As a “naturalized” citizen of Georgia, I have never been prouder of my adopted state. Whatever happens going forward, the state has made great strides in stepping up and doing the right thing by all its citizens. The results of Tuesday’s election are a move to the center, the place where, in my opinion, American politics has always worked best. It portends well for the two-party system.
Recognizing that Georgia has a sordid history of voter repression and political foul play, I must say that from my first day here in 1968 I sensed that the Peach State was different from its “Deep South” neighbors. As a graduate student at the University of Georgia, the people I met in what I call the “Atlanta-Athens Axis” struck me as reasonable and progressive beyond the state’s historic reputation. Georgia has always been good to me, and for that I am most grateful.
I congratulate all Georgians and salute the Republican election officials who followed the dictates of their offices in running a fair and honest election, despite pressure to do otherwise. They stand as real profiles in courage in this case. I want to thank all of you who have worked diligently to bring this about; those of you who got out the vote, contributed to the cause and talked up the need to do the right thing. This has been a giant step for all Georgians