On the Issues
Lower Taxes
Lowering taxes is not just about the once-a-year income tax. I believe we need to ensure that we are looking at the Total Tax Burden that Georgians face from the grocery store, to the gas pump, to their power bill, and in their schools
For too long we have allowed huge federal programs to determine the taxation policies and spending in our state. Decisions should be made, that are in the best interest for Georgians and not those that make sure the Federal Government is happy.
Sound Budgets
If our goal as republicans is to the have a smaller government and lower taxes; that must start by spending less. Lowering taxes without reducing spending and obligations is putting the cart before the horse.
I believe we can reduce the size of government and the amount of taxes collected by focusing on reducing spending and bureaucracy.
Public Safety
Our law enforcement officers have a calling to pursue a career that very few people are willing to do. They risk their lives to protect, serve, and save the lives of their neighbors. We ask them to do this incredibly difficult task, during events that many of our neighbors would describe as the worst day of their lives. And remain professionals int he midst of that.
That calling to service should be respected, honored and supported by all parts of government.
When we ask officers to enforce the ideas, policies, and laws that we pass, the real-world experiences they bring to the table should be respected. These experiences and knowledge should bear more weight than theoretical ideas from research groups or lobbyists.
Future Focus
Leaders should always have the long term in mind when considering any decision. We have lost that intense focus on personal responsibility and individualism that was such a defining part of the American identity.
As a father of five I care deeply about the legacy we leave our children, and the country they inherit.
Child Welfare
As a long time, Foster and Adoptive Parent, I have had the privilege to listen to the stories from countless other foster parents about the successes and shortcomings of DFCS and of the Juvenile justice system. It has become apparent that the current system has created a huge collection of negative motivations for private and public providers as well as the juvenile courts.
We have created a system that encourages long stays in Foster Care, and chases outcomes that have long been shown to be worse for children. Policies are determined by outdated studies from other states or worse by political motivations that are not evidence based. Many of the beneficial policies and laws that other lawmakers have worked so hard to get passed, are NOT being followed by the courts. This is resulting in a circle of trauma for our State’s most vulnerable children and families.
The system continues to ask/demand children give the adults around them more and more chances to get back on track, while requiring the children to pay for those chances with their childhood and future.
You only get to be four years old once.
Intentional Growth
It is the sacred duty of lawmakers to be laser focused on the long-term outcomes of their constituents. Not just the next budget, jobs report, or tax season.
As we continue to grow in Georgia, we need strong focus on building infrastructure and policy that has a 50 and 100 year plan in mind, not the next year, or the next election cycle.
