Political Breakfast from WABE

It's time for this week's Political Breakfast! Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene is one of several GOP lawmakers threatening to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson, now that he's voted with Democrats to send billions in aid to Ukraine, Israel and other nations. Greene recently filed a motion to vacate the Republican speaker. Johnson joined with Democrats on Saturday to advance a 95 billion foreign aid package. It now heads to the Senate, which is expected to give final approval this week. But Johnson can't afford to lose much Republican support in the House, with a slim majority. Greene pointed that out in a heated interview after the vote over the weekend, calling Johnson a "lame duck."  Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down Greene's reaction to the vote with host Lisa Rayam.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, the conversation continues from news earlier this week about special prosecutor Pete Skandalakis being appointed to investigate Georgia GOP Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. The case is over Jones' role in former president Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election.  In 2020, Burt Jones signed on as a fake elector for Donald Trump, after Joe Biden's victory in Georgia.  Prosecutors allege this was part of a plan to overturn Trump’s loss. Jones claims he did nothing illegal. Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia, appointed himself after Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis was disqualified from taking the case.  Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down the politics surrounding the case with host Lisa Rayam.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, the team responds to a recent Newsweek article that has attorneys for former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows calling the Georgia election interference case "unglued." Meadows was indicted along with former president Donald Trump and others as part of the RICO case being prosecuted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam share throughts on whether the Meadows case is in fact falling apart, or if Willis and her team are in a strategic position to prosecute. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Georgia first lady Marty Kemp recently said she would not vote for Donald Trump in November - and she'd "write Brian Kemp's name in. He'd make a darn good president." Trump has targeted Governor Kemp for declining to help interfere with Georgia's 2020 election result.  But despite that animosity, Kemp hasn't lashed-out - and pledged to support the GOP's ultimate nominee.  The Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discuss with host Lisa Rayam. Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson is out this week. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's first episode of Political Breakfast, A Biden/Harris campaign ad declares they're "putting the work in for Black America." In turn, are they forcing the Trump campaign to amplify it's putting in the work? The Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson share their perspectives with host Lisa Rayam. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, it's Republican strategist Brian Robinson, host Lisa Rayam and Atlanta Civic Circle director Saba Long, who's filling-in for Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson. The crew discusses former President Donald Trump returning to Georgia for a luncheon in Atlanta on Wednesday. Big Georgia money will flow into Trump's campaign from this luncheon. Just a photo with the former president costs 25 thousand dollars per couple.   Among those hosting: former U.S. GOP Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue. Both lost their 2021 runoffs to Democratic U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and are coming back as Trump allies.  We weigh-in on the significance of this event, Trump's overall momentum in Georgia, and which voters will determine this November election. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, the dust clears and the 2024 legislative session is over under the Gold Dome. But there's still business to hash through. The big question is, will Governor Brian Kemp sign all of the bills passed by the general assembly and sent to his desk? Some are of more interest to Republican strategist Brian Robinson, host Lisa Rayam, and Atlanta Civic Circle Director Saba Long, who's filling-in for Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson this week. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers pass a flurry of bills before the last day of the legislative session, sine die, but not every big ticket item made it to the governor's desk.

We're two days away from Sine Die, the last day of the 2024 Georgia legislative session. It's a chaotic race to the finish where lawmakers are reviewing and voting-on hundreds of bills.  Host Lisa Rayam is out this week. But Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson take us through a few bills they're focused on, and some insight they're getting from walking the halls of the Gold Dome.  That includes one bill that would compensate exonerated people who lost years of their lives in prison. Plus, this week's episode comes on the heels of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens' state of the city address. Dickens touched on the future of building light rail and connecting MARTA to the Atlanta BeltLine, building more housing and building the city's public safety training center, which police say is on-track to open by the end of this year.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With just a few days left in this year's legislative session, lawmakers are jamming through bills any way they can.

It's time for this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, where strategists Tharon Johnson, Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam address Democrats' fears about President Joe Biden's chances in Georgia.  The Atlanta Journal Constitution published an article this week that cited several lawmakers voicing concerns, that Georgia won’t get the same focus as battleground voters in other states like Michigan and Pennsylvania. Former Democratic U.S. Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux says Biden’s campaign is likely to focus more on the “white working class” in the Midwest than more diverse Georgia voters. U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams says she is not worried at all, and warns that local election advocates need to do the grassroots work. Plus, Georgia U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff is getting involved in delays and complications with the U.S. Postal Service.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, we're still seeing calls from the right for Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis to step aside from the Georgia election Interference case - even though her former special prosecutor Nathan Wade resigned from the case on Friday. A judge ruled one of them would have to go last week, because of a conflict of interest and their past romantic relationship. In a letter accepting Wade's resignation, Willis complimented him for his QUOTE "professionalism and dignity." Then over the weekend, Wade canceled a highly-anticipated live interview with NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday .. citing a family emergency. The interview would have been the first chance to hear Wade's take on the ruling. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam weigh-in on the latest in the election interference saga. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A judge ruled that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis could remain on the Georgia election interference case, but only if special prosecutor Nathan Wade stepped aside.

Georgia Republicans have passed public subsidies for private school tuition by the slimmest of margins.

Have Donald Trump's divisive MAGA movement and Joe Biden's low approval rates driven former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan to potentially run for president?  Duncan could be running for president in November under the third-party, bipartisan movement 'No Labels.'  Multiple national news outlets report Duncan could be featured on the movement's so-called "unity ticket" and challenge the presumed nominees President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump.  WABE has reached out to Duncan for a statement on this news.  So far he has not offered a comment, but is not shutting down the reports of stirring things up.  Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson weigh-in on the potential White House bid. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, Donald Trump and Joe Biden hosted two competing presidential campaign rallies in Georgia over the weekend.  Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam to compare the turnout and excitement at both events – as both candidate's approval ratings aren't reflecting the same energy.  Both Trump and Biden say the path to the White House in 2024 runs through Georgia. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former President Donald Trump’s last Republican challenger, Nikki Haley, has bowed out of the race ahead of Georgia’s presidential primary on Tuesday.

On this special edition of Political Breakfast, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strateigst Tharon Johnson sort through some of the bills and issues that were getting tossed around on the all-important Crossover Day under the Georgia State Capitol. Immigration and sports betting captured their attention, but so did the overall buzz that filled the halls of the Gold Dome on this monumental day. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lawmakers scramble to keep their bills alive on Crossover Day.

On this week's Political Breakfast, we're joined by special guest, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond, who is also an author and longtime historian! His new book is titled, 'James Oglethorpe: Father of Georgia, A founder's journey from slave trader to abolitionist.' It's been a decades-long journey for Thurmond. In 1996, he was part of a delegation that traveled to England to celebrate the 300th birthday of British native Oglethorpe, who founded the British colony of Georgia in 1733. Thurmond starts by telling host Lisa Rayam and strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson that the idea for the book struck while Thurmond explored the legacy of Georgia’s founder at his grave in London. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this Edition of Political Breakfast, we discuss the tragic murder of nursing student Laken Hope Riley on the UGA campus and the subsequent politicking that has followed. The suspect arrested in the murder case, 26-year-old Venezuelan national Jose Ibarra, unlawfully crossed the U.S.-Mexico border in 2022. Now, Governor Brian Kemp is calling out the Biden Administration for allegedly not protecting the nation's borders properly. State Republicans are also calling for new and stiffer immigration laws. Is this an appropriate response?   Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson take on some tough questions from host Lisa Rayam regarding the immigration issue. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The “First in the South” Republican Presidential Primary is this Saturday in South Carolina.

On this week's Political Breakfast, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civic Circle Director Saba Long discuss Atlanta's housing crisis. Wages have not grown with housing costs. There's also an overall scarcity on the market.  Are rent control and restrictions on landowners the solution? Or is it building more housing? With Atlanta's population expected to grow to around eight million people by 2050, Democrats and Republicans are now taking up the issue under the Gold Dome. Democrat Donzella James introduced Senate Bill 125 earlier this month. It would allow local cities and counties to set their own rates. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a judge considers whether to disqualify Fulton County district attorney Fani Willis from the election interference case, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civil Circle Director Saba Long weigh-in on Willis's testimony during last week's hearing. Willis is accused of having an improper relationship with Nathan Wade, who's the special prosecutor working on the case. A political conversation is also brewing about headlines describing Willis as combative, defiant and angry, in her testimony to defend her ability to lead the Georgia election interference case. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis took the stand in an Atlanta courtroom Thursday to defend her ability to continue helming the Georgia election interference case involving former President Donald Trump.

Georgia's long-serving Democratic U.S. Rep. David Scott has a challenger in the party's May primary.  Democrat Marcus Flowers raised more than 16 million dollars to challenge alt-right Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and represent Georgia's 14th Congressional Distict. He lost in the general election in November of 2022.  We discuss the chatter surrounding the opposition to Scott.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, Atlanta and politics mixed with the Super Bowl.  Besides the 75-yard touchdown the Kansas City Chiefs pulled to win in overtime Sunday night, Atlanta's own R&B singer Usher put on a star-studded halftime performance at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. He represented with Atlanta performers and singers, even shouting at the end "I turned the world to the A."  Strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam also discuss Super Bowl ads that played the political field.  And the group turns back to Georgia Governor Brian Kemp stressing that Republicans need to move away from the 2020 election and issues like the age of Joe Biden and Donald Trump. We take a dive into the internal GOP debate on the future of the party.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Advocates are calling a bill headed to Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s desk a step back from years of criminal justice reform.

On this week's Political Breakfast, the team talks about a new book called 'Find Me the Votes' by investigative journalists Michael Isikoff and Daniel Klaidman. They share intimate details about Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis "the person" and her prosecution of former president Donald Trump, and 18 co-conspirators, in their alleged plot to overturn the 2020 election results.  The book also focuses on the Georgia Republicans who resisted Trump, and endured notorious threats on their families and on their lives. A note of disclosure: The book was released before accusations were made against Willis and her special prosecutor Nathan Wade having a romantic/improper relationship.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, the gang discusses the fallout of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis acknowledging her personal relationship with Special Prosecutor Nathan Wade. Willis also called motions to disqualify her from the Georgia election interference case "meritless."  Plus, Atlanta rapper and activist Michael Render, known as Killer Mike, was just arrested at the Grammys in Los Angeles after sweeping the ceremony with three awards.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Georgia Senate has passed a bill that would allow sports betting, but a last minute addition could complicate its ultimate passage.

A note of disclosure: This episode was recorded 2 days before the antisemitism bill was signed into law. GOP Governor Brian Kemp has signed a bill into law that officially defines antisemitism. Supporters say now Georgia prosecutors and judges can more easily define antisemitism as discrimination or a hate crime.  Democratic State Representative Esther Panitch, the only Jewish member of the General Assembly, co-sponsored the measure. "I do know that prosecutors and investigators need to be taught what the definition means and how to discern between things that may be anti Semitic and things that are not necessarily anti Semitic." The GOP is a united front in support of Israel's war on Hamas. But some Democrats are opposed.  Strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson break down the divide, and how some opponents are concerned that the law simply censors criticism of the Israeli government and violence towards Palestinians.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team analyzes how both the Republican and Democratic parties will leverage the abortion issue during this election cycle. Plus, Brian and Tharon swap theories on what Governor Brian Kemp stands to gain by taking a staunch conservative stance on immigration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Republicans under the Gold Dome have pounced on misconduct allegations lodged against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, the lead prosecutor in the Georgia election interference case.

On this week's second episode of Political Breakfast, Georgia politicians are starting to kick up dust under the Gold Dome week 3 of the legislative session. Republicans and Democrats are both moving forward with hot-button issues. Host Lisa Rayam asks strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson what kitchen-table issues are being pushed so far. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his 2024 White House bid on Sunday and endorsed rival Donald Trump. How will his decision trickle down in Georgia?  Host Lisa Rayam and strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson discuss whether or not Republicans will fall in line behind Trump? Or will former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley pull ahead?  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's budget week at the Georgia State Capitol and more than $35 billion a year are at stake.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis breaks her silence over the hiring of a prosecutor in the Donald Trump election case. But was her response enough?  Questions regarding an alleged affair between the two still loom. On this edition of Political Breakfast, strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson join host Lisa Rayam to weigh how this could hurt her re-election campaign and boost Trump's run for President. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Georgia legislature is back under the Gold Dome, just a few weeks after a contentious special session on redistricting.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, it's our first time airing a second episode – the podcast is now airing twice a week in 2024.  Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and former Georgia GOP Chair Chuck Clay (in for Brian Robinson) debate the general voter climate.  Are voters on both sides really ready for 2024? Or is there an overall weariness surrounding the presidential election.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, we're starting the new year off with a double dose of Georgia's top political issues. Now you can join the dynamic trio – host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson – every Tuesday and Thursday for lively discussions.  It's also the first week Georgia lawmakers are gathering under the Gold Dome for the 2024 legislative session.  Ben Burnett of the Ben Burnett Show fills in for Brian.  On today's podcast, we'll predict the issues state lawmakers are fired-up about, and what will dominate political headlines this session.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast -- It's a year in review. The team sorts through Georgia's best and worst political stories of 2023.    Host Lisa Rayam along with strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson sort through some of the top stories that once again thrust Georgia into the national spotlight.    The fight for and against the Atlanta public safety training facility, the redrawing of district maps and the arrest of former President Donald Trump (as well as his infamous mugshot) are just a few of the stories that made their list. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam discuss a jury awarding $148 million to Fulton election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, following the defamation trial of former New York Mayor and ex-Donald Trump lawyer, Rudy Giuliani.  Giuliani falsely claimed the mother and daughter illegally tampered with election ballots in a mass voting precinct in 2020.  Plus, what do Americans think about Vice President Kamala Harris? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's LIVE edition of Political Breakfast, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam discuss the defamation case engulfing former Donald Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani.  The federal trial started this week in Washington, DC to decide how much Giuliani must pay in damages to two former Fulton County election workers. Giuliani falsely claimed the workers -- Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Shaye Moss -- interfered with the 2020 election vote count in Atlanta.  The pair is seeking up to 43 million in damages.  The Political Breakfast crew breaks down the rise and what some say is the unquestionable fall of New York's former mayor.  A note of disclosure: This episode aired hours before Giuliani decided not to testify in court. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, it's all about redrawing Georgia's Congressional and state political maps ahead of this Friday's deadline. Democrats are preparing for a court fight over the new U.S. House map proposed by Georgia's GOP majority. The new map does create a majority Black district in west Atlanta, but at the expense of Democrat U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath's seat in Gwinnett and north Fulton. Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson weigh-in with host Lisa Rayam.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's back to the drawing board on this week's live episode of Political Breakfast. State lawmakers are convening at the Georgia Capitol for a special session to redraw maps for Congress and the state legislature.  U.S. District Judge Steve Jones recently found the current GOP-drawn maps from 2020 violate the federal Voting Rights Act, and dilute the power of Black voters.  But voting rights plaintiffs -- including the ACLU of Georgia -- say they still have "legal concerns" about a newly-proposed state Senate political map released this week.  The maps must be redrawn by Dec. 8th.  Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and CEO of the Atlanta Civic Circle Saba Long weigh-in with host Lisa Rayam on a live edition of Political Breakfast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's episode of Political Breakfast, the FBI intercepted a letter sent to the Fulton County Elections hub in Fairburn that is possibly laced with the powerful opioid fentanyl. The letter is connected to mail sent to Washington state elections offices. The FBI is currently running tests.  Gainesville's WDUN talk show host Martha Zoller fills-in for Republican Strategist Brian Robinson, along with Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam.  Plus, protesters and police who started a so-called 'Cop City' protest in Gresham Park clashed with police near the future site of Atlanta's public safety training center. Atlanta Police say they found bolt cutters, gas masks, and makeshift construction tools Monday morning in DeKalb County.  And metro Atlanta voters headed to the polls in small numbers on Tuesday November 7th. Mayoral races and several seats on the Atlanta Public School Board were at stake. But turnout was dismal -- just 10 percent in Fulton County.  Finally, Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina drops out of the 2024 presidential race.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson look at the latest New York Times poll showing despite his several felony indictments, Donald Trump is leading in 5 critical battleground states, including Georgia.  According to the poll, voters said they trusted Trump over President Joe Biden on the economy, foreign policy and immigration.  Plus, Trump's outbursts while testifying on the stand during his civil fraud trial in New York.  And Georgia lawmakers sat on a surplus of roughly 16 billion dollars in unspent funds at the end of the last fiscal year. That's likely to spark debate during the 2024 legislative session beginning in January.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Georgia has been tasked with drawing new congressional and state legislative maps before the 2024 election. This comes after a federal judge ruled the current GOP-backed maps violate the federal Voting Rights Act and dilute the power of Black voters.   Host Lisa Rayam has strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson weigh-in on the bipartisan boundary shifting that has a Dec. 8th deadline. Plus, the latest proposal from GOP Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, to give teachers a 10 thousand dollar stipend to be trained in voluntary firearm courses and carry in classrooms.    See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, Project South's La'Die Mansfield joins the podcast to represent opposition to Atlanta's planned public safety training center -- dubbed 'Cop City.'  Mansfield specifially responds to Mayor Andre Dickens' stance on moving ahead with the center's construction and his promises that the entire process will stay transparent.  Plus, host Lisa Rayam and strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson discuss what the 2024 campaign rhetoric will sound like now that a challenge questioning the legality of Georgia's restrictive abortion law has been struck down.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, as the U.S. House of Representatives strives to elect a new speaker, Georgia Congressman Austin Scott, volunteers to pit himself against Representative Jim Jordan for the job. Strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson break down what the wrangling could mean for state Republican leaders. Plus, their reaction to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens' stance in favor of building a public safety training center. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, a long-anticipated appearance from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.     Dickens gives the latest on so-called 'Stop Cop City' ballot referendum efforts.    Dickens has seen the body camera footage of former Atlanta police officer Kiran Kimbrough trying to arrest Atlanta church deacon Johnny Hollman.    Hollman died after being tased during a traffic incident back in August. Why Dickens feels this case supports the reasoning for building a public safety training center.    Plus, Dickens responds to the violence in Israel and in the Gaza Strip, and talks about affordable housing initiatives here at home.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new poll suggests most Georgians seem to support the construction of Atlanta's planned public safety training center. Why were Georgians polled and not just Atlantans? Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civic Circle Director Saba Long weigh-in. Plus, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp's leading political action group launches a campaign to reform Georgia's tort laws. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp is still injecting himself into the national conversation, as a potential government shutdown looms.  During a conversation with The Jolt's Greg Bluestein during the Texas Tribune Festival on Friday, Kemp slammed far-right Republicans for in-fighting and delaying passing legislation to fund the federal government before money runs out on September 30th. A short-term bill is possible, but the GOP can't agree on what should be in it: including omitting Ukraine aid in the spending package, and border security policies.  Strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson weigh-in.  Plus the latest high-profile endorsement for so-called 'Cop City.' Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff backs the need for a new public safety training center, but says "where those facilities are located is a decision for Atlanta."  And Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and California Gov. Gavin Newsom are coming to town in November to square-up in a debate for the GOP presidential nod. Other high-profile lawmakers are also coming to Georgia.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

City of Atlanta officials say they'll scan and release copies of petition signatures against the proposed public safety training center. Mayor Andre Dickens says he wants to know "exactly what is in those boxes," and that he supports allowing the process to run its course in a transparent manner.  Strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson weigh-in on if there are 116 thousand signatures of Atlanta's electorate protesting the planned training site, and who want to force a ballot referendum.  Then the latest in the indictment saga against former president Donald Trump and 18 others in Fulton County, and defendants' fight to move the case to federal court.  Plus, the gang weighs-in on Bidenomics and Joe Biden's approval ratings in Georgia.  And wrapping up the podcast -- "Prime Time" Deion Sanders makes his home coaching debut with the Colorado Buffaloes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, Governor Brian Kemp declares a state of emergency in Georgia over record-high inflation and suspends the state's gas tax.  Strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson also weigh-in on Kemp being a part of the national conversation for a potential run for U.S. Senate. And the latest in Atlanta's so-called 'Cop City' saga. City officials announced Monday they are not able to start verifying tens of thousands of signatures submitted by activists trying to stop the planned public training center.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, far-right Republican and Georgia state Senator Colton Moore recently ranted online that civil war could break out over the prosecution of Donald Trump, saying "I don't want to have to draw my rifle." Moore also called for de-funding Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis. Strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam also talk gun safety measures, and dozens of Georgia mayors sending a letter over the issue to Governor Brian Kemp and the General Assembly. Plus, the team breaks down a federal redistricting trial that weighs whether Republicans violated the Voting Rights act when they re-drew Congressional maps after the last U.S. Census.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam react to Donald Trump's historic mug shot selling mugs.  Trump's election campaign announced that the scowling photo of the former president taken during booking in the Fulton County Jail has raised more than 7 million dollars, with much of the money coming from merchandise.  Plus, the latest poll from the Atlanta Journal Constitution shows that Trump is still leading with Republicans in Georgia, despite his indictment on charges related to conspiring to overturn the state's 2020 election result.  And in wake of Trump's indictment and 18 other alleged co-conspirators, threats have emerged against local lawmakers and Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, the team talks about Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' critics. Or at least one in particular---State Senator Clint Dixon. After Donald Trump and others were indicted for election tampering, Dixon took to social media to say he's filing a complaint against Willis with the newly created Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission.  Her crime? He says because he says she's making moves to become what he calls a "leftist celebrity." Plus, U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina gets a high-profile Georgia endorsement for the GOP presidential nomination. Will it help even though Trump continues to surge in the polls? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on a live version of Political Breakfast, the team tackles the news of the Fulton County grand jury's 41-count indictment of Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants, accusing them of conspiring to overturn Trump's 2020 presidential loss in Georgia. Georgia Lt. Governor Burt Jones was NOT named in the indictment, but many believe he played an integral role. Brian and Tharon discuss the fact that a special prosecutor may be appointed soon to look into Jones' involvement. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, the team tackles the prospect of a former president being indicted by a Fulton County grand jury. Host Lisa Rayam along with strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson address the severity of another Trump indictment and how that could weigh on Georgia's constituency. Plus, the race for Georgia governor in 2026 is simmering with more and more names of potential Democratic and Republican candidates. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, more on Georgia Rep. Mesha Mainor's switch-a-roo. Formerly a Democrat, Mainor is now the first Black Republican woman to ever serve in the state General Assembly. Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civic Circle head Saba Long discuss what Mainor's move means for both Democrats and Republicans. Plus, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp says he will support any GOP nominee picked to run against President Joe Biden, including Donald Trump. The team analyzes Kemp's latest appearance on national tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, will Georgia Governor Brian Kemp seriously consider running for President? More and more Republicans are calling on Kemp to join the crowded pool vying for the GOP nomination . Kemp hasn't taken any concrete steps to run, but he remains a part of the national conversation.  Plus, the Political Breakfast team reflects on the lives of Marvin Arrington, Sr. Bill Shipp and Dr. Christine King-Farris. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is calling on lawmakers to make tampering with a voting machine a felony that carries a minimum sentence of 10 years.  That's Raffensperger's response to critics who say he should instead upgrade the Dominion Voting system software ahead of the 2024 presidential election.  Host Lisa Rayam asks Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson to weigh-in.  Plus, the team talks about the surprise announcement from DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston that her office will opt out of prosecuting the so- called Cop City protestors who were arrested. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, a group of Democratic lawmakers including Georgia Congresswoman Nikema Williams are pushing a joint resolution to negate a clause in the 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution -- that permits the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime. Currently the 13th Amendment says, "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." Plus, court records released recently have caused questions to swirl about just how secure the Dominion Voting machines are here in Georgia. At issue is the software that has been deemed by cybersecurity experts as being "vulnerable."  Georgia Secretary of State officials say any updates will have to wait until after the 2024 presidential election. Chief Operating Officer Gabriel Sterling sits down with host Lisa Rayam and strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, the national spotlight was once again on former President Donald Trump and his fractured relationship with some of Georgia’s top politicians. Trump again reiterated his false claims about election fraud in Georgia. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson also weigh in on delegates picking former state Sen. Josh McKoon as the new GOP chair.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a marathon City Council meeting with hundreds of people speaking in opposition, members eventually approved the city giving millions to build the Atlanta Public Safety Training Facility in South Dekalb County. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam to reflect on the process, reactions from public officials and concerns following the vote. Plus, former President Donald Trump recently congratulated North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un for a new position with the World Health Organization. Governor Brian Kemp reacted by calling out Trump for congratulating a "murderous dictator."   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, former President Donald Trump is set to give the keynote address at Georgia's GOP convention in June. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger say they will not attend the convention, as they urge the party to move on from the 2020 widespread election fraud rhetoric. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam to discuss if Trump coming to town forces state Republicans into a stalemate.  The three also look at Florida Governor Ron DeSantis officially jumping into the Presidential race, including the stalled launch on Twitter.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Florida is Georgia's neighbor, but according to the NAACP, the Sunshine State may not open the front door for everyone. The civil rights organization issued a formal travel advisory calling the state "openly hostile” to minorities and LGBTQ+ individuals. Plus, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms are both on a list of Americans banned from going to Russia. And the latest on Governor Brian Kemp's economic development trip to Israel in an effort to raise his profile and strengthen business ties with the country. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Governor Brian Kemp's re-election campaign manager is taking over a new GOP super PAC, "Committed to America." That's in support of former Vice President Mike Pence's possible bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civic Circle Director Saba Long, who is in for Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, weigh in. Plus, drama over Fulton County's Election Board. The League of Women Voters in Atlanta are opposing a move to nominate Republican Atlanta City Councilman Lee Morris to serve on the County's Election Board, and point out his support for the controversial Buckhead cityhood movement.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast, will gun control legislation be picked up by GOP state legislators in the aftermath of another mass shooting in Atlanta?  Republican Strategist Brian Robinson rehashes the issue with podcast veteran Atlanta Civic Circle director Saba Long, filling-in for Tharon Johnson. Plus, the far-right Georgia Republican Assembly is looking to block candidates who aren't conservative enough from running as a Republican. That could supposedly be considered at the upcoming Georgia GOP convention.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson sort through a new poll conducted by a GOP firm that has Florida Governor Ron DeSantis leading President Joe Biden in Georgia if the presidential race took place today. Live on Morning Edition, Brian and Tharon zero in on what this means for Republicans and Democrats since Desantis is not an official candidate running for president. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, news broke that Gov. Brian Kemp is skipping this summer's state Republican convention. Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson hash out what Kemp turning down the invitation means for the party.  Plus, President Joe Biden is officially seeking a second term in the 2024 election. In an announcement video Biden linked images from the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's edition of Political Breakfast, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Atlanta Civic Circle Executive Director Saba Long join Lisa Rayam to weigh-in on Governor Brian Kemp's latest interview with CNN.  Kemp recently made comments during a private Republican National Committee donor retreat in Nashville -- that his fellow Republicans need to leave any claims that the 2020 election was stolen, behind them. Plus, more woes at Fulton County's overcrowded jail, as Sheriff Pat Labat has accepted the resignations of several staff members. That follows an investigation into the case of a 35-year-old Black man, who was allegedly found dead there last year, in the psychiatric wing covered in bed bugs. His family alleges medical staff did little to help him. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast, Atlanta has lost its bid to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Chicago beat out finalists Atlanta and New York City.    Host Lisa Rayam asks Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson for their thoughts on why Atlanta missed out.    The Democratic National Committee tweeted that the Midwest is a critical Democratic stronghold, and Illinois is part of a 'Blue Wall,' which was crucial to the 2020 victory of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.   The Democratic Party of Georgia said in a statement that “The Peach State” will still be the center of the political universe in 2024 even without the convention. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With former President Donald Trump pleading "not guilty" to 34 criminal charges in New York, WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas catches up with Lawfare's Anna Bower, who has been reporting on Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis's case involving the former president. They talk about impacts the case in New York may have on Fulton County, where Willis's investigation stands now and next steps. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, it's a historic day as host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson follow Donald Trump surrendering to criminal charges in New York City.  The former president is pleading not guilty in a Manhattan courthouse to charges related to alleged 2016 hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Trump is the first former U.S. president to face criminal charges.  Scores of Trump supporters wearing MAGA hats rallied for Trump outside the courthouse. Controversial Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene joined them, shortly after her appearance on 60 Minutes.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With a wave of last-minute maneuvers and negotiations Sine Die came to a close at the capitol, ending the 2023 state legislative session. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss some of bills headed to the governor’s desk and those headed back to the drawing board See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam in a Sine Die roundup.   Scores of anticipated bills that our WABE reporters were following under the Gold Dome did not make it to the floor for a final vote before the General Assembly adjourned on Sine Die.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

March 29th marks the end of the 2023 Georgia legislative session which means lawmakers are almost out of time to get their bills passed. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss what hasn’t made much progress, like medical marijuana, what has already passed and big issues that remain on the table, like sports betting and the 2024 budget. Then, Rahul and Sam talk with Maya Prabhu, AJC government reporter, about what she’s watching as Sine Die approaches. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson are all back for the first week of spring and the final days of the legislative session under the Gold Dome.  Lawyers for former President Donald Trump are pushing the Fulton County prosecutors' office to throw out the special grand jury report that looked into alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Trump’s lawyers also want Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis disqualified from pursuing charges. Plus, Republicans came into this year's session with a handful of top priorities, including a plan to reign-in so-called "rogue prosecutors." Willis calls the sudden oversight push racist, as Georgians just elected more minority DAs to office in 2020 than ever before.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With fewer than two weeks left of the state legislative session, bills continue to make their way through the capitol. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas cover the return of sports betting, possible changes to the Hope scholarship and more.

'Cop City' protester's autopsy released, Holding out for sports betting, Bills that survived crossover day

As the dust settles from Crossover Day, WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas and Axios reporter Emma Hurt talk about the bills that passed and those that didn’t. Plus, WABE reporters Emily Wu Pearson and Chamain Cruz join for a discussion of the growing number of Asian American/Pacific Islander and Latino legislators under the Gold Dome. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's Political Breakfast, WABE’s Lisa Rayam along with the Atlanta Civic Circle’s Executive Director Saba Long and Gainesville's WDUN talk show host Martha Zoller hash out which bills still stand a chance at passing this legislative session under the Gold Dome.  Plus, the latest on the arrests from violent protests at the so-called Cop City site in South Dekalb County as dozens are charged with domestic terrorism.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Buckhead Cityhood and gambling to how teachers can talk with students about gender and sexuality, lawmakers were busy this week looking ahead to Crossover Day on Monday. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk about which bills have come up short of the deadline and which still have a chance of becoming law.

Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down the latest political headlines in and out of the Gold Dome.

Lawmakers have introduced bills that would put restrictions on the kind of care transgender kids can receive. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss those bills and an effort by the legislature to define antisemitism for use in the context of anti-discrimination and hate crime laws.

WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali take the show to Kennesaw State University to talk about the week in politics in front of a live audience. KSU professor Kerwin Swint provides a history on the changing political landscape of Georgia, plus state representative Rick Jasperse and state senator Sonya Halpern talk about their districts, being a legislator and some of the bills being considered this legislative session. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

State legislators are working on a measure to legalize sports betting -- including horse racing. With bipartisan support in the Georgia House and Senate, it might not be much of a gamble.

Crime was a big focus of lawmakers at the legislature this week. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas look at the possible resurrection of Buckhead cityhood as well as bills aimed to reduce crime. Then, WABE and Grist reporter Emily Jones goes over all things environmental, from mining near Okefenokee Swamp to electric vehicles and solar panels. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Political Breakfast, Georgia lawmakers condemn anti-Semitic flyers found scattered in several heavily-Jewish neighborhoods.

As the legislative session hits its stride hundreds of bills are being filed and the budget got a vote on the floor. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk about bail reform, crime and where the budget is headed. Plus, AP reporter Jeff Amy joins for a discussion about “hoteling” kids in Georgia’s foster care system and what the legislature might do to address the issue. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond shares the perspective of those residents who have mixed feelings about the proposed police training facility in their neighborhood.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution released polling numbers this week around popularity of politicians and issues of interest to Georgians. Our politics team of Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Susanna Capelouto talk about the results.

Violence at the proposed police training facility in South Dekalb County.

This week Governor Brian Kemp faced criticism for attending the World Economic Forum in Davos. The WABE politics team of Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas an Susanna Capelouto talk about the fallout.

King is frustrated that state and local leaders aren't doing enough to ensure her father's mission to eradicate poverty and racism comes to fruition.

This first week of the Georgia legislature included Governor Kemp's inauguration and big budget announcements.