as $600 million, raising alarms about the financial exposure of local governments forced to front recovery costs.

The funding stems from a 2024 disaster recovery bill championed by Warnock, designed to reimburse counties and state agencies for emergency work performed after Helene. Despite bipartisan congressional support, Warnock’s office says the delivery of funds was slowed by administrative breakdowns and bureaucratic delays within the Trump Administration.

Among the largest recipients in the latest reimbursement round is the Georgia Department of Transportation, which received $78.3 million. Counties receiving funding include Columbia County ($16.6 million), Emanuel County ($11.3 million), Jefferson County ($10.4 million), Burke County ($6.6 million), and Coffee County ($4.7 million), among others.

Warnock said he will continue pressing federal agencies until Georgia receives every dollar it was promised. “It should not have gotten to this point,” he said. “I will continue fighting until Georgia’s communities especially rural Georgia get every cent they are owed.”

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Brett Kavanaugh raises impeachment question in Trump Federal Reserve case

Why It Matters

The justices are contemplating a case that deals with the president’s removal of an independent official and what counts as “for cause.” An attorney representing Cook, former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, tells the court that impeachment, a form of removal of an official, is “the ultimate backup” in a hypothetical situation that Justice Samuel Alito presented to him.

During arguments, several justices questioned whether President Donald Trump has the authority to fire a sitting Fed governor over allegations of mortgage fraud that Cook denies. Earlier in the hearing, Justice Brett Kavanaugh warned that allowing Cook’s dismissal could “weaken, if not shatter, the independence of the Federal Reserve.”

What To Know

Following Justice Samuel Alito’s hypothetical question, “how about if, after the person assumes office, videos are disclosed in which the officeholder is expressing deep admiration for Hitler or for the Klan?” Clement, responded “that’s an official that would be impeached in a heartbeat.”

Amid the back and forth among other justices as well, Clement reiterated that his “backup to the backup” is “impeachment.” Kavanaugh then jumped in stating, “We got an argument in the past that impeachment doesn’t cover private conduct. You obviously disagree with that then?”

Clement responded, “Well, I certainly see, but this actually kind of makes the point about judicial review, right?”

Kavanaugh said, “I’m not saying I agree with that, by the way. It’s been—it’s been argued.”

Cook’s attorney then said, “What I absolutely agree with is the Walter Nixon case says that there’s no judicial review of the impeachment determination in the end. So whatever the House and the Senate ultimately determine, I mean, they can make constitutional law, too and they can determine whether private conduct is or is not out.”

The back and forth continued with Clement bringing up “INM,” referring to inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance, which comes from the Federal Trade Commission Act. He told the Court, “the reason I want to spend at least a moment answering some of the hard hypos is not because I’m a masochist. It’s just because those are—have got to be the answers under INM.”

Kavanaugh responded, “your answer is that those are funneled to the impeachment process?” to which Clement responded “that’s right,” continuing on that “INM has worked for 150 years. And I think it would continue to work. It hasn’t proven a problem in practice.”

Why Did Trump Fire Lisa Cook From the Federal Reserve Board of Governors?

Trump moved to remove Cook from the Federal Reserve Board, citing allegations that she committed mortgage fraud in 2021, before she joined the central bank. The administration argues that Cook improperly claimed two properties as primary residences, potentially securing more favorable loan terms. Trump’s legal team has said the allegations amount to misconduct sufficient to justify her dismissal, though Cook has not been charged with any crime. Critics have questioned whether the effort reflects a broader attempt by Trump to exert greater control over the independent central bank and influence interest rate policy.

Key takeaways

  • Impeachment as Backstop: Justice Brett Kavanaugh questioned whether impeachment is a realistic safeguard for removing independent officials, with attorney Paul Clement calling it the “ultimate backup” for misconduct or controversial behavior.
  • Trump vs. Lisa Cook: President Trump attempted to remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook over alleged mortgage fraud, raising concerns about Federal Reserve independence and presidential authority to fire governors.
  • About Lisa Cook: Cook is the first Black woman on the Fed Board, an economist focused on labor markets, economic inequality, and innovation, helping set U.S. monetary policy insulated from political pressure.

Who Is Lisa Cook? What to Know

(AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Cook is a Federal Reserve governor and the first Black woman to serve on the Fed’s Board of Governors. An economist by training, she was confirmed to the board in 2022 after previously serving as a professor at Michigan State University and holding roles focused on economic research and policy.

Cook’s work has centered on labor markets, economic inequality and innovation. As one of seven governors, she helps set U.S. monetary policy, including interest rates, in a role designed to be insulated from political pressure.

What People Are Saying

The Supreme Court justices, writing in a separate case last year: “The Federal Reserve is a uniquely structured, quasi-private entity that follows in the distinct historical tradition of the First and Second Banks of the United States.”

Justice Sonia Sotomayor, speaking Wednesday: “This whole case is irregular, starting with the Truth Social notice…But that’s where we are.”

White House spokesman Kush Desai previously told The Associated Press: “President Trump lawfully removed Lisa Cook for cause from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. We look forward to ultimate victory after presenting our oral arguments before the Supreme Court in January.”

What Happens Next

The justices finished oral arguments on Wednesday and are expected to rule on the case at a later date.

This article was written by Mandy Taheri.

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

Retired Brigadier General and farmer Shawn Harris enters Georgia’s 14th Congressional District race, positioning himself as a pragmatic alternative after Marjorie Taylor Greene’s resignation.

By Milton Kirby | Rockmart, GA | January 17, 2026

Confident, but not cocky. Bold, but not brash.
That is how Shawn Harris comes across on a cold January afternoon in Rockmart in northwest Georgia. We caught up with Harris working on his cattle farm, adjusting an underground freshwater delivery system designed to keep his herd fed through winter freezes.

Harris is a Democratic candidate in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, a sprawling region covering 10 counties across the northwest corner of the state. The district stretches from rural farmland to small manufacturing towns, a footprint shaped more like a winding patchwork than a clean rectangle. Until recently, it was represented by one of the most polarizing figures in modern American politics.

Former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress effective January 5, 2026. In a video announcement released weeks earlier, Greene cited public clashes with Donald Trump and frustration with the political system. That resignation date was not accidental. Public records indicate it marked the minimum service threshold roughly five years required to qualify for an estimated annual congressional pension of about $8,700.

With Greene’s exit, the 14th District enters a rare moment of political reset.

From Farm to Battlefield  and Back Again

Harris is no stranger to difficult terrain.

After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Over a four-decade military career, he rose from private to Brigadier General an achievement so rare it places him among a tiny fraction of service members nationwide.

Photo by Milton Kirby Harris’ beef cattle grazing

To put that rise into perspective: while the U.S. Army has roughly 450,000 active-duty soldiers, only about 130 to 150 serve as Brigadier Generals at any given time. Fewer than 5 percent of Colonels are ever selected for promotion to the first general officer rank. The climb typically requires more than 25 years of service, advanced degrees, senior service college graduation, and survival through the military’s unforgiving “up or out” promotion system.

Harris served as a combat infantry commander in Afghanistan before retiring as a General. When his military service ended, he and his wife, Karla, returned home to Georgia and back to the land.

A Special Election, a Crowded Field

Following Greene’s resignation, Gov. Brian Kemp set a special election for March 10, 2026, in accordance with Georgia law. The timeline allows for ballot access, overseas military voting, and compliance with federal election requirements.

Beef stock just days from delivery

Because the contest is a special election, all candidates regardless of party will appear on a single “jungle” ballot. A runoff is expected if no candidate clears 50 percent. In total, 22 candidates qualified, including 17 Republicans.

Harris enters the race with recent electoral history. In the November 2024 general election, running head-to-head against Greene, Harris received 134,759 votes, 35.6 percent of the total, while Greene garnered 64.4 percent. For a first-time candidate in one of Georgia’s most Republican districts, the showing surprised many observers.

Harris believes that result revealed a growing coalition. “There is a pathway to victory,” he said. “It requires one victory every day, one voter, one volunteer, one yard sign at a time.”

Why He’s Running

Harris describes his candidacy as rooted in lived experience rather than political theater.

He grew up on a Georgia farm. He enlisted to serve his country. He and Karla have been married for 36 years, raised five children, and now have four grandchildren. While Harris served overseas, Karla became a family physician. When his military career ended, they returned to Georgia not Washington.

Harris says the resignation of Greene has changed the conversation in Northwest Georgia.

“For years, we watched national drama take priority over local needs,” he said. “Now we have a once-in-a-generation chance to bring real leadership back to this district.”

Policy Grounded in Place

Harris’ platform emphasizes practical issues affecting rural and working families.

On agriculture, he supports a fully funded Farm Bill that prioritizes small and medium-sized farms, protects SNAP benefits, modernizes water infrastructure, and expands access to advanced agricultural technology beyond corporate producers.

On healthcare, he opposes proposed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, calls for expanded rural specialist access, increased mental health and addiction services, and protection of reproductive healthcare from political interference. He also supports removing marijuana from federal drug schedules to expand medical access for veterans and chronic pain patients.

On the economy, Harris backs expanded prescription drug price negotiations, rural broadband investment, infrastructure funding, labor protections, and efforts to bring stable, high-paying jobs back to Northwest Georgia.

On national security, he calls for modernized immigration processing, tougher action on fentanyl trafficking, expanded port screening, and domestic investment in supply chains and cybersecurity.

As a veteran, Harris opposes privatization of VA healthcare and supports expanded trauma care, suicide prevention, and job training programs that translate military skills into civilian opportunity.

Still a Farmer

Despite four decades in uniform, Harris remains unmistakably a farmer.

Farmers For Shawn Harris a yard sign in the neighborhood

One of his prized possessions is a young bull calf half Black Angus, half Wagyu. Wagyu cattle, a Japanese breed known for exceptional marbling, are prized worldwide. Harris smiled as he spoke about the animal.

“This is a valuable member of the herd,” he said. “He could be sold for beef or as a stud bull.”

For Harris, that choice mirrors the district he hopes to represent: rooted in tradition, full of potential, and deserving of careful stewardship.

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DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Elects New Leadership as Data Center Debate Intensifies

DeKalb County commissioners elect Chakira Johnson as Presiding Officer and LaDena Bolton as Deputy while deferring a key data center zoning vote until July.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | January 14, 2026

DeKalb County entered 2026 with a shift in political leadership and a community still wrestling with one of the most consequential land‑use debates in its history. On Tuesday, the Board of Commissioners elected new officers while also voting to delay action on proposed data center zoning rules, a pause that reflects both rising public pressure and the county’s struggle to balance economic opportunity with environmental and neighborhood protections.

The meeting drew a packed room of residents from South and East DeKalb, many of whom have spent months demanding transparency, clearer communication, and stronger safeguards as data center proposals continue to surface across the county.

A New Leadership Team for a Critical Moment

Courtesy photo Chakira-Johnson-Presiding-Officer

Commissioners unanimously selected Chakira Johnson (District 4) as Presiding Officer and elected LaDena “Dr. B” Bolton (Super District 7) as Deputy Presiding Officer, a pairing that blends deep engineering expertise with community‑rooted advocacy.

Chakira Johnson: Engineering Mindset Meets Procedural Power

Johnson brings more than two decades of experience in civil engineering, municipal operations, and public infrastructure management. A Georgia Tech graduate with a master’s degree in international relations from Troy University, she is a licensed professional engineer in three states and was named one of Engineering Georgia’s 50 Notable Women in 2022.

Her résumé is matched by her long-standing service in DeKalb: nearly 30 years as a resident and 16 years on the Stone Mountain City Council, including three terms as Mayor Pro Tem. She has been a consistent advocate for STEM education and youth engagement.

As Presiding Officer, Johnson will guide the Board’s procedural direction running meetings, appointing committee chairs, and shaping how and when major issues come to the floor. She emphasized a leadership style grounded in professionalism and public trust.

“I am committed to leading with efficiency, integrity, and respect,” Johnson said. “This Board serves the people of DeKalb County.”

LaDena Bolton: A Community Voice With Scientific Rigor

Bolton, known affectionately as “Dr. B,” enters the Deputy Presiding Officer role during her first year on the commission. A graduate of Avondale High School, she credits her December 2024 election to long-standing community relationships and grassroots service.

Courtesy photo LaDena-Bolton-Deputy-Presiding-Officer

Her professional background includes a Ph.D. in chemistry from Clark Atlanta University, a bachelor’s degree from Savannah State University, and a career as an analytical forensic chemist working in national security, energy sustainability, and health equity.

Bolton’s early initiatives reflect her community-first approach:

  • March Into a Cleaner Tomorrow, a countywide cleanup effort that mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers and removed roughly five tons of litter in three months.
  • Youth Aviation Program, the county’s first, offering underserved students hands-on aviation training at DeKalb‑Peachtree Airport and mentorship toward earning pilot licenses.

Her office uses the bee pollinator as a symbol of collective work and community uplift.

“We’re building legacies from the inside out,” Bolton said. “Families, youth, neighborhoods that’s where the work begins.”

Why These Roles Matter Now

Under the DeKalb County Organizational Act, the Presiding Officer and Deputy Presiding Officer shape the Board’s internal structure and public-facing process. They control meeting flow, committee leadership, special session calls, and how major issues like data centers move through the system.

With public trust strained and residents demanding clearer communication, the leadership style of Johnson and Bolton will directly influence how the county navigates the months ahead.

Data Centers: A Debate That Has Become a Community Flashpoint

Beyond leadership elections, commissioners voted to delay action on data center zoning changes until July, when the planning commission is expected to present updated recommendations.

The pause comes after months of intense debate, particularly in South and East DeKalb communities that have historically borne the brunt of industrial encroachment, infrastructure strain, and uneven economic development.

Community Concerns

Residents have raised concerns about noise from cooling systems, water usage in a county already facing infrastructure challenges, environmental impact on nearby neighborhoods, proximity to homes and schools, and transparency in how proposals are evaluated.

Many residents say they are not opposed to economic development they simply want development that respects community health, land use, and long-term sustainability.

Economic Stakes

County officials, including CEO Lorraine Cochran‑Johnson, have noted that a single large-scale data center could generate an estimated $27 million annually in tax revenue, driven by the high value of servers and cooling equipment.

Supporters argue that revenue could support long‑delayed water system upgrades, reduce pressure on residential taxpayers, and strengthen the county’s long-term financial position.

They also describe data centers as essential digital infrastructure the unseen backbone of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and modern communications.

Regulation vs. Restriction

Proposals under discussion include 500‑foot buffers from residential areas, strict noise limits, generator restrictions, environmental impact reviews, and community benefit funds. Commissioner Ted Terry has suggested dedicating a portion of data center tax revenue to libraries, youth programs, and neighborhood improvements.

Statewide Scrutiny: Georgia Reconsiders Its Data Center Boom

The local debate mirrors a broader conversation unfolding at the Georgia Capitol.

A report from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government found that data center projects have generated more than 28,000 construction jobs, over 5,000 permanent positions, and billions in economic impact statewide.

Metro Atlanta led the nation in data center expansion last year, surpassing Northern Virginia, according to CBRE.

But the growth comes with a cost: state utility regulators have approved plans to add roughly 10,000 megawatts of new power generation capacity, much of it to meet data center demand.

State Rep. Ruwa Roman has introduced bipartisan legislation proposing a moratorium on new data center construction through 2027.

“This is permanent,” Roman said during recent hearings. “And if we get it wrong, Georgians will deal with the consequences for decades.”

Looking Ahead: Leadership, Trust, and the Path Forward

As DeKalb County moves deeper into 2026, the election of Johnson and Bolton signals a leadership team that blends technical expertise with community‑centered advocacy. Their challenge will be guiding a divided public conversation while ensuring transparency, fairness, and long-term planning.

The July deadline for data center zoning recommendations sets the stage for a pivotal summer one that will test the Board’s ability to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, neighborhood protection, and community trust.

For residents, the question remains: what kind of development will shape DeKalb’s future and who gets to decide?

For Johnson and Bolton, the months ahead will define not only their leadership but the county’s direction for years to come.

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