The Georgia Hour, episode 54: April 3, 2025

Tomorrow marks Sine Die, the end of Georgia’s legislative session. Yesterday, a vote to halt taxpayer-funded gender-affirming care for inmates saw Democrats walk out, leaving only two to vote. Chris Carr, AG and gubernatorial candidate, is criticized for previously allowing such care, while Brian Strickland, a Republican state senator, filed for AG, potentially breaching etiquette pending Governor Kemp’s plans. HB397 and SB214 (paper ballots) passed the Senate; HB397 awaits House confirmation, while SB214’s House vote is delayed to 2026 unless rules are suspended—unlikely but possible. Judge Totenberg dismissed Curling vs. Raffensperger on standing after seven years, timing it with these election bills. The Senate also voted to equalize teacher and police death benefits, sidestepping broader mental health issues. Third-grade reading scores remain flat, prompting $30.5M for literacy coaches, screeners, and recommendations.

The GAGOP denied Lisa Piece’s 1st Vice Chair bid after nine days, despite her meeting requirements. Transparency issues plague party leadership, including Cobb County’s chair election, where Sophia Farooq lost to Mary Clarice Hathaway, who may not meet residency rules—raising suspicions of manipulation. VoterGA’s past removal from a fish fry and Josh McKoon’s silence on controversies, including support for Colton Moore and Harrison Floyd, fuel calls to oust him as chair. Travis Bowden possibly returns as GAGOP executive director, with questions lingering about his funding and event fees.