Houston Gaines
@houstongaines
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State Representative - House District 120. Go Dawgs! This is not an official state government account.
Athens, Georgia
Joined July 2009
Georgia should get credit for three wins tonight — 1. Texas, 2. Texas fans’ water bottles, 3. Referees. If you act like trash, the Dawgs will take you to the curb where you belong. Welcome to the SEC!. Go Dawgs!.
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HUGE news for Athens. Gov. Kemp just announced UGA will have its own medical school. Thanks to President Morehead, Gov. Kemp & so many others who made this happen. The funding process will begin in this year’s state budget—I look forward to supporting this historic initiative.
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The death penalty should be sought for Jose Ibarra. But Athens District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez has said she won’t seek the death penalty — and said she will “take into account collateral consequences to undocumented defendants”. I sincerely hope she reverses course.
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Not a bad backdrop for a swearing-in. Thank you to Gov. @BrianKempGA, @GAFirstLady, and Supreme Court Justice John Ellington for the honors. I’m ready to officially begin my third term in the House. Now let’s go win a football game!
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Deborah Gonzalez has been defeated — a great night for Clarke and Oconee counties! Time to restore common sense in the District Attorney’s office and hold criminals accountable. Congratulations, Kalki Yalamanchili!.
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Last night when given the opportunity to respond to murder of Laken Riley, Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Melissa Link said the following at the Mayor & Commission meeting —. "I am as disgusted by the crime as I am the hysterical glee with which so many have seized upon this.
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ICE confirmed yesterday what we already knew: Jose Ibarra was in the country illegally. He was also arrested in New York. What the media hasn’t reported was that he was cited in Athens for shoplifting in Oct—& there was a bench warrant for his arrest for failing to show for court
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It may be late at night, but I hope Georgia voters are watching. Democrats in the Georgia House just voted to kill a Constitutional Amendment to say that only U.S. citizens vote in our elections. Absolutely shameful.
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Final result. Thank you — I’m honored and humbled. Let’s get back to work!
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Thanks to campus and state law enforcement for their quick response to disperse those illegally trying to set up an antisemitic encampment on UGA’s campus.
University of Georgia campus police, backed up by Georgia State Patrol officers, led several protesters, including some confirmed UGA students, away in handcuffs.
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Last night, Athens Commissioner Melissa Link said of UGA football players: "a lot of them are out there raping and murdering". TWICE. These defamatory, outrageous comments attacking college athletes at UGA by a sitting Commissioner must be condemned.
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Thank you @MikeCollinsGA for delivering this bill to help keep Americans safe. Laken Riley should be alive today - & it's my prayer that this bill, what we've done at the state level, & the new administration's border policies will ensure what happened to her can't happen again.
House approves revised Laken Riley Act, sending first major legislative win to Trump’s desk
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We did it!. I simply want to say thank you. This has been a team effort, and I'll be forever grateful for the support you have given me & our family. Together, we have achieved much. But now the real work begins. I love this community, & I look forward to serving this district.
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Thanks to @BrianKempGA & the legislature suspending the gas tax, Georgia has the lowest average gas price per gallon IN THE COUNTRY right now →
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Here at Sanford Stadium with two DGDs awaiting the big celebration after watching the parade. GO DAWGS!
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I joined @FoxNews this morning to discuss the horrific murder of Laken Riley — and the many failures that contributed this tragedy. There is much work to do to fix policies at the local, state, and federal levels to make sure this never happens again.
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It's sad, but it's true: we have a gang problem in Athens. The senseless murder of a 3-year-old in a drive-by shooting last weekend marks the latest victim of gang violence in our community. Light on crime policies don't work. Our criminal justice system is at a breaking point.
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"Defunding the police" puts lives and communities at risk. That's why I sponsored legislation - now passed by the General Assembly - to stop local governments from slashing their police budgets.
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Praying for Apalachee High School and the entire Barrow County community. We are closely monitoring this emergency situation. Thank you to the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, GSP, GBI and all law enforcement officers and first responders on the scene.
I have directed all available state resources to respond to the incident at Apalachee High School and urge all Georgians to join my family in praying for the safety of those in our classrooms, both in Barrow County and across the state. (1/2).
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What a joke. Did Georgia Tech take over Peta's Twitter this week? Unbelievable. #GoDawgs.
HE LOOKS MISERABLE!. No dog deserves to be packed up, carted from state to state, and paraded in front of a stadium full of screaming fans. Animals are NOT mascots 👎 @UGAAthletics must retire Uga immediately! He should be at home with a loving family.
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David Ralston was an unbelievable leader. There was simply no one finer our state has ever seen. He was our Speaker — he helped guide Georgia through some tough times. He’s made our state a better, kinder place. And he’s made so many of us better human beings. (1/5)
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Jose Ibarra will rot in prison for the rest of his life— sentenced to life without parole. While this case was fortunately handed over to a competent prosecutor for the state, our local District Attorney made the choice to not pursue the death penalty. On Day 1 in office, she.
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Last week, I qualified to seek re-election. I’ll have opposition in November and will ask for your vote later this year. Right now, I’m focused on delivering on our priorities—holding district attorneys accountable, providing tax relief & passing needed immigration legislation.
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A child rapist that District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez let off due to "insufficient evidence" was just given a life sentence plus fifty years after 45 minutes of jury deliberations when a nearby DA got the case after Gonzalez violated the victim's rights.
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Today I was proud to present my first bill, HB 217, to help us chip away at the opioid crisis, reduce the spread of HIV & Hepatitis C, protect our first responders & save all Georgians healthcare costs. I'm thankful for strong bipartisan support to help us pass this measure.
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Great to meet @GregAbbott_TX and see @BrianKempGA in Austin last night. We also met Bevo and told him to stay away from Uga — Go Dawgs!
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Back under the Gold Dome—sworn in this morning & ready to start another term. Thank you for the honor of serving our community and state. Time to keep delivering for our district!
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UPDATE: We have two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Athens. All information contained below remains current and active.
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This afternoon, we will pass legislation to ensure local governments and sheriffs comply with our immigration laws — with stiff penalties for noncompliance. We can’t afford sanctuary policies to take root in our state. I just joined @FoxNews to discuss this bill — and the need
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Today the House gave final approval to legislation to establish the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission. This has been years in the making, & I'm glad citizens in this state will now have a mechanism to hold district attorneys who are not doing their jobs accountable.
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Reading and responding to constituent mail is an important part of the job. Even the few that come from folks like Gary, aka John Q Public. Time to get back to work for everyone in our district - even Gary.
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Gas under $3/gallon tonight in Athens. Thanks @BrianKempGA. I look forward to voting to ratify the gas tax suspension when we’re back in Session.
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A special morning as we officially named Broad St. and Lumpkin St. in downtown Athens the Vince Dooley Memorial Intersection in honor of one of the greatest Athenians in history.
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What a night 🇺🇸💪. Humbled and honored. Let’s get back to work!
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We won! I’m honored and humbled by the support — what an incredible team effort!. This election is a clear statement of unifying behind our message of getting things done, and I’m ready to keep working. Thank you for your support — we couldn’t have done this without you.
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Ran into a couple of Athens legends this afternoon - @BrianKempGA and @HerschelWalker! Go Dawgs! #keepchopping
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Yesterday, the grand jury indicted Jose Ibarra on ten counts, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault with intent to rape & multiple other charges. Jose Ibarra should've never been in this country - and never should've been in Athens.
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GREAT day as Gov. Kemp just signed legislation to deal with District Attorneys who aren’t doing their jobs — just like we’ve seen in our community. This new law will finally provide a mechanism for citizens to reign in rogue prosecutors and restore public safety.
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Go Dawgs! . My brother and I are ready to cheer ‘em on — time to beat the Tigers!
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First and foremost, our prayers tonight are with the family and loved ones of Laken Riley—the 22-year-old nursing student and UGA graduate whose life was senselessly cut short. This evening, there are many reports about the suspect that officials are working to confirm.
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Quite a headline in today's AJC! Sounds like Jim Crow 2.0 wasn't so bad. "A separate UGA poll released last week showed that 99% of voters reported no problems when voting in the general election, and just 4% reported having to wait more than 31 minutes to cast their ballots."
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Friday was a historic day at the @universityofga as we held the groundbreaking the Medical School Building. Thanks to leadership of President Morehead, Gov. Kemp & other campus and state leaders, UGA will soon have its own independent School of Medicine. I was honored to support
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Always good to have constituents from back home visit the Capitol! Go Dawgs!
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Great caucus lunch meeting today at Truist Park — & got to see the @Braves World Series Trophy. Looks great in person! Now let’s get the Dawgs a big trophy on Monday night!
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A huge turnout in Barrow County today for a rally in support of Israel. It was great to be with @IsraelAtlanta Consulate General Anat Sultan-Dadon & so many others standing behind our ally as it faces unspeakable evil from radical terrorists. Our community stands with Israel 🇮🇱🇺🇸
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Had a couple of friends from Athens come by the Capitol today!
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Jose Ibarra is a monster—a truly sick person who should’ve never been in this country or our community. Laken Riley should be alive today. She was failed over & over again at all levels. The trial further highlighted that fact. Our continued prayers for the Riley family and all.
Jose Ibarra found guilty on all counts related to the killing of Laken Riley.
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What an incredible honor this morning to host and recognize five heroes — Kaitlyn Iannace, Clarke Jones, Jane McArdle, Molly McCollum and Eleanor Cart — at the Capitol. These UGA freshmen jumped into water to save a mother and her two children whose vehicle had gone off the road
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Met my opponent today at the polling place — never know who you’ll see when you go vote. We’re out waving signs trying to get more folks to the polls. Go vote!
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Tonight the House & Senate gave final passage to a commonsense bill to rein in rogue DAs who aren’t doing their jobs. Families suffer when inept & hyper-partisan DAs—like in our community—refuse to uphold the law. With @GovKemp’s signature, we’ll have a mechanism to address it.
The Georgia Senate just voted to approve this measure, sending it to Gov. Kemp's desk. He's expected to sign it. #gapol
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Thank you @GBI_GA, @accpolice and all law enforcement partners for their work. Of the issues I’ve taken on in the legislature, I’ll be most proud of the Coleman-Baker Act that has helped bring us to this moment. While we can never bring Tara back, justice will be served.
After 23 years, an Athens man has been charged with murder by the GBI and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department for the death of Tara Louise Baker, a 23-year-old UGA law school student. READ MORE:
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Great debate watch party last night hosted by @KLoeffler and her husband, Jeff — a historic evening. Enjoyed visiting with @DougBurgum, @marcorubio, @votetimscott, @RealBenCarson & many other incredible leaders 🇺🇸
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I’m sick to my stomach knowing her death could have been avoided—but tonight, I want to thank the local law enforcement officers who acted swiftly to apprehend the perpetrator. I ask everyone to join me in lifting up Laken’s loved ones—and the entire UGA family—in prayer.
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As the Jose Ibarra murder trial continues here in Athens, more & more details emerge about the horrific attack against Laken Riley - a young woman with such an incredible future ahead. Our prayers remain with the Riley family, her friends, and the entire UGA community. Ibarra
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Honored to be re-elected by House Republicans to continue serving in leadership alongside @JonBurnsGA, @JanJonesGA & the rest of our team. Last week, @GaHouseGOP had a decisive victory at the ballot box—a testament to the work of each member in our Caucus. I'm confident House.
Congrats to our leadership team! Speaker Jon Burns and Pro Tem Jan Jones were renominated for their roles. Leader Chuck Efstration, Whip James Burchett, Caucus Chair Bruce Williamson, Vice Chair Houston Gaines, and Treasurer Ginny Ehrhart were also re-elected to their positions.
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The entire narrative was written weeks ago - before anyone even knew what was in the bill. At least Sen. Warnock admitted it.
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The Laken Riley Act will keep Americans safe & ensure what happened to Laken can’t happen again. It’s hard to believe 159 Democrats voted against the bill but glad to see bipartisan support-hope it gets a unanimous vote in the Senate. Thanks to @RepMikeCollins for leading on this.
NEW: The House has passed the Laken Riley Act w/ bipartisan support. What does it do?. It mandates that illegal aliens who are arrested/charged/convicted of theft crimes must be detained, & it gives state AGs the ability to sue for relief if DHS actions harm state residents.
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Awesome to be with so many state and national leaders at the RNC this week in Milwaukee — our party is unified and fired up to win big in November! @BrianKempGA, @GAFirstLady, @SarahHuckabee, @GlennYoungkin, @KLoeffler
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Happy Easter! Today we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We are so blessed. Last weekend three generations of the Gaines family visited the Governor’s Mansion for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. This Easter Sunday, we have the entire Gaines family
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What'll ya have? Hard to beat a lunch at the Varsity — and with some great company! @MikeCollinsGA
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The news overnight here in New Orleans is heartbreaking and shocking. Our prayers are with the victims and their families. As we continue to learn more about this tragedy, we know there are many from our community who are in the city for the Sugar Bowl — stay safe & stay alert.
We are horrified and saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day in New Orleans. University personnel are working to determine if any UGA students, faculty, staff, alumni or fans were among the victims. We offer our deepest.
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Go Dawgs!.
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Great to be in Jacksonville for a big Georgia win. I’m pleased to report that our resident Florida fan Rep. Todd Jones (@turntotodd) lost our friendly wager & will be wearing a UGA tie on a day of his choice in the upcoming Session. In the Georgia House, we cheer for the Dawgs!
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What a night at Foley Field! Go Dawgs!.
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It just wouldn't be #UGA football if we didn't let them make it a little more interesting. Continually taking years off my life.
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Four years ago, I helped bring voting to UGA's campus. I'll never forget the work that went into making it happen - a bipartisan effort to help our community. As State Rep, I've continued this sort of bipartisan partnership, and I know we have more to do. #gapol.
We are pleased to announce that Stegeman Coliseum at the University of Georgia has been approved by state and local officials to serve as an early voting site on the UGA campus. Social distancing protocols will be followed in this large, indoor venue.
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Unacceptable. Un-American. Those responsible for violence must be arrested and prosecuted. I'm praying for our law enforcement on the front lines. And tonight let us all pray for our nation.
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Heroes rushing straight into danger — thank you to law enforcement and first responders for putting their lives on the line to protect the public.
Wow. These cops on Bourbon Street went flying on foot when the call came in.
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Good to join @BrianKempGA, @GAFirstLady and other @GaHouseGOP members this morning to support Reps. Deborah Silcox, Matt Reeves, and Scott Hilton & challengers Elvia Davila and Sandy Donatucci. It’s critical we win these seats and maintain the Republican Majority in the House.
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Harrison was such an incredibly kind person. I’ll always cherish getting to know Harrison as a fraternity brother, a rising political star &, most importantly, a friend. Prayers for the Deal family, the Kemp’s, Team Loeffler and all who loved & knew Harrison.
Statement from the Kemp Family on the Passing of Harrison Deal:
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Honored to join @GAFirstLady and @GovKemp in the fight against human trafficking and grateful for their dedication to this issue. I'm proud to have introduced on Monday our legislation that will be a part of our efforts to combat this evil industry. #gapol.
On Monday, Rep. @houstongaines introduced an important anti-human trafficking bill. It will allow @GeorgiaDDS to revoke a person’s CDL license if he/she is convicted of trafficking & used the commercial motor vehicle to commit the offense. Thanks for your dedication! #gapol
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Thank you, @IvankaTrump, for your leadership on this important issue! Looking forward to getting this legislation passed and supporting women and families across Georgia. #gapol.
I appreciate the leadership of Speaker David Ralston, State Rep. Houston Gaines, & their colleagues in championing paid family leave in GA!. With more women working today than ever before, we have a historic opportunity to enact long overdue reforms like HB 1094. Thank you! #PFL.
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Sen. Isakson was an outstanding Georgian who served with incredible distinction. Georgia is a better place thanks to Johnny. God bless his family, friends & loved ones. May we all live by Sen. Isakson’s motto-“There are two types of people in this world: friends & future friends”.
RIP, senator: Johnny Isakson, Georgia politician respected by both sides of the aisle, has died. #gapol
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Last week in the State House, we passed a balanced budget AND cut $140 million in taxes for families - both with overwhelming bipartisan support. I think D.C. could learn a thing or two from Georgia.
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Consequences of an incompetent District Attorney—a gang member commits burglary just HOURS after being acquitted of armed robbery (one of three jury trials DA Deborah Gonzalez’s office lost just last week). Criminals know they have free rein with Gonzalez.
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Incredibly sad - Bruce was a great leader & great Georgian. He served our state with distinction for years, including as he bravely fought cancer over the past year. Our prayers are with Bruce's family & friends and the entire GDOL team 🙏.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson. Today, we mourn the loss of a fighter, a leader, and a true servant of the people.
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Example #1 of why the @GaHouseGOP passed legislation last week to increase penalties for rioting and burning police cars. We won’t support these lawless criminals trying to tear apart our capital city. God bless our law enforcement on the front lines.
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Happy Mother’s Day to all of the moms in our community — especially to my incredible mom and number one supporter, Vicki! We couldn't do it without your love and support.
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If he’s not fit to run, he’s not fit to be President. He should resign immediately.
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We continue to see our legal system weaponized - in this case by a conflicted judge and a politically motivated prosecutor determined to achieve a preordained outcome. The American people will deliver the ultimate verdict on Nov. 5 - and those cheering today's ruling will see.
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Great day for Georgia families and students! Thank you @JonBurnsGA, @JanJonesGA, @turntotodd and so many others who worked tirelessly to get this important bill over the finish line.
SB 233 the Georgia Promise Scholarship Act has passed the House. We are going to empower our parents to make the best educational decisions for their children and give them the tools to succeed for generations to come!
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Nothing like the day before an election. Hit a couple of events this morning in Athens, did our Election Day Eve routine shooting a few rounds at the gun range with Rep. Wiedower and Sheriff Hale—then to Atlanta to deliver the prayer for JD Vance’s rally. Now back at home hitting
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Great news for the rule of law in our state.
Just in: A judge refused to block a new Georgia law that created a state commission that can discipline or remove state prosecutors accused of failing to fulfill their legal duties.
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Anyone who is "rooting" against #UGA next season to prove some point is a sorry excuse for a Bulldog fan.
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The question isn't whether Biden should be the nominee. He shouldn't be the President right now. I can't imagine what China, North Korea, and Russia are thinking after tonight with this guy at the helm for the next seven months.
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On Tuesday, @GovKemp signed into law HB 217 - my first bill - to help us chip away at the opioid crisis, reduce the spread of HIV & Hepatitis C, protect our first responders & save all Georgians health care costs. HB 217 is a commonsense solution that will save lives and money.
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Happy Father's Day to all the fathers in our community - especially to my dad and my role model, Joe!
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Such sad news from campus. Praying for the families impacted — and the entire student body and UGA community 🙏.
An update from UGA senior leadership regarding recent events and class cancellation.
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Just over one year ago today — a moment I’ll never forget: the Coleman-Baker Act signed into law. God bless Tara Baker and the Baker family.
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