Two-Party Georgia Oral History Project

Descriptive Summary
Title: Two-Party Georgia Oral History Project
Creator: Ellett, Ashton
Inclusive Dates: 2017 - ongoing
Language(s): English
Extent: 115 interview(s)
Collection Number: RBRL425TPGA
Repository: Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies

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Collection Description

Historical note

Dr. Ashton Ellett is the creator and principal interviewer for this project. His dissertation research focused on the development of the Republican Party in Georgia since World War II. The oral history project continues the scope of this research focus, with a more contemporary view of bipartisan party politics. Dr. Katie Schank and Seth Clark are also interviewers for this project.

Scope and Content

The Two-Party Georgia Oral History Project documents how the Georgia Republican Party grew from a small grassroots party during an era of Democratic dominance into the state's premiere political organization and governing party over the course of the late-twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Interview participants represent current and former Republican and Democratic political figures who were active contributors or commenters on this transformation between 1952-2016, with a primary focus on the years post-1974.The collection documents the personal experiences and insights of the candidates, officeholders, activists, organizers, strategists, and analysts who participated in those key campaigns, intraparty conflicts, policy debates, and legislative battles. It also documents the accounts of the journalists and scholars who have chronicled these activities and achievements.

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Administrative Information

Preferred citation

Two-Party Georgia Oral History Project, Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies, University of Georgia Libraries, Athens, Georgia, 30602-1641.

Copyright Information

Resources may be used under the guidelines described by the U.S. Copyright Office in Section 107, Title 17, United States Code (Fair use). Parties interested in production or commercial use of the resources should contact the Russell Library for a fee schedule.

Finding Aid Publication

Finding aid prepared on: 2017.

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Related Materials and Subjects

Subject Terms

Related Collections in this Repository

Reflections on Georgia Politics Oral History Collection

Georgia Republican Party Records

Democratic Party of Georgia Records

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Series Descriptions and Folder Listing

 

TPGA-001 Eric Tanenblatt

1 interview(s) 83 minutes

Eric J. Tanenblatt was born in 1966 in Long Island, New York. He graduated from Emory University with a degree in economics. He immediately started as a campaign worker for George H.W. Bush and organized college campuses. There, he met and worked with Senator Paul Coverdell. When Bush was elected President, Tanenblatt moved to Washington, D.C. to work in the administration. He served as a special assistant to Secretary Louis Sullivan in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He was then appointed director of Intergovernmental Affairs at the Peace Corps, serving as the liaison to the White House. In 1992, he directed Paul Coverdell's senate campaign, and served as his state director in Georgia. In 1998, he served as vice chairman of Coverdell's reelection campaign. In 2000, he served as chairman of George W. Bush's presidential campaign in Georgia. After Bush's election, Tanenblatt joined the law firm of McKenna, Long & Aldridge. In 2001, he left to serve as Governor Sonny Perdue's chief of staff. In 2004, he served as finance chairman for Perdue's reelection campaign. He then returned to his law practice, where he focused his work on governmental affairs. President Bush appointed him to the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. He is the founder of Hands on Georgia, a program dedicated to promoting volunteerism.

TPGA-001 Eric Tanenblatt video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-002 Frank Barron

1 interview(s) 84 minutes

W. Frank Barron Papers

W. Frank Barron was born in Rome, Georgia, and he graduated from Darlington School in 1948. In 1952, he graduated from Washington and Lee and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving on the USS Eversole DD789. Barron began his career at the Rome Coca-Cola Bottling Company in 1956, later retiring as an officer and director of seven local Coca-Cola Bottling Companies (Rome, Dalton, Cedartown, Fort Valley, Carrollton, Valdosta, and Cartersville). He married Anne West, in 1957, and they have two children and five grandchildren.

Throughout his life Barron has been heavily engaged in civic activities. He served as president of the Rome Rotary Club, Rome Area Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Baptist Foundation, and Georgia Chamber of Commerce; on the board of directors for Coosa County Club, Boys' Club, Redmont Park Hospital, National Soft Drink Association, Century Bank of Bartow County, and First Union National Bank of Rome; and as a member of the Governor's Human Relations Commission, Governor's Growth Strategy Commission, and Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education Teaching and Learning Task Force.

TPGA-002 Frank Barron video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-003 Brian Robinson

1 interview(s) 100 minutes

TPGA-003 Brian Robinson video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-004 Tom Crawford

1 interview(s) 67 minutes

Tom Crawford was born in Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from Clarkston High School in DeKalb County, Georgia in 1968. As a journalism student at the University of Georgia, Crawford worked at the student-led newspaper, The Red & Black, rising to rank of sports editor. He graduated with honors in 1972 and began his professional career as a beat reporter at the Alabama  state capitol for the The Montgomery Advertiser. From 1972 to 1983, Crawford worked as a copy editor for The Atlanta Constitution (1972-1973); a beat reporter covering local, county, and state government for The Marietta Daily Journal (1973-1975); and as a reporter for The Atlanta Journal (1975-1983) covering the county courthouse, Atlanta city hall, and the Georgia state capitol and General Assembly. Crawford's political reporting during this period included the 1978 and 1982 governor races, 1980 U.S. Senate race, 1981 Atlanta mayoral election, and numerous other congressional, state, and local elections. Crawford stepped away from reporting in 1983 and assumed an accounts executive position at Pringle Dixon Pringle, a public relations agency in Atlanta. He was also an occassional speechwriter during the 1980s and 1990s. In 2000, Crawford launched the online news website Capitol Impact--later known as The Georgia Report--which provided news coverage of policial events at the state capitol and across Georgia until 2018. Tom Crawford died on July 18, 2018 after a decades-long battle with cancer.

Tom Crawford Papers

TPGA-004 Tom Crawford video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-005 Buddy Darden

1 interview(s) 102 minutes

George W. (Buddy) Darden Papers

George Washington "Buddy" Darden was born in Sparta, Georgia. He attended North Georgia College, and earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia in 1965. He was selected to serve in Senator Richard B. Russell's patronage program in Washington, D.C. He received his law degree from the University of Georgia Law School in 1967, and served as assistant district attorney in Cobb County from 1968 to 1972, when he was elected district attorney. In 1980, he was elected as a Democrat to the Georgia House of Representatives, and served on the Judiciary Committee. After the death of U.S. Representative Larry McDonald, Darden won the special election to take his seat in 1983. In congress, he served on several committees, including the House Armed Services, Ethics, and Appropriations. In 1994, he lost his reelection bid, and unsuccessfully campaigned for congress in 2002. He served under Governor Roy Barnes as chairman of the Judicial Nominating Commission. Since 1995, he has been with the law firm McKenna, Long & Aldridge. President Clinton appointed him to the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. After Clinton left office, Darden began doing work for the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, traveling to various countries including Indonesia and Senegal. Darden has also represented Georgia's interests in the water disputes with Alabama  and Florida.

TPGA-005 Buddy Darden video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-006 Fred Cooper

1 interview(s) 115 minutes

TPGA-006 Fred Cooper video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-007 Rusty Paul

1 interview(s) 119 minutes

Rusty Paul discusses his early exposure to politics while growing up in civil rights-era Alabama  and his involvement in Republican politics after moving to Georgia, including creating a statewide Republican Party newspaper. Paul recalls the political dynamics surrounding the 1980 elections, including the election of Mack Mattingly to the U.S. Senate and the Ronald Reagan's presidential win. He talks about his decision to turn down a position in the Reagan Administration to instead focus on local campaigns. Paul also discusses working on Jack Kemp's unsuccessful 1988 presidential campaign, and later returning to Georgia to run for Republican Party Chairman. As chairman, Paul focused on effective candidate recruitment and campaign management, with a focus on bolstering campaigns in rural areas outside of metro Atlanta. Paul reflects on the polarization of politics on the local, state, and national levels and gives his predictions for the 2018 and 2020 elections.

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-121 Rusty Paul; Subseries F. Rusty Paul in the Georgia Republican Party Records

Rusty Paul grew up in the Birmingham, Alabama  area during the 1950s and 60s. He has worked in journalism as a newspaper and radio reporter, chaired the Republican Party in Georgia (1995-1999), served as a city councilman in Stone Mountain (1077-1983) and Sandy Springs (2014-present), and served as a state senator in the Georgia General Assembly (2001-2003).

TPGA-007 Rusty Paul video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-008 Trey Hood III

1 interview(s) 69 minutes

Dr. Hood is a professor of political science in the University of Georgia's School of Public and International Affairs. He also serves as the director of SPIA Survey Research Center—a nationally recognized polling operation with a primary focus on the policy priorities and political attitudes of Georgia residents. He is also the author of The Rational Southerner: Black Mobilization, Republican Growth, and the Partisan Transformation of the American South.

TPGA-008 Trey Hood III video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-009 Bob Irvin

1 interview(s) 112 minutes

Bob Irvin grew up in rural North Fulton County in the 1950s and 1960s. He was elected as a Republican to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1972. He attended Harvard Business School, after which he came back to Georgia politics and was reelected to the Georgia Assembly in 1994 where he served as House Minority Leader. Irvin ran in the Georgia Senate Republican primary in 2002 against Saxby Chambliss. In this interview, Irvin talks about the growth of the Republican Party in Georgia since the 1970s, mentions the emergence of the Christian Right as a more conservative group in the Republican Party, and talks about the challenges to the Republican Party when it was a minority versus majority party.

TPGA-009 Bob Irvin video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-010 Arthur (Skin) Edge IV

1 interview(s) 82 minutes

Arthur (Skin) Edge IV is a former state senator representing the 28th senatorial district of Coweta, Pike, and Spalding counties. In 1993, Edge was appointed as chairman of the Senate Special Judiciary Committee as a Republican in a Democratic legislature. He served as Senate Minority Leader from 1992-1996, working alongside his counterpart Bob Irvin in the Georgia House of Representatives. In 1996, Edge retired from politics, and he currently works as a principal consultant with the GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group, specializing in governmental relations and consulting.

TPGA-010 Arthur (Skin) Edge IV video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-011 Jim Galloway

1 interview(s) 108 minutes

He talks about the relationship of media to politics, how political reporting has changed since he entered the business, and comments on the role that technology has played in news reporting. He comments on factors for success of an elected official in Georgia and discusses his observations of the growth of the Repubilcan Party since the 1970s from a minority to a majority in Georgia. He compares priorities and divisions within the Republican and Democratic parties in Georgia.

Jim Galloway is the lead political writer for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, author of the AJC's Political Insider blog, and frequent contributor to Georgia Public Broadcasting's "Political Rewind" radio show.

TPGA-011 Jim Galloway video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-012 Jane Kidd

1 interview(s) 115 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-108 Jane Kidd

Jane Kidd is the daughter of former Georgia Governor Ernest Vandiver and his wife, Betty Vandiver. She is a graduate of Grady College at the University of Georgia and became politically active on the Lavonia City Council as well as managing the successful U.S. congressional race for Democrat Don Johnson in 1992. She served as Johnson's district director from 1993 to 1995. Kidd was elected to the 115th District in the Georgia State House of Representatives in 2004, and was elected as chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Georgia in 2007 where she managed Democratic turnout in the 2008 and 2010 election cycles.

TPGA-012 Jane Kidd video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-013 Bob Barr

1 interview(s) 103 minutes

Bob Barr grew up in California. He graduated from Georgetown Law School in 1977 and worked for the CIA from 1971-1978. He moved to Georgia to pursue a law practice and became involved in Republican party politics in Cobb County in the 1980s, where he eventually served as Cobb County Party Chairman. He was appointed as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia in 1986 and left that position in 1990 to serve as president of the Southeastern Legal Foundation. Barr competed in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate in 1992 against Paul Coverdell and John Knox. In 1994, he won the seat for the 7th District of the U.S. House of Representatives. Over time, Barr became interested in Libertarian politics and won the Libertarian Party's presidential nomination in 2008.

TPGA-013 Bob Barr video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-014 John Padgett

1 interview(s) 86 minutes

John Padgett grew up as a Republican in Athens and has served in various roles in local and state party politics, including as Chairman of the Athens-Clarke County Republican Party, as Chairman of the 11th and 12th Congressional District Republican Party and as Secretary of the Georgia Republican Party. In 2013, Padgett ran a campaign for state party chair against B.J. Van Gundy and Alex Johnson on the platform of reenergizing grassroots politics, increasing fundraising efforts, bridging divides within the party and recruiting more conservative candidates.

TPGA-014 John Padgett video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-015 John Linder

1 interview(s) 108 minutes

John Linder grew up in Minnesota and served in the U.S. Air Force from 1967-1969. He moved to Georgia to pursue a dentistry practice, and he settled in North DeKalb County where he became involved in Georgia Republican Party politics in the 1970s. Linder was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1976 as a Republican in a Democratic majority legislature. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for Congress in the Fourth District in 1990 and subsequently was elected to Congress in 1992 against Democratic opponent Cathy Steinberg. Linder retired from Congress when he did not seek reelection in 2012.

TPGA-015 John Linder video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-016 Bob Bell

1 interview(s) 102 minutes

Subseries A. Bob Bell in the Georgia Republican Party Records

Bob Bell grew up in Atlanta in the 1930s-1940s. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950-1952 and received his Bachelors of Business Administration from the University of Georgia's Atlanta Division in 1954. Bell ran as a Republican for the Georgia House of Representatives in 1968 in District 73, Post 1 in DeKalb County, at a time when there were multimember districts. Subsequently, Bell won election to the Fifth District in the Georgia Senate, where he served as the Minority Whip. In 1982, he ran as a Republican nominee for governor. Bell succeeded Fred Cooper as chairman of the Republican Party in Georgia from 1983-1985.

TPGA-016 Bob Bell video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-017 Robert Shaw

1 interview(s) 128 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-118 Robert Shaw

Robert (Bob) J. Shaw was raised in Bronwood, Georgia and attended the Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University before enlisting in the Air Force in 1950. Shaw served as the Chairman of the Development Authority of Fulton County as well as being an active member in the Republican Party of Georgia. He unsuccessfully ran for State Senate in 1964 against Horace Ward. Shaw was elected as the First Vice Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party, and stepped into the role of chairman after the resignation of the chairman in 1971, and he served three subsequent terms as party chairman.

TPGA-017 Robert Shaw video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-018 Eric Johnson

1 interview(s) 90 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-166 Eric Johnson; Eric Johnson Papers

Eric Johnson was born in New Orleans, and moved to Savannah, Georgia with his wife. He studied architecture and has worked as a principal architect at Hussey, Gay, Bell and Deyoung International, as well as at North Point Real Estate. Johnson became involved in Republican politics through aiding Jack Kingston's campaign for the Georgia House of Represenatives, and later aiding Mack Mattingly's U.S. Senate campaigns in 1980 and 1986, including serving as Mattingly's regional director. Johnson was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives as a Republican in 1992, and after one term, gave up his seat to run for the state Senate, where he served until 2009, when he ran as a candidate in the Georgia gubernatorial race. Johnson served as Minority Leader from 1998 to 2003, and in 2003, following party switching and a new Republican majority in the General Assembly, Johnson was elected Senate President Pro Tempore. After retiring as an elected official, Johnson returned to his architecture business and was appointed to the Georgia Department of Economic Development's Board of Directors.

TPGA-018 Eric Johnson video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-019 Billy Lovett

1 interview(s) 50 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-145 Billy Lovett; Subseries E. Billy Lovett in the Georgia Republican Party Records

Billy Lovett grew up in Dublin, Georgia in Laurens County. Lovett is a former Laurens County Commissioner and later served on the State Public Service Commission beginning the 1970s. In 1982, he ran as an unsuccessful campaign for governor and returned to the Public Service Commission, where he also served as its chairman. In the 1984, Lovett switched his affiliation to the Republican Party while in office, citing reasons of being limited in his capacity to make change within the Democratic Party political structure. Lovett ran an unsuccessful race for Insurance Commissioner in 1990, and subsequently was elected the chairman of the Georgia Republican Party at the recommendation of party leaders. In addition to politics, Lovett is a businessman and entrepreneur based in Atlanta, Georgia.

TPGA-019 Billy Lovett video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-020 Jay Morgan

1 interview(s) 141 minutes

Jay Morgan grew up in Talbotton, Georgia in Talbot County and attended the University of Georgia in the early 1980s. Morgan was a regional finance director for the Republican National Committee before becoming the executive director for the Georgia Republican Party in 1984, the youngest person to serve in that role. As executive director, Morgan oversaw the state party's efforts to reelect Mack Mattingly to his U.S. Senate seat during the 1986 election cycle. Morgan has additionally worked on Johnny Isakson's gubernatorial campaign in 1990 and later as chief of staff to Congressman Mac Collins. Aside from politics, Morgan has worked as a lobbyist, as Senior Vice President at Edington, Wade, and Sanders, and later establishing his own firm, JL Morgan Company.

TPGA-020 Jay Morgan video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-021 Alec Poitevint

1 interview(s) 78 minutes

Subseries D. Alec Poitevint in the Georgia Republican Party Records

Alec Poitevint grew up in Bainbridge, Georgia in Decatur County and attended the University of Georgia in the mid-to-late 1960s. Poitevint became chairman of the Decatur County Republican Party in 1975 and was later selected as Vice Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party where he served from 1977-1979. In 1981, Poitevint became Chairman of the Second Congressional District Committee and continued to be involved in the burgeoning Republican party politics at state and national levels. He was a member of Vice President George Bush's presidential campaign in 1988. In 1989, Poitevint succeeded John Stuckey as chairman of the Georgia Republican Party after a contested race requiring four rounds of voting. As chairman, Poitevint oversaw the redistricting plan undertaken by the General Assembly in 1991. Later, he was a Republican National Committeeman from Georgia from 1993 to 2001.

TPGA-021 Alec Poitevint video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-022 John Stuckey

1 interview(s) 88 minutes

Subseries C. John Stuckey in the Georgia Republican Party Records

John Stuckey grew up in rural Louisiana and served five years in the military, primarily organizing military intelligence at the Pentagon. He attended Louisiana State University and obtained his J.D. from George Washington University. Stuckey became involved in Republican politics when employed by the Republican National Committee while in law school. He worked as an aide on Richard Nixon's presidential campaign and managed Bill Brock's congressional campaigns in 1966 and 1968, later serving as Brock's chief of staff from 1971-1977. Stuckey moved to Georgia to start a career in law in 1977. In Georgia, Stuckey became the Coweta County Republican Party Chairman and later the congressional district chairman. He also served as Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party from 1987-1989. During his tenure as chairman, he had to respond to the emergence of the conservative Christian Right bloc within the Republican Party. Aside from politics, Stuckey owns his own law firm, John Stuckey & Associates LLC.

TPGA-022 John Stuckey video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-023 Roy Barnes

1 interview(s) 68 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-008 Roy Barnes

Roy Barnes grew up in rural Cobb County, Georgia in the 1950s-1960s. Barnes grew up in a Republican family but became affiliated with the Democratic Party. He graduated from the University of Georgia Law School in 1972, after which he moved back to Cobb County to work as an Assistant District Attorney. In 1974, Barnes was elected to the Georgia Senate. In 1990, Barnes ran an unsuccessful campaign for governor of Georgia, losing to Lieutenant Governor Zell Miller in the Democratic primary. From 1992 to 1998, Barnes served in the Georgia House of Representatives, and then ran for governor again, this time successfully. He served one term as governor from 1999-2003, during which time, he oversaw the push for changing the Confederate symbolism on the Georgia state flag. Following his unsuccessful bid for reelection, Barnes returned to his legal career at the Barnes Law Group in Marietta, Georgia.

TPGA-023 Roy Barnes video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-024 Guy Millner

1 interview(s) 110 minutes

Guy Millner grew up in Holly Hill, Florida and attended Florida State University. Miller moved to Atlanta for business reasons, and focused on growing his Norrell Corporation, a supplemental staffing business, during the 1960s and 1970s. Millner became involved in politics by working as the chief fundraiser on Mack Mattingly's 1980 and 1986 U.S. Senate campaigns. Millner also worked on Paul Coverdell's 1992 U.S. Senate campaign, and in 1994 and 1998, Millner ran two unsuccessful campaigns for governor--winning the Republican primary but losing in the general election. Millner is also the Chairman and CEO of AssuranceAmerica Corporation.

TPGA-024 Guy Milner video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-025 Saxby Chambliss

1 interview(s) 92 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-019 Saxby Chambliss

Saxby Chambliss moved around the southeast growing up, due to his father being an Episcopal priest. He attended the University of Georgia in the mid-1960s, obtained his J.D. from the University of Tennessee, and moved back to south Georgia after finishing law school. A Democrat, he was recruited by the Georgia Republican Party to run as a Republican for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992 and 1994 races, the second of which he won. He served in the U.S. Congress from 1995-2003, and then was elected for two terms as U.S. Senator from 2003-2015. Chambliss was a member of the Gang of Six, a bipartisan group of six Senators consisting of three Democrats and three Republicans.

TPGA-025 Saxby Chambliss video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-026 Joyce Stevens

1 interview(s) 74 minutes

Joyce Carter Stevens was raised in south Georgia. She served as Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at Del-Cook Lumber Company from 1964-1981. Stevens' first major involvement with the Republican Party was in fundraising for Mack Mattingly's 1980 U.S. Senate race, which led to her organizing the Cook County Republican Party and becoming involved with the highest members of the party. She was selected to serve as Executive Director of the Georgia Republican Party from 1981 to 1983, during which time her main focus was on growing the party's fundraising budget. Stevens was the first female candidate on the general election ballot in Georgia when she ran for a position on the Public Service Commission in 1984. She is president of The Stevens Group in metro Atlanta.

TPGA-026 Joyce Stevens video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-027 Steve Anthony

1 interview(s) 143 minutes

Steve Anthony was raised in a political family in Bremen, Georgia and attended the University of West Georgia. He worked as an aide for several state legislators and their committees, and later was the Chief of Staff for Speaker of the House, Tom Murphy. Anthony served as chairman of the Cobb County Democratic Party in the early 1980s and later as Executive Director of the state party in the late 1990s.

TPGA-027 Steve Anthony video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-028 Bobby Kahn

1 interview(s) 105 minutes

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-084 Bobby Kahn

Bobby Kahn is a Democratic political strategist from Savannah, Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia Law School and afterwards worked as a trial lawyer in Atlanta. He served as Chief of Staff for Governor Roy Barnes from 1999 to 2003. He later was elected as chairman of the Democratic Party of Georgia, serving one term from 2004 to 2007. Kahn also owns LUC Media, a marketing and advertising firm based in Marietta, Georgia.

TPGA-028 Bobby Kahn video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-029 Chuck Clay

1 interview(s) 172 minutes

Chuck Clay is from a military family and moved frequently growing up. He attended the University of North Carolina, and obtained his law degree from the University of Georgia Law School. He moved to Marietta, Georgia in the 1970s for work and became involved in the minority Republican Party in Cobb County at a time when the Republican Party in Georgia was beginning to grow. Clay was Assistant District Attorney in Cobb County, and in 1986, he was elected as the first Republican county commissioner from West Cobb. Clay was elected to the Georgia Senate to represent the 37th District in 1988 and later was selected as Senate Minority Leader. Clay ran for chairman of the Republican Party in 1999 and served one term from 1999-2001.

TPGA-029 Chuck Clay video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-030 Oscar Persons

1 interview(s) 98 minutes

Oscar Persons talks about his first interests in Republican politics in the 1960s, recalling in particular Barry Goldwater's presidential run in 1964 and Bo Callaway's 1966 gubernatorial run. Persons then describes how the Republican Party grew in the 1970s and 1980s, highlighting the internal divisions the party suffered during this growth. He then talks about smaller Republican victories in the 1990s and how they led to statewide victories in the 2000s.

Oscar Persons was born in McCormack, South Carolina but moved to small towns around the South with his father, a missionary Baptist preacher. He spent his high school years in Columbus, Georgia, and studied engineering at Georgia Tech. After graduating in 1960, he served in the United States Navy's Seventh Fleet for several years. Returning to Georgia, Persons was employed by Southern Bell as an engineer and moved to Atlanta. He graduated from Emory University's Law School in 1967. Persons joined the Atlanta Young Republicans, working his way up to become the organization's president. Persons served as the general counsel for the Georgia Republican Party from 1971-1992. He was also the chairman in Georgia for Bob Dole's presidential campaigns in 1988 and 1996.

TPGA-030 Oscar Persons video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-031 Frank Strickland

1 interview(s) 89 minutes

Frank Strickland talks about his early life and becoming interested in Republican politics in 1966 due to Bo Callaway's run for governor that year. Strickland afterward describes what occurred as the Republican Party grew in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly the infighting in the party as it incorporated the Christian right. Strickland then discusses the two Voting Rights Act cases he litigated--Miller v. Johnson and Larios v. Cox andShelby County v. Holder. He then talks about redistricting more broadly, outside the context of civil rights litigation.

Frank Strickland was born in Washington, D.C. to a strongly Republican family, but moved to Decatur, Georgia in the first grade. He attended Vanderbilt University, and after graduating, he briefly served in the United States Coast Guard and afterwards worked for Citizens & Southern National Bank. Strickland simultaneously attended Emory University's night school law program and earned his degree in 1967. Strickland became involved in Republican politics shortly afterwards, campaigning for Republican presidential candidates and for Republicans in local races, namely for Paul Coverdell's state senate races. He became first vice chairman of the Georgia Republican Party in 1983, and became assistant general counsel for the party two years later. Strickland became general counsel to the party in 1992, serving until 1995, when he created his own law practice Strickland, Brockington and Lewis, where he remains as a partner.

TPGA-031 Frank Strickland video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-032 Charles S. Bullock III

1 interview(s) 110 minutes

Charles Bullock explains how he became interested in southern politics and then talks about the patterns that make southern politics distinctive, particularly in the areas of partisan realignment and demographic voting patterns. He then discusses the role the Voting Rights Act played in shaping southern politics, emphasizing the Supreme Court cases that dealt with redistricting and the Voting Rights Act. He then talks about the core constituents and the key problems facing Democrats and Republicans in Georgia. He concludes by predicting what Georgia politics will look like in 2018 and beyond.

Charles Bullock was born in Missouri, but moved to Georgia at the age of six. He earned his doctoral degree from Washington University in 1968. He immediately began working at the University of Georgia, researching congressional politics, legislative process, and southern politics. He was distinguished as a University Professor by the University of Georgia in 2015 and continues to teach as the Richard B. Russell Chair of Political Science.

TPGA-032 Charles S. Bullock III video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-033 Charlie Harman

1 interview(s) 116 minutes

Harman discusses his early life, focusing on the events that became the foundation of his political views. He then talks about joining Sam Nunn's senate staff and working his way up the ranks to become Nunn's chief of staff. Harman also talks about Nunn's personality and role in the U.S. Senate. Harman then details the viewpoints the Georgia Chamber of Commerce forwarded while he was the organization's president. Harman talk about his tenure as chief of staff for Senators Zell Miller and Saxby Chambliss. Harman next describes how Republican governance in Georgia differs from Democratic governance, as well as the weaknesses both parties are struggling with in Georgia. He concludes by predicting the effects Donald Trump could have on politics, both in Georgia and nationally.

Charlie Harman grew up in Atlanta in the 1950s and 1960s. He attended the University of Georgia, from which he graduated with a B.A. in business in 1971. During this time, he interned at Richard B. Russell's senate office in Washington, D.C., which jumpstarted Harman's lifelong love of politics. Harman first joined Senator Sam Nunn's staff as a caseworker in 1980, getting promoted to be Nunn's chief of staff in 1987. Harman left Nunn's office in 1992 to become the president of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, leaving that position in 1996 to become the head of Blue Cross Blue Shield's government affairs. Harman briefly served as Zell Miller's transitional chief of staff in 2000 when Miller was appointed as U.S. Senator. Harman left Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2006 to join Saxby Chambliss's Senate office as chief of staff, holding that position until 2013.

TPGA-033 Charlie Harman video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-034 S. Jarvin Levison

1 interview(s) 123 minutes

In this interview, Levison discusses his early life in Georgia and his decision to enlist in the military. He talks about going to college and law school at Emory University and his legal career in tax law. Levison then describes his early involvement in Republican politics in the 1950s and the 1960s, as the Georgia Republican Party started to rise to prominence. He then tells of the internal strife in the party that Barry Goldwater's 1964 candidacy brought, splitting the party between moderates and conservatives. He then recalls the near-success of Bo Callaway in the 1966 gubernatorial election and Richard Nixon's successful presidential run in 1968. Levison then comments on Rodney Cook and Paul Coverdell, two figures who were instrumental in building the Republican Party in the 1970s and 1980s. Levison ends by discussing the Republican Party since it has become dominant in Georgia, contrasting it with Democratic governance, as well as predicting what effects Donald Trump will have on the party.

S. Jarvin Levison was born in Bristol, Virginia in 1927, but his family had to relocate to Macon and then to Atlanta, Georgia to follow his father's job opportunities. Levison graduated from Boys' High in 1945 and enlisted in the air division of the U.S. Navy. Levison attended undergrad and law school at Emory and graduated in 1951.. Levison worked in several law offices over the next several decades and became involved with Republican politics through Randolph Thrower. Levison became involved in the party structure as an "Eisenhower Republican", becoming the Fifth District party chairman.

TPGA-034 S. Jarvin Levison video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-035 Edward Lindsey

1 interview(s) 89 minutes

Lindsey discusses his early life in Atlanta, witnessing the Civil Rights movement firsthand, and details his legal career. Lindsey outlines his involvement with political campaigns in the early 2000s prior to his successful run for the Georgia House in 2004. He then lists the issues he tackled during his 9-year tenure in the legislature, such as transportation and redistricting, including those he had to manage as the House's majority whip. Lindsey then discusses his unsuccessful run for the 5th Congressional district in 2014. He concludes by commenting on the politics of division he has witnessed since 2014 and his hopes on the future of Georgia politics.

Edward Lindsey, Jr., was born and raised in Atlanta and attended Davidson College in North Carolina to study history in 1981. Lindsey then returned to Georgia to attend the University of Georgia School of Law. He began a private legal practice in Toccoa, Georgia in 1987, and then created the firm Godman McGuffey Lindsey & Johnson in 1990 after returning to Atlanta. He ran for the state senate in 2000 to represent the area around Buckhead, losing to Rusty Paul in the Republican primary. He then ran for the state house in 2004, successfully winning the 54th House district. He remained in that seat until 2014, when he unsuccessfully ran for the 5th Congressional district. Since then, Linsey has worked as a partner for Dentons' Public Policy and Regulation Division.

TPGA-035 Edward Lindsey video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-036 Larry Walker, Jr.

1 interview(s) 58 minutes

Walker discusses his background and childhood, and talks about running for the Georgia House at Sam Nunn's behest in 1972, winning as a Democrat. He tells of his first few terms in the legislature and his leadership role in the House. Walker describes more tangential topics that affected his tenure in the House, including the economic plans of various governors and the urban-rural divide in Georgia. He discusses cooperating with House Republicans, explaining how he believed they grew into a viable force in Georgia politics. Walker moves on to his service outside of the legislature, joining the Georgia Department of Transportation board in 2007 and the University System of Georgia Board of Regents in 2009. He concludes by talking about the future of Georgia politics, which he believes will become much more competitive as Republicans move further to the right and leave moderate voters for the Democrats.

Larry Walker, Jr. was born to a family in the agriculture business in Perry, Georgia, where he has remained his whole life. Walker attended the University of Georgia for both his undergraduate and law degrees, receiving a BBA in 1964 and a J.D. the following year. He returned to Perry to work as a municipal court judge, staying in that position until becoming the city attorney for Perry, which he worked as for eight years. In 1972, Walker ran for Sam Nunn's seat in the Georgia House of Representatives after the former vacated it to run for the United State Senate. Walker won and joined the Georgia House in 1973, where he remained until his retirement in 2005. During that time, Walker worked his way to become the floor leader for Governors Joe Frank Harris and Zell Miller. Walker also became the House majority leader in 1986, holding that seat until his retirement.

TPGA-036 Larry Walker Jr. video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-037 Mark Burkhalter

1 interview(s) 78 minutes

Burkhalter talks about his early life and how he became politically active. Burkhalter then discusses returning to north Fulton County to work in the real estate business and explains why he ran for the Georgia House of Representatives in 1992 and how he ran a successful campaign. Burkhalter covers the major issues he worked on in the Georgia House, and he talks about how the Republicans were able to become the majority party in the early 2000s. Burkhalter gives his reasons as to why the Republican Party remained relatively dormant in Georgia and how the parties have changed since Republicans took over Georgia government.

Mark Burkhalter was born and raised in Alpharetta, Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia and simultaneously interned with Newt Gingrich's congressional office in Washington, D.C in 1981. After graduation, he worked in Gingrich's office for 3 years before leaving in 1984 to work on Pat Swindall's congressional campaign. Afterward, he returned to north Fulton County, Georgia to work in the real estate and land development business. After much friction with the Fulton County government in this line of work, Burkhalter opted to run for an open Georgia House of Representatives seat in 1992. Burkhalter worked his way up through the ranks of the Republican minority, becoming Sonny Perdue's floor leader after Perdue's election as governor is 2002. Burkhalter became the speaker pro tempore in 2005, staying in that position until 2010 and retiring from the House altogether in 2011.

TPGA-037 Mark Burkhalter video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-038 Ralph Reed, Jr.

1 interview(s) 140 minutes

Reed discusses his childhood and describes how he became involved in politics. Reed discusses meeting Pat Robertson in 1989 and being coaxed into writing a memo explaining how to organize evangelical voters. Reed explains that the memo earned him the job as executive director of the Christian coalition. Reed summarizes the tensions in Georgia during the 1990s between the social conservative wing of the Republican Party and the "establishment" Republican wing, epitomized in the 1992 Senate race. Reed then talks about being elected state party chairman for the Georgia Republican Party, detailing his involvement the 2002 gubernatorial and Senate campaigns. Reed concludes by describing the difficulties Republicans face as the governing party of Georgia and the effects Donald Trump may have on the Republican Party.

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-129 Ralph Reed

Reed was born to a military family in 1961. His family moved to Toccoa, Georgia during his teenage years and after graduating, Reed attended the University of Georgia. In 1980, he interned with the lieutenant governor Zell Miller's office and was elected chairman of the University's College Republicans. He graduated in 1985 and attended Emory University for his doctoral degree in history. During that time, he organized and managed Students for America. While finishing up his dissertation in 1989, Reed met Pat Robertson, who offered Reed a job as executive director of the Christian Coalition. Reed accepted and remained in the position until 1997. He campaigned for both of George W. Bush's presidential campaigns and served as the chairman of the Georgia Republican Party from 2001 to 2003.

TPGA-038 Ralph Reed Jr. video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-039 Mack Mattingly

1 interview(s) 87 minutes

Mattingly begins by discussing his early life in Indiana during the Great Depression and World War II. He then talks about his service in the United States Air Force and why he decided to move permanently to Georgia afterward. Mattingly then covers his early political involvements and discusses his tenure as the Georgia Republican Party's state chairman. Mattingly talks about running for the United States Senate in 1980 and his victory over Herman Talmadge. He also discusses his goal of fiscal conservatism while serving on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Mattingly next talks about his unsuccessful reelection bid in 1986 and why he stayed out of public office for so long, until his unsuccessful attempt in 2000 to fill the Senate vacancy left by Paul Coverdell's death. Mattingly concludes by explaining his support for Donald Trump and what he sees as the weaknesses of the modern Republican Party.

Mack Mattingly was born in Anderson, Indiana in 1931. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Air Force and was stationed at a Strategic Air Command base in Savannah, Georgia. After four years of service, Mattingly studied at Indiana University, graduating with a degree in business. He then moved back to South Georgia and lived on St. Simon's Island. Mattingly first became politically active during the 1964 presidential race, in which he chaired Barry Goldwater's campaign in Georgia's first congressional district. Mattingly was then elected the state party chairman for the Georgia Republican Party in 1975, serving for two years. Mattingly ran for the United States Senate in 1980, winning an upset victory over Democratic incumbent Herman Talmadge. Mattingly lost his reelection effort in 1986 to Democrat Wyche Fowler and only sought office again in 2000, running and losing the special election for the Senate seat after Paul Coverdell's death.

TPGA-039 Mack Mattingly video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-040 Bill Nigut

1 interview(s) 89 minutes

Nigut discusses his early life in Chicago and his entrance to political journalism through covering Chicago politics. He then talks about moving to Atlanta to work as a reporter for WSB-TV and the bonds he formed with political figures throughout his career. He comments on how Georgia politics has changed over the time he has covered it and discusses the divisions within both parties as well as the potential paths to success for Democrats. Nigut closes by talking about how many of the largest issues in Georgia politics, such as education and transportation, are not necessarily divided by partisanship as they are by geography, between the issues affecting rural Georgians and those affecting urban Georgians.

Bill Nigut was born and raised in Skokie, Illinois. Nigut moved to Atlanta to work as a reporter for WSB-TV in 1983 and became the station's full-time political correspondent until 2003. He then became CEO of the Metro-Atlanta Arts and Culture Coalition until 2007, when he became the southeast regional director for the Anti-Defamation League. Nigut returned to journalism in 2013, when he joined Georgia Public Broadcasting as a senior executive producer.

TPGA-040 Bill Nigut video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-041 Chip Lake

1 interview(s) 87 mintues

Lake talks about his childhood and early fascination with politics. Lake recalls moving up the ranks among Republican campaigns. Lake then turns to modern subjects, predicting that the 2018 election will be a wave election in favor of the Democrats and that those effects will trickle down into Georgia's statewide and local races. He comments that Donald Trump's election in 2016 highlighted the demographic problem the Republicans have, as college-educated voters turned away from Trump and the Republican Party en masse that year. Lake then explains the reasons he believes both political parties have an increasing "anti-establishment" sentiment within them. Lake closes by discussing the impact the 2021 redistricting will have on Georgia politics and how the Democrats are well-mobilized in preparation for the 2018 election while many Republican incumbents are retiring instead of fighting for another term.

Chip Lake was born in Texas and moved to Kennesaw, Georgia at a young age. Lake went to college at Auburn University and interned for Rusty Paul's office in Atlanta. After graduation, Lake began working on larger campaigns, first for Steve Forbes's 2000 presidential campaign and then Rick Lazio's run for New York's U.S. Senate seat that same year. Afterward, Lake returned to Georgia to work in the offices of a number of Republican state legislatures before joining Phil Gingrey's congressional campaign as a general consultant in 2002. After Lynn Westmoreland's own congressional victory in 2004, Lake became Westmoreland's chief of staff, where he remained until 2011. Since then, Lake has become a consultant for Glendale Strategies and campaign marketing for Twin Oaks Connect, while doing occasion sports commentary via podcasts.

TPGA-041 Chip Lake video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-042 Roy Barnes and Bob Irvin

1 interview(s) 103 minutes

Barnes and Irvin begin by talking about their early involvement in politics and why they chose to seek elected office. They then discuss their time in the legislature, the focus on national politics during that time, and the history of the Republican Party's stance on racial issues. They then discuss governance in Georgia, including what makes a governor effective and the budgeting process. Irvin and Barnes comment on the diminishing power of rural Georgia in the state's political process. They next talk about what issues may have bipartisan support in Georgia and how the parties may return to debating political issues civilly. They conclude the interview by discussing transportation issues in Georgia and their potential solutions.

Bob Irvin grew up in rural North Fulton County in the 1960s and was elected as a Republican to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1972. He left the legislature to attend Harvard Business School. Irvin returned to Georgia politics and was reelected to the Georgia Assembly in 1994 where he served as House Minority Leader until 2002, when he left the House to run unsuccessfully for the United States Senate. Roy Barnes grew up in rural Cobb County, Georgia in the 1950s and 1960s. He graduated from the University of Georgia Law School in 1972, after which he moved back to Cobb County to work as an assistant district attorney. In 1974, Barnes was elected to the Georgia Senate. In 1990, Barnes ran an unsuccessful campaign for governor of Georgia. From 1992 to 1998, Barnes served in the Georgia House of Representatives, and then ran for governor again, this time successfully. He served one term as governor from 1999-2003, during which time, he oversaw the push for changing the Confederate symbolism on the Georgia state flag.

TPGA-042 Roy Barnes and Bob Irvin video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-043 J. Randy Evans

1 interview(s) 92 minutes

Evans begins the interview by talking about his childhood and early involvement with politics. Evans then discusses the plans and factors of growing the Georgia Republican Party. He specifically talks about party organization and how that process has changed compared to today. Evans explains why religious social conservatives began flocking to the Republican Party in the 1980s and how organizations such as GOPAC mobilized conservative voters and popularized conservative political philosophies. Evans discusses how Republicans adapted themselves to becoming the governing party. Evans concludes by discussing the realigning effects Donald Trump has had on the party, both positive and negative, though he notes that it is difficult to make long-term political predictions due to the dynamic nature of politics and the electorate.

Randy Evans grew up in Dublin, Georgia during the 1960s and 1970s. While going to school at West Georgia College, Evans met Newt Gingrich as a professor, who introduced him to politics. Evans volunteered for Gingrich's victorious 1978 congressional campaign. After briefly working as a staffer for Gingrich, Evans returned to Georgia to obtain his law degree from the University of Georgia. Afterward, he became the chairman of the Douglas County Republican Party, and was promoted to party chairman of the 6th congressional district in 1986. He chaired Newt Gingrich's 1988 and 1990 congressional reelection campaigns and served as general counsel for Gingrich when he became Speaker of the House in 1995. In 2001, Ralph Reed appointed Evans to become the state Republican Party's general counsel and also appointed him to the Georgia state board of elections. Evans was nominated by Donald Trump in 2017 to become the U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg; Evans's nomination was confirmed by the Senate in 2018.

TPGA-043 J. Randy Evans video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-044 Gordon Giffin

1 interview(s) 113 minutes

Giffin begins by discussing his early life in Canada before returning to the United States for his higher education. He talks about first interning for Sam Nunn's office while in law school then permanently joining Nunn's staff as chief legal counsel and legislative director. Giffin then details his involvement with other matters of national Democratic politics and gives particular focus to his work on the selection committee for the 1988 Democratic National Convention. Giffin next talks about his work on Bill Clinton's presidential campaigns, and explains how he became Clinton's ambassador to Canada in 1996. Giffin concludes by discussing Michelle Nunn's candidacy for Senate in 2014 and Hillary Clinton's presidential run in 2016, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each and how a future Democrat may capitalize on those strengths to put the Democratic Party of Georgia back in power.

Gordon Giffin was born in Springfield, Massachusetts but spent the rest of his childhood growing up in Canada. Giffin returned to the United States to receive his undergraduate education at Duke University, followed by Emory University Law School in 1971 for his legal education. In his final year of law school, he interned for U.S. Senator Sam Nunn. Giffin joined Nunn's staff full-time in January 1975, when Giffin became Nunn's chief legal counsel and legislative director. After 1979, Giffin left to join private practice law firms while simultaneously working for Nunn's reelection campaigns. In 1992, Giffin chaired Bill Clinton's presidential campaign in Georgia, a connection which allowed Giffin to become the United States ambassador to Canada in 1997. Leaving the position in 2001, Giffin retreated from politics to focus on law practice until he chaired Michelle Nunn's senate campaign in 2014.

TPGA-044 Gordon Giffin video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-045 Matt Towery

1 interview(s) 124 minutes

Towery begins by discussing his early life, education, and experience growing up in Metro Atlanta. He talks about his early political experience as a page for Governor Lester Maddox, a Democrat, as well as relationships with Mack Mattingly, Newt Gingrich, and other Georgia Republicans. Towery explains how he became active in the Georgia Republican Party during the 1980s, especially his role in Campaign for Georgia's Future. His unsuccessful campaign for lieutenant governor in 1990 as well as his time in the Georgia House of Representatives is covered. He also discusses his transition from elective office into writing, publishing, polling, and work at InsiderAdvantage. Towery assesses Georgia political history, including the impact of the 2018 elections on the prospects of the Democratic and Republican parties in Georgia during the latter part of the interview.

Matthew Allen (Matt) Towery was born in Atlanta on December 6, 1959. He attended the University of Georgia and graduated from Cambridge University and Stetson University College of Law. Towery ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for Lieutenant Governor in 1990 before serving two terms representing Cobb County in the Georgia House of Representatives. Towery left elective office in 1997. Towery is co-founder, along with former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Pierre Howard, of InsiderAdvantage/Internet News. Towery served as CEO of InsiderAdvantage and publisher of James Magazine until 2014, and he remains chairman. An author, nationally syndicated columnist, political analyst, and pollster, Towery has published multiple books and his work has appeared in news outlets across the country. He is currently chairman of the Government Affairs and Public Policy Practice and of counsel at Hall, Booth, Smith, P.C. in Atlanta. Towery resides in Atlanta and St. Petersburg, Florida.

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-089 Matt Towery

TPGA-045 Matt Towery video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-046 George Hooks

1 interview(s) 66 minutes

Hooks discusses growing up in South Georgia, attending Auburn University, and his early political career. He talks about his first political campaign as well as serving under Speaker Tom Murphy in the Georgia House of Representatives. Hooks moves on to his time in Georgia State Senate, where he served from 1991 until 2013. He discusses efforts to change the Georgia state flag and the state's transition from Democratic to Republican control in the early 2000s. He also gives his thoughts on Governor Zell Miller, who had recently died. The latter portion of the interview includes Hooks's analysis of Georgia political history, challenges facing rural Georgia, and future of two-party competition in the state.

George Hooks was born May 9, 1945 in Sumter County, Georgia. He graduated from Auburn University and holds an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Mercer University. Hooks won election to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1980 and served as Assistant Floor leader for Governor Joe Frank Harris. He served five terms in the house before winning election to the Georgia State Senate in 1990. Hooks served as chair of Rules and Appropriations committees and sat on several others including the Senate-House Budgetary Responsibility Committee, the Senate-House Legislative Services Committee, and the Reapportionment Committee. Hooks was the Dean of the Georgia State Senate when he retired in 2013. Hooks has operated Tommy Hooks Agency, an insurance and real estate company, in Americus and worked as a government affairs consultant with RTA Strategy in Roswell.

TPGA-046 George Hooks video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-047 Tharon Johnson

1 interview(s) 69 minutes

Johnson starts by discussing his time growing up in Athens and attending college in Atlanta. He talks about working in Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell's Office for Community Affairs and experience working for Georgia Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond. Johnson highlights his experience on the campaigns and staffs of U.S. representatives John Barrow and John Lewis, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, and President Barack Obama. He provides his thoughts on Governor Zell Miller, who had recently died. He discusses the 2018 Georgia gubernatorial contest, assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the Democratic and Republican candidates. The interview closes with Johnson's thoughts on Georgia political history, recent political contests, the future of the Democratic and Republican parties in Georgia as well as Governor Nathan Deal's legacy.

Tharon Johnson was born in Atlanta and grew up in Athens. He attended Clark Atlanta University where played football and graduated in 2001. Johnson began his political career working in Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell's Office for Community Affairs during while at Clark Atlanta. An experienced campaign manager and staffer, Johnson has worked for former Georgia Secretary of Labor Michael Thurmond, U.S. Representative John Barrow, U.S. Representative John Lewis, and Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. Johnson also served as Southern Regional Director for President Barack Obama's 2012 reelection campaign. A government affairs and public relations specialist, Johnson has worked for several firms including Piedmont Public Affairs, McKenna, Long & Aldridge (Now Dentons), and Greenberg Traurig. He is founder and CEO of Paramount Consulting Group and resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-047 Tharon Johnson video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-048 Blake Aued

1 interview(s) 90 minutes

Aued begins by talking about his childhood growing up in Atlanta and Birmingham, Alabama . The conversation moves to his time at the University of Mississippi and decision to pursue a career in journalism. He talks about his early career as a reporter and staff writer covering politics and news for the Athens Banner-Herald and Flagpole. Aued assesses the role of media in politics. Aued discusses the nature and character of Georgia political history and analyzes the impact of recent elections and forecasts the 2018 election in Georgia. Considerable time is devoted to local Athens politics, especially the growing progressive element in Athens-Clarke County.

Blake Aued was born in Kentucky and grew up in Alpharetta and Birmingham, Alabama . He attended the University of Mississippi, graduating with a degree in journalism. Aued worked at the Daily Tribune News in Cartersville, Georgia, before becoming a staff writer at the Athens Banner-Herald in 2005. Aued is currently news editor for Flagpole Magazine in Athens where he writes the weekly "City Dope" column. He is also a regular contributor to WUGA's Athens News Matters with Alexia Ridley. Aued resides in Athens.

TPGA-048 Blake Aued video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-048 Blake Aued audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-049 Lorie J. Smith

1 interview(s) 83 minutes

Smith starts by recounting her upbringing in Atlanta and education at the University of Georgia. She talks about her early experience in Democratic politics working for U.S. representatives Ronald (Bo) Ginn and Elliott Levitas. She later worked in various roles on several Democratic campaigns in Georgia including Wyche Fowler's 1986 U.S. Senate campaign and President Bill Clinton's 1992 and 1996 campaigns. Smith gives her thoughts on Governor Zell Miller, who had recently died. She discusses her political consulting and governmental affairs work. The interview closes with Smith's thoughts on Georgia political history, the 2016 presidential election, and the future direction of the Democratic and Republican parties going into the 2018 midterm elections.

Lorie J. Smith was born in Atlanta. She attended the University of Georgia and Georgia State University before entering Democratic politics. Smith has worked, campaigned, and consulted for prominent Georgia Democrats such as former U.S. representatives Buddy Darden, C. Don Johnson, Wyche Fowler, Bo Ginn, and Elliot Levitas. She also worked on Bill Clinton's 1992 and 1996 presidential campaigns in Georgia. At the state level, Smith worked for the Democratic Party of Georgia and in the administrations of Zell Miller and Roy Barnes. Smith is founder and principal at Parrish, Smith Associates and resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-049 Lorie J. Smith video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-049 Lorie J. Smith audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-050 Al Scott

1 interview(s) 88 minutes

Scott discusses his childhood growing up in Savannah, serving in the U.S. Army, and attending Armstrong State University. He talks about his time in the Georgia House of Representatives, including his impressions of Speaker Tom Murphy and major legislation passed. Scott also recounts his decision to run for the Georgia State Senate and his subsequent work in the upper house, including legislation related to the Plant Vogtle. He talks about his unsuccessful campaign for Public Service Commission in 1992 and experience serving as Georgia Commissioner of Labor, the state's first African-American constitutional officer. He recounts his decision to reenter politics and his time as Chatham County Commission Chair. During the latter portion of the interview, Scott offers his take on Georgia political history, the short- and long-term effects of the 2016 presidential election, and the possible impact of the forthcoming 2018 midterm elections.

Albert J. (Al) Scott was born and raised in rural Effingham County before moving to Savannah when he was five years old. He graduated from Savannah's historic Alfred E. Beach High School and Armstrong State University (now part of Georgia Southern University). Scott, a Democrat, served in the Georgia House of Representatives from 1977 until 1982 and the Georgia State Senate from 1983 until 1991. After an unsuccessful campaign for Public Service Commissioner, Governor Zell Miller appointed Scott Georgia Labor Commissioner in 1991—the first African American to hold a constitutional office in Georgia. David Poythress defeated Scott in the 1992 Democratic primary for Labor Commissioner. Governor Roy Barnes appointed Scott to the Georgia State Board of Education in 2001. He won election as Chatham County Commission Chair in 2012 and ran unsuccessfully in 2020 for Chatham County Tax Commissioner. A retired manager at the Union Camp and International Paper, Scott resides in Savannah.

TPGA-050 Al Scott video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-050 Al Scott audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-051 John Watson

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

Watson discusses growing up in northern Virginia, attending Wake Forest University, and moving to Atlanta to pursue a career in Republican politics. He talks about his time on Bob Barr's 1994 congressional campaign and working for Rusty Paul at the Georgia Republican Party. Watson explains his role in and thoughts on the 2002 gubernatorial election as well as his tenure as Governor Sonny Perdue's chief of staff. He explains why he decided to run for chair of the Georgia Republican Party as well as the state of the party organization he inherited in 2017. The interview closes with Watson's views on Georgia political history and his assessment of both major political parties and their prospects in upcoming elections.

John Watson grew up in Centreville in Fairfax County, Virginia, and attended college at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Watson moved to Atlanta in 1993. He worked on Bob Barr's successful 1994 congressional and joined the Georgia Republican Party as finance director in 1995. Watson joined Republican Sonny Perdue's 2002 gubernatorial campaign as chief consultant after first working on former Cobb County Commission Chair Bill Byrne's unsuccessful gubernatorial bid. He became Governor Sonny Perdue's chief of staff in 2003 and resigned in 2006. Watson remained active in Nathan Deal and David Perdue's campaigns before becoming the Georgia Republican Party chairman in 2017. He declined to seek a second term and stepped down in 2019. Watson is currently partner at Impact Public Affairs (formerly Massey, Watson & Hembree) in Atlanta.

TPGA-051 John Watson video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-051 John Watson audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-052 Tom Price

1 interview(s) 90 minutes

The interview begins with Price talking about his youth and education in Michigan before turning to his move to Georgia following medical school. He describes Atlanta and its suburbs and talks about becoming politically active in the 1980s. Price discusses his first campaign and time in the Georgia State Senate. Among the topics covered are redistricting and his relationship with Lieutenant Governors Pierre Howard and Mark Taylor. Price talks about the Republicans taking power in 2002 and his work as Georgia State Senate Majority Leader. He reviews the creation of Sandy Springs in considerable detail, his successful 2004 congressional campaign, and his career in the United States House of Representatives. Price briefly discusses his tenure as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services in the Trump administration. The interview closes with Price's assessment of Georgia political history, President Donald Trump's political impact, and the trajectory of the state's two-party system.

Born on October 8, 1954 in Lansing, Michigan, Tom Price grew up in Dearborn, Michigan, and graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. An orthopedic surgeon, Price moved to Atlanta in 1979 when he began a surgical internship and residency at Emory University Hospital. Price relocated to Roswell in 1984. Following the retirement of Republican Sallie Newbill in 1996, Price won a seat in the Georgia State Senate. He became the Republican Senate Minority Whip in 1998 and Senate Majority Leader in 2002. He won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2004. Representative Price chaired the House Republican Policy Committee from 2011 to 2013 and the House Budget Committee from 2015 until February 2017 when he was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services. He is married to Betty Price, a former member of the Georgia House of Representatives. Price resides in Roswell.

TPGA-052 Tom Price video on YouTube Access Online

 

TPGA-053 DuBose Porter

1 interview(s) 76 minutes

Porter begins by discussing his childhood and upbringing in Dublin, Georgia. He talks about his time at Davidson College, experience as an intern in Senator Sam Nunn's office, and education at Samford University Law School. Porter explains his decision to enter politics in 1982 and career in the Georgia House of Representatives, including his rationale for challenging Tom Murphy for the speakership in 1992. Porter reflects on major pieces of legislation enacted during his time in the legislature, including the HOPE Scholarship. He talks about his time as House Minority Leader, 2010 gubernatorial campaign, and his tenure as Chair of Democratic Party of Georgia. Porter gives his thoughts on the 2016 presidential election and the upcoming 2018 midterm elections in Georgia. The interview closes with Porter's thoughts on Georgia political history including the parties' strengths, weaknesses, and prospects.

DuBose Porter was born October 2, 1953, in Dublin, Georgia. He attended Davidson College and received a bachelor's degree in English. He interned in Washington, D.C., with Senator Sam Nunn before attending the Cumberland Law School at Samford University. He returned to Dublin where he founded the Nelson & Porter law firm. Porter, a Democrat, ran successfully for a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives in 1982. In 1987, Porter and Griffin Lovett bought Dublin's daily newspaper, the Courier Herald. He and Lovett went on to purchase various other papers including the Soperton News, Johnson Journal, and Baldwin Bulletin. He served as Governor Zell Miller's administration floor leader in the Georgia House from 1991 until 1992. He was elected speaker pro tempore in 2003 and House Minority Leader in 2005. Porter ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 2010. He served as the Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia from 2013 to 2019. Porter is currently president and CEO of the Dublin Courier-Herald Publishing Company and resides in Dublin.

Reflections on Georgia Politics ROGP-057 DuBose Porter

TPGA-053 DuBose Porter video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-053 DuBose Porter audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-054 Jerry Keen

1 interview(s) 94 minutes

Keen starts by discussing his childhood, education, and early career. The interview turns to his interest in politics and work with the Christian Coalition of Georgia and the Georgia Republican Party. He reflects on Steve Forbes's unsuccessful 2000 presidential campaign. Keen talks about his experience campaigning for and serving in the Georgia House of Representatives, including transitioning from the minority party to majority status in 2005. He recalls major legislative achievements, including the incorporation of Sandy Springs and his decision to retire in 2010. Keen closes by analyzing Georgia's political past and its potential future.

Jerry Keen was born and raised in metro Atlanta. Keen attended Mercer University in Macon and Oglethorpe University in Atlanta. He has worked as a financial management professional. A past Chair of the Georgia Christian Coalition and Director of Georgia Parents for Educational Freedom, Keen won a seat representing St. Simons Island and Glynn County in the Georgia House of Representatives in 2000. He became the Republican House Majority Leader in 2005. Keen resigned his seat in 2010 when he became senior consultant of strategic development at Troutman Sanders Strategies in Atlanta. Since 2018, Keen has served as President and CEO of Joe Tanner & Associates, an Atlanta-based governmental affairs, communications, and business consulting firm. He resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-054 Jerry Keen audio on SoundCloud Access Online

TPGA-054 Jerry Keen video on YouTube Access Online

 

TPGA-056 David Worley

1 interview(s) 98 minutes

Worley discusses his childhood and upbringing in the Atlanta area as well as his education and experience at Harvard University. He talks about his early interest in politics and work for U.S. representatives Dawson Mathis and Elliott Levitas. Worley reflects on his education, law career, and relationship with organized labor in Georgia. A large portion of the interview is devoted to Worley's three congressional campaigns between 1988 and 1992, especially his 1990 campaign against U.S. Representative Newt Gingrich. He reviews his term as Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia and subsequent work with the party. Worley closes the interview with an assessment of how the Democratic and Republican parties have changed over the last several decades. He analyzes the consequences of the 2016 presidential election on the state's politics and offers thoughts on the forthcoming 2018 midterm elections.

Keen starts by discussing his childhood, education, and early career. The interview turns to his interest in politics and work with the Christian Coalition of Georgia and the Georgia Republican Party. He reflects on Steve Forbes's unsuccessful 2000 presidential campaign. Keen talks about his experience campaigning for and serving in the Georgia House of Representatives, including transitioning from the minority party to majority status in 2005. He recalls major legislative achievements, including the incorporation of Sandy Springs and his decision to retire in 2010. Keen closes by analyzing Georgia's political past and its potential future.

TPGA-056 David Worley video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-057 Bryan Long

1 interview(s) 98 minutes

Long begins by talking about his early life and education. He discusses his journalism career at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, CNN, and the Atlanta Business Chronicle as well as his brief stint in advertising. The bulk of the interview is devoted to Long's founding and administration of Better Georgia. He reflects on his decision to step away from Better Georgia and work at Southern Majority. He assesses the current state of Georgia's two-party system as well as the major parties' strengths and weaknesses going into the 2018 midterm elections.

Bryan Long was born and raised in Troy, Alabama . He attended the University of Alabama where he earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and American Studies. He worked as a writer and editor at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, CNN, and the Atlanta Business Chronicle before joining the marketing communications firm of Jackson Spalding in Atlanta. He founded Better Georgia, a statewide progressive advocacy group, in 2011 and served as its executive director until 2018. Long is currently co-founder and president of Southern Majority, a progressive campaign and nonprofit consulting firm, based in Macon and Athens. He resides in Athens.

TPGA-057 Bryan Long video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-058 Teresa Tomlinson

1 interview(s) 95 minutes

Tomlinson starts by discussing her early life in Chamblee, time at Sweet Briar College in Virginia and Emory Law School, and experiences as a Young Republican. She talks about her decision to become a Democrat. Tomlinson recalls her work with Midtown, Incorporated and her decision to run for Mayor of Columbus. The interview devotes considerable time to Tomlinson's two terms as mayor. She offers her take on Georgia political history including an analysis of the Democratic Party's strengths and weaknesses. The interview closes with Tomlinson's thoughts on the 2016 presidential election and her predictions for the upcoming 2018 midterms.

Teresa Tomlinson was born in Atlanta and graduated from Chamblee High School. She is a graduate of Sweet Briar College and earned her J.D. from Emory University School of Law. Tomlinson practiced law at Pope, McGlamry, Kilpatrick, Morrison and Norwood (now Pope McGlamry). She also served as executive director of MidTown, Inc., a nonprofit, community development organization based in Columbus, Georgia, from 2006 until 2010. Tomlinson, a Democrat, was elected Mayor of Columbus in 2010 and reelected in 2014. She campaigned unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2020. She co-founded the Georgia Blue Project, an organization dedicated to electing down-ballot Democratic candidates in Georgia, in 2020. Tomlinson is currently partner at Hall Booth Smith, P.C. She resides in Columbus.

TPGA-058 Teresa Tomlinson video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-059 John Oxendine

1 interview(s) 76 minutes

Oxendine discusses his upbringing and early introduction to politics. He talks about his education and activities while at Mercer University in Macon. Oxendine describes his move from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. He reflects on his successful 1994 campaign for Georgia Insurance Commissioner as well as his take on that office's duties and responsibilities. Oxendine recalls his unsuccessful 2010 gubernatorial campaign. The interview closes with Oxendine's assessment of the Georgia Republican Party's past and prospects, including his thoughts on the 2017 special election between Democrat Jon Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel in Georgia's 6th congressional district.

John Oxendine was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and grew up in Tucker, Georgia. Oxendine graduated from Mercer University in 1984 with a bachelor's degree in Christianity, Greek, and political science. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Mercer University's Walter F. George School of Law in 1987 and worked as an attorney and partner at Oxendine and Associates from 1987 until 1995. Governor Joe Frank Harris appointed Oxendine to the Georgia State Board of Personnel Administration in 1988. Running as a Republican, he defeated Democrat Tim Ryles in 1994 to become Georgia Insurance Commissioner. Oxendine declined to run for reelection in 2010. He ran unsuccessfully for the 2010 Republican gubernatorial nomination. He is currently a consultant and attorney at John Oxendine, P.C. and Oxendine Insurance Services, Inc. in Atlanta.

TPGA-059 John Oxendine video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-059 John Oxendine audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-060 Erick Erickson

1 interview(s) 95 minutes

Erickson talks about growing up in the United Arab Emirates and his education at Mercer University in Macon. He recalls attending law school, practicing law, and becoming politically active in local and state politics in Georgia. Erickson discusses his career move away from law and into political blogging, commentary, and broadcasting. He reflects on his tenure as a Macon City Council member. He assesses Republican politics and the future of the modern conservative movement in the wake of President Donald Trump's 2016 victory. Erickson talks at length about President Donald Trump and his political impact in Georgia and across the country.

Erick W. Erickson was born in Jackson, Louisiana, on June 3, 1975. He moved with his family to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in 1980 after Conoco Oil (now ConocoPhillips) transferred his father to the country. He moved back to Louisiana in 1990. Erickson graduated from Mercer University in 1997 with a bachelor's degree in political science and history. He earned a J.D. from Mercer University's Walter F. George School of Law. Erickson practiced law for a short time at Sell and Melton, LLP in Macon but stepped away when he began writing for RedState, a conservative blog. Erickson later became CEO and Editor-in-Chief at RedState. He left RedState in 2015. From 2007 to 2011, Erickson, a Republican, served on the Macon City Council. He currently hosts Atlanta's Evening News on WSB Radio and serves as a regular Fox News contributor. He resides in Macon.

TPGA-060 Erick Erickson video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-060 Erick Erickson audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-061 Keith Mason

1 interview(s) 161 minutes

Keith Mason volunteered for Jimmy Carter and worked for Zell Miller in Miller's 1974 run for lieutenant governor. He continued to work for Miller, establishing himself as an advisor during Miller's gubernatorial race in 1990, and becoming Governor Miller's executive secretary during Miller's first term. In 1993, he joined President Bill Clinton's administration, and served as deputy assistant and deputy director for Intergovernmental Affairs, making him the liaison between the White House and state governors. He also served as a transition advisor to Governor Roy Barnes and as an advisor during Miller's time in the senate. In this interview, Mason discusses his involvement with many of the top Georgia Democrat political figures during the 1980s and 1990s, primarily Zell Miller. He explains his work on campaign trails and working in Zell Miller and Bill Clinton's administrations. He describes the shift of Georgia politics from heavily Democrat control to Republican.

Mason talks about growing up in Gwinnett County and observing politics as a child in a politically active family. He reflects on his education at the Lovett School in Atlanta and the University of Georgia. Those researching Governor Zell Miller will be interested in his memories of meeting, interning, and working for Zell Miller. Mason reviews his service as campaign manager for Miller's successful 1990 gubernatorial election as well as his time as Governor Miller's chief of staff. He discusses Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential election and his time working in the Clinton White House. He recalls his time at McKenna, Long & Aldridge and consulting work with various Georgia Democrats. He analyzes recent elections, including the historic 2002 Georgia gubernatorial election and the 2016 presidential election. Mason discusses the state of the two-party system in Georgia including the collapse of Democratic Party and the rise of the Republican Party in the early 2000s.

Keith W. Mason was born in Snellville, Georgia, on September 20, 1960. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia and University of Georgia School of Law. Mason, a Democrat, began his career in politics working for Lieutenant Governor Zell Miller and U.S. Senator Sam Nunn. Mason managed Miller's successful 1990 gubernatorial campaign and served as Governor Miller's executive secretary (chief of staff) from 1991 until 1993. He became President Bill Clinton's deputy director for intergovernmental affairs in 1993. Mason resigned in December 1995 and returned to Atlanta. He worked as senior vice president of Public Strategies, Inc. until becoming partner at Long, Aldridge & Norman (now Dentons) in 1997. Mason is principal at KWM Capital, a real estate and investment firm. He resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-061 Keith Mason video and interview index in OHMS Access Online

 

TPGA-062 Stacey Evans

1 interview(s) 100 minutes

 

TPGA-063 Molly Dye Franklin

1 interview(s) 125 minutes

Franklin talks about growing up in Waynesboro and Augusta and attending the University of Georgia and Katherine Gibbs College. She reflects on moving to Atlanta and her early work with Paul Coverdell and the Georgia Senate Republican Caucus. Franklin offers her insights into the Georgia Republican Party's growth as well as Coverdell's role in it. She discusses working in Washington D.C. as a close aide to Coverdell at the U.S. Peace Corps before returning to Georgia to assist Coverdell's successful 1992 U.S. Senate campaign. Franklin recalls her work as Senator Coverdell's chief of staff. She reflects on the moment she learned that Senator Coverdell had died as well as the ensuing days. The interview closes with Franklin's thoughts on the past and future of two-party politics in Georgia.

Molly Dye Franklin was raised between Waynesboro and Augusta. She earned her bachelor's degree in fashion merchandizing from the University of Georgia in 1980 before earning a certification in executive secretarial protocol from Katherine Gibbs College in Boston, Massachusetts. She later completed the Program for Senior Managers in Government at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government in 1997. Franklin began working for Georgia Senate Minority Leader Paul Coverdell as an aide in 1981. She also worked executive assistant at Coverdell and Company, Inc. in Atlanta. Following Coverdell's appointment as Director of the U.S. Peace Corps in 1989, Franklin moved to Washington D.C. as Coverdell's administrative director. She returned to Atlanta in 1991 and worked as administrative director for Paul Coverdell's 1992 U.S. Senate campaign. Following his victory, Franklin served as Senator Coverdell's chief of staff until his death in July 2000. From 2001 until 2005, Franklin was Vice President of Corporate Relations for AGCO Corporation in Duluth, Georgia. She is currently founder and President of MDF Designs and resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-063 Molly Dye Franklin video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-063 Molly Dye Franklin audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-064 James C. Cobb

1 interview(s) 100 minutes

Cobb talks about growing up in Hartwell, Georgia, and his early interest in history. He reflects on his history education as well as his own approaches to research, writing, and teaching. The bulk of the interview is devoted to the Cobb's analysis of southern culture and its impact on the region's politics, especially in Georgia. He offers his view on the role of race in southern politics. The interview closes with Cobb's assessment of the upcoming 2018 midterm elections and their potential impact Georgia's political trajectory.

James C. Cobb was born and raised in Hartwell, Georgia. A "Triple Dawg," Cobb earned his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees at the University of Georgia. A historian, Cobb has held numerous teaching positions around the country, and he is the author of numerous acclaimed books and articles, including The Selling of the South: The Southern Crusade for Industrial Development, The Most Southern Place on Earth: The Mississippi Delta and the Roots of Regional Identity, Away Down South: A History of Southern Identity, and The South and American Since World War II. His opinions and commentary have appeared in outlets including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, New York Times, Time, and Wall Street Journal. Cobb is the B. Phinizy Spalding Professor in the History of the American South Emeritus at the University of Georgia, past President of the Southern Historical Association, and the winner of the 2015 Governor's Award for the Humanities. He resides in Athens.

TPGA-064 James C. Cobb video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-064 James C. Cobb audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-065 Jack Kingston

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

Kingston discusses growing up in Athens and attending the University of Georgia. He talks about his early interest in politics, including his participation in several Republican youth organizations and campaigns. Kingston recalls moving to Savannah and his first campaign for political office. He discusses his work in the Georgia House of Representatives and his relationship with Republican and Democratic colleagues. Kingston reflects on his successful 1992 congressional campaign and making the transition from state politics to Congress. He mentions legislation of interest, memories of working with Newt Gingrich, and the difference between serving in the minority and majority party. Kingston talks about the redistricting process and how it affected his political plans. He recalls Saxby Chambliss and Sonny Perdue's victories in 2002 and their impact on Georgia Republican politics. Kingston discusses his unsuccessful 2014 campaign for the U.S. Senate and subsequent work with the Georgia Republican Party. The interview closes with Kingston's thoughts on Georgia political history and his thoughts on the 2018 midterm elections.

John H. (Jack) Kingston was born on April 24, 1955 in Bryan, Texas. His family relocated to Athens, Georgia, after his father, Dr. Albert Kingston, joined the University of Georgia faculty. Kingston attended the University of Georgia where he earned his bachelor's degree in economics in 1978. He moved to Savannah where he became Vice President of Palmer & Cay Insurance Services. Kingston, a Republican, won a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives in 1984 and served until 1992 when he defeated Democrat Barbara Christmas to win Georgia's first congressional district. While in Congress, Kingston served for several terms on the House Appropriations Committee and the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and chaired the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Service, Education, and Related Agencies. He was also House Republican Caucus vice-chair from 2004 until 2006. Kingston declined to seek reelection to the U.S. House in 2014. Kingston lost narrowly to businessman David Perdue in the 2014 Republican senatorial runoff. Kingston joined Squire Patton Boggs, an international law and lobbying firm, as principal in 2015.

TPGA-065 Jack Kingston video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-065 Jack Kingston audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-066 Dorothy Padgett

1 interview(s) 73 minutes

Padgett discusses her childhood and early life. She talks about meeting Jimmy Carter and becoming involved in his gubernatorial campaign. Padgett gives her views on Carter's campaign style and stance on issues. She recalls Carter's 1976 presidential run. Researchers of Jimmy Carter and presidential campaigns will be interested in Padgett's reflections on the Peanut Brigade. She mentions her later work with President Carter and closes with her thoughts on the current state of politics.

Dorothy (Dot) Padgett was born in Sandersville, Georgia, and grew up in Douglas County. She attended the University of Georgia's Atlanta extension (now Georgia State University) but did not graduate. Padgett and other supporters of former Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter organized "The Peanut Brigade" in 1975 to promote Carter's presidential campaign. She served as Assistant Chief of Protocol in the U.S. State Department from 1977 until 1979. Padgett later enjoyed a long career as an events coordinator with Atlanta Arrangements. Padgett is the author of Jimmy Carter: Elected President with Pocket Change and Peanuts, which was published by Mercer University Press in 2016. She also sits on the Board of Councilors at the Carter Center. Padgett resides in Douglasville.

TPGA-066 Dorothy Padgett video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-066 Dorothy Padgett audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

Reflections on 2018 Georgia Midterm Elections

7 interview(s)

TPGA-067 Greg Bluestein ( 1 interview(s) 127 minutes )

Greg Bluestein is a political reporter at the Atlanta-Journal Constitution, covering local, state, and national politics. His work can be accessed in the print version of the AJC, the Political Insider blog, and the Politically Georgia subscription site, part of the AJC.

TPGA-067 Greg Bluestein video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-067 Greg Bluestein audio on SoundCloud Access Online

TPGA-068 Blake Aued ( 1 interview(s) 50 minutes )

Blake Aued is the news editor for Flagpole Magazine in Athens, GA. He writes the weekly 'City Dope' column for Flagpole. He was also a writer at the Athens-Banner Herald, and is a regular contributor to WUGA's Athens News Matters with Alexia Ridley.

Aued talks about the 2018 Athens-Clarke County municipal elections and their potential impact on local politics and policy, including a discussion of the progressive Athens for Everyone organization. Aued analyzes Tabitha Johnson-Green's victory in the 10th congressional district Democratic primary. He analyzes the 2018 Republican gubernatorial primary and runoff between Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp. Aued looks at Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams's victory over state Rep. Stacey Evans in the Democratic gubernatorial primary. He assesses other down-ballot, statewide primary elections. The interview turns to the general election, and Aued analyzes the gubernatorial general election between Abrams and Kemp. Aued reflects on state Rep. Deborah Gonzalez and state Rep. Jonathan Wallace's defeats. He discusses Democrats' continuing weakness in statewide runoff elections. The interview closes with Aued's thoughts on Governor Brian Kemp's administration, the 2019 legislative session, and the upcoming 2020 election.

TPGA-068 Blake Aued video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-068 Blake Aued audio on SoundCloud Access Online

TPGA-069 Johnny Kauffman ( 1 interview(s) 66 minutes )

Johnny Kauffman is a reporter for WABE 90.1 in Atlanta. Prior to WABE, he worked as a producer for Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) and National Public Radio (NPR) where he produced Morning Edition, Weekend Edition, and Tell Me More.

Kauffman talks about his upbringing, education, and early career in radio journalism. He discusses working with Georgia Public Broadcasting and WABE in Atlanta. Kauffman reflects on covering Georgia politics during the 2016 election, the 2017 special election between Democrat Jon Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel in Georgia's 6th congressional district, and the 2017 Atlanta mayoral election and runoff between Keisha Lance Bottoms and Mary Norwood. The interview turns to the 2018 midterm elections in Georgia. Kauffman talks about the Republican gubernatorial primary and runoff between Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp. He analyzes the Democratic gubernatorial primary between state Rep. Stacey Evans and Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams. Kauffman reviews other down-ballot, statewide primaries. He surveys the gubernatorial general election between Democrat Stacey Abrams and Republican Brian Kemp. Kauffman explains current electoral trends, demographic change, and the role of voter suppression and turnout. He reflects on Republicans' continued strength in statewide runoff elections. He offers some thoughts on Governor Brian Kemp's administration, the 2019 legislative session, the 2020 presidential election, and Georgia political history.

TPGA-069 Johnny Kauffman video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-069 Johnny Kauffman audio on SoundCloud Access Online

TPGA-070 Stephen Fowler ( 1 interview(s) 103 minutes )

Stephen Fowler is a politics reporter for Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) in Atlanta. He first worked for GPB's All Things Considered as the afternoon news producer, reporter, and fill-in host. His reports can be heard on programs such as On Second Thought, Here and Now, and Marketplace.

Fowler discusses his upbringing, education, and journalism career. He talks about his work at Georgia Public Broadcasting. Fowler recalls covering the 2016 election cycle, the 2017 special election between Democrat Jon Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel in Georgia's 6th congressional district, and the 2017 Atlanta mayoral race. Fowlers reviews the Republican gubernatorial primary and runoff between Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp as well as the Democratic gubernatorial primary between state Rep. Stacey Evans and Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams. He recalls other down-ballot, statewide primaries. Fowler analyzes the gubernatorial general election between Democrat Stacey Abrams and Republican Brian Kemp. He assesses current electoral trends, demographic changes, the role of voter suppression and turnout, and Republicans' continued strength in statewide runoff elections. Fowler discusses Governor Brian Kemp's administration, 2019 legislative session, 2020 presidential election, and Georgia political history.

TPGA-070 Stephen Fowler video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-070 Stephen Fowler audio on SoundCloud Access Online

TPGA-074 Max Blau ( 1 interview(s) 81 minutes )

Max Blau was born in Evanston, Illinois, and grew up on Chicago's North Side. He is a graduate of Loyola Academy (Wilmette, Illinois), Emory University, and the University of Georgia's Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. Blau began his journalism career as a staff writer for STAT, CNN, Atlanta Magazine, and Creative Loafing Atlanta. As a freelance journalist, Blau's work has appeared in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlanta, the Bitter Southerner, the Atavist, the Atlantic, New York Times, Washington Post, the Guardian, and others. An investigative reporter with Georgia Health News, Blau is part of ProPublica's local reporting network. He resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-074 Max Blau video on Kaltura Access Online

TPGA-075 Jim Galloway ( 1 interview(s) 83 minutes )

Jim Galloway was born in Ohio and grew up near College Park, Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia where he earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and worked as a photographer, writer, and editor at the Red & Black. Galloway interned with Atlanta Constitution political columnist Bill Shipp and Senator Sam Nunn. After a short stint with the Anderson (SC) Independent, Galloway joined the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 1980 as a staff writer on its North Fulton edition. He later worked in Beijing as part of Cox Media Group's (the AJC's parent company) push into international news before returning to Atlanta. Most recently, Galloway worked as a columnist and lead political writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, co-author of the Political Insider blog, and a frequent contributor to Georgia Public Broadcasting's "Political Rewind" with Bill Nigut. He retired from the AJC in January 2021 He resides in Kennesaw.

Galloway discusses the 2018 Republican gubernatorial primary before turning to the Democratic contest between House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams and state Rep. Stacey Evans. He also talks about the primary elections for down-ballot, statewide races. Galloway reflects on the 2018 gubernatorial general election between Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp. He explains current electoral trends, including growing Democratic strength in the Metro Atlanta suburbs and Republican appeal in rural and exurban Georgia. Galloway offers his thoughts on continuing Republican advantages in runoff elections. The interview closes with Galloway looking ahead the Governor Kemp's administration, 2019 legislative session, and 2020 presidential election.

TPGA-075 Jim Galloway video on Kaltura Access Online

TPGA-076 M.V. (Trey) Hood III ( 1 interview(s) 51 minutes )

M.V. (Trey) Hood III was raised in Waco, Texas. A political scientist, Hood earned a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University, master's degree from Baylor University, and a doctorate from Texas Tech University. He was a visiting professor of political science at Texas Tech University from 1997 until 1999 when he joined the University of Georgia's Department of Political Science. He is co-author of The Rational Southerner: Black Mobilization, Republican Growth, and the Partisan Transformation of the American South. Hood is currently Professor of Political Science and Director of the SPIA Survey Research Center.

Hood discusses the UGA School of Public and International Affair's Survey Research Center's polling practices and results for the 2018 midterm elections in Georgia. He talks about the 2018 Republican gubernatorial primary before turning to the Democratic contest between House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams and state Rep. Stacey Evans. Hood talks about the primary elections for down-ballot, statewide races. He analyzes the 2018 gubernatorial general election between Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp. Hood assesses current electoral trends, including growing Democratic strength in the Metro Atlanta suburbs and Republican appeal in rural and exurban Georgia. He offers his thoughts on continuing Republican advantages in runoff elections, the state of the Democratic and Republican Party in Georgia, and the impact of voting dynamics like early voting and alleged voter suppression. The interview closes with Hood looking ahead to the Kemp administration, 2019 legislative session, and 2020 presidential election.

TPGA-076 Trey Hood III video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-071 Robin Morris

1 interview(s) 76 minutes

Morris talks about her childhood and upbringing. She discusses her interest in southern history and research topics, including the modern conservative movement, and her favorite courses to teach. She talks about balancing her political opinions and activism as an educator as well as her role as faculty advisor to the Network of Enlightened Women (NeW) at Agnes Scott College. Morris outlines her views on Georgia history and the role of women in politics. Researchers of conservatism and political activism will be interested in Morris's analysis of women in the Georgia Republican Party and the STOP ERA movement. The interview closes with Morris's thought on the recent 2018 midterm elections and the role of women in the future of Georgia politics.

Professor Robin Morris was born in Columbia, South Carolina, and grew up in Tucker, Georgia. A graduate of Tucker High School, she earned her bachelor's degree at Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina. After participating in the Teach for America program, Morris attended the University of Mississippi where she earned a master's degree in southern studies. She worked as a museum educator at the Levine Museum of the New South in Charlotte, North Carolina, before attending Yale University where she earned her master's and doctoral degrees in history. Dr. Morris is currently an associate professor of history at Agnes Scott College. She resides in Decatur.

TPGA-071 Robin Morris video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-071 Robin Morris audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-072 Phil Kent

1 moving_image(s) 74 minutes

Kent talks about his upbringing in upstate New York and his early interest in politics. He explains his decision to attend the University of Georgia's Grady College of Journalism as well as his participation in campus life and politics. Kent discusses his start in journalism at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and later the Augusta Chronicle. He talks about the editorial writing process, his work on U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond's staff, and his return to the Chronicle as a political columnist. Kent turns to his later work as the head of the Southern Legal Foundation, InsiderAdvantage, and James Magazine. He assesses the role of media in politics as well as the changing role of technology in media. Kent talks about Georgia's changing political landscape, especially the rise of the Republican Party during the late twentieth century. He reflects on the 2018 midterm elections in Georgia, including takeaways from Brian Kemp's victory over Stacey Abrams. Kent closes with thoughts on the future of two-party politics in Georgia.

Phil Kent was born and raised in Auburn, New York. He relocated to Georgia to attend the Grady School of Journalism at the University of Georgia. Following graduation, Kent began a long career as an editorialist and writer at the Augusta Chronicle. He served as South Carolina U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond's press secretary and public affairs advisor from 1981 to 1982. Kent has helmed conservative policy organizations including the Southeastern Legal Foundation and the American Immigration Control Foundation. He is currently President of Phil Kent Consulting, CEO and Publisher of InsiderAdvantage Georgia, and a regular panelist on WAGA-TV/Fox5 Atlanta's "Georgia Gang," a Sunday public affairs program. He resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-072 Phil Kent video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-072 Phil Kent audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-073 Nse Ufot

1 interview(s) 58 minutes

Ufot begins by talking about her family, upbringing, and education. She turns to her political activism and work with organized labor following law school. Ufot discusses the origins of the New Georgia Project, its mission, and her responsibilities in the organization. She explains the challenges related to voter registration including voter apathy and legal actions. Ufot reflects on balancing her personal political views with work at the nonpartisan New Georgia Project. She talks about voter suppression and its ties to Jim Crow era Georgia. Ufot adds her preliminary takeaways from the 2018 midterm elections and the future of the New Georgia Project. The interview closes with Ufot's thoughts on Georgia politics looking ahead to 2020 and beyond.

Nseabasi (Nse) Ufot was born in Nigeria and immigrated to the United States as a child. She is a graduate of Atlanta Public Schools, Georgia Tech, and the University of Dayton School of Law. Ufot practiced corporate law before joining the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Ohio's legal department. She has also worked as a senior lobbyist and government relations officer for the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and assistant executive director of the Canadian Association of Teachers. She is currently CEO of the New Georgia Project, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to registering and engaging Georgia's diversifying population. Ufot resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-073 Nse Ufot video on YouTube Access Online

TPGA-073 Nse Ufot audio on SoundCloud Access Online

 

TPGA-077 Sonny Dixon

1 moving_image(s) 110 minutes

Dixon discusses his family and early life. He talks about his first experiences in politics and election to municipal offices, including the Mayor of Garden City, Georgia. Dixon turns to his time serving in the Georgia House of Representatives, including committee work and legislation. He reflects on the Georgia Republican Party's growing strength during the 1990s and its impact on the General Assembly and politics. Dixon offers his take on why the Georgia Republican Party grew and supplanted the Democrats, and he suggests some differences in politics then and now. He turns to his transition from politics into television local news, and he recalls his career as a reporter and anchor. The interview closes with Dixon's take on the role of the media in politics and his thoughts on the future of Georgia politics.

J.A. (Sonny) Dixon was born in Savannah on August 5, 1952. He grew up in Savannah and attended the University of Florida. He served two terms as mayor of the Garden City, Georgia and five terms in the Georgia House of Representatives. Dixon retired from the Georgia House in 1997. A television journalist, Dixon worked as a reporter and later lead anchor for WTOC-TV in Savannah. Dixon is the recipient of the Emmy Award for best news anchor among other awards. He retired from WTOC-TV in 2015 and works as a voice over artist. He resides in Savannah.

TPGA-077 Sonny Dixon video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-078 Maynard Eaton

1 moving_image(s) 60 minutes

Eaton discusses his family, childhood, and education before turning to his early interest in journalism. He talks about his work as a journalist and media consultant for Republicans and Democrats. Eaton reflects on the changing role of media in politics as well as the differences between print and broadcast media. He recalls his time working with the Atlanta Voice and Atlanta Tribune. Eaton then discusses the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and his work as the SCLC's National Director of Communications. He also assesses Georgia politics and how it has changed since he moved to the state. The interview closes with Eaton's thoughts on the future of the Democratic and Republican parties in Georgia.

TPGA-078 Maynard Eaton video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-079 Samuel Olens

1 moving_image(s) 83 minutes

Olens discusses his childhood and growing up in rural New Jersey before attending American University in Washington D.C. He turns to his decision to attend Emory University and settle in Cobb County. Olens reflects on his work with the East Cobb Civic Association and the differences between east Cobb and other areas of the county. He talks about his 1997 campaign for Cobb County Commission, the issues that came before that body, and his eventual promotion to commission chair in 2002. Olens recalls the impact of the Great Recession on Cobb County before discussing his successful run for Georgia Attorney General. He assesses that office's role, the U.S. Supreme Court's Obergefell decision granting same-sex marriage rights nationwide, and other issues that arose between 2011 and 2017 when he resigned to become President of Kennesaw State University. The interview turns to Olens's assessment of Georgia's changing politics, including the changing dynamics within the Georgia Republican Party. He also talks about President Donald Trump's impact and the 2018 midterm elections.

Sam Olens was born on July 8, 1957 in Miami, Florida, and grew up in South New Jersey. He graduated with bachelor's and master's degrees in international politics from American University in Washington D.C. and earned a J.D. from Emory University School of Law in Atlanta. Olens was elected to the Cobb County Commission in 1998, and he became Chair of the Cobb County Commission in 2002. He defeated Democrat Ken Hodges in 2010 to become Attorney General of Georgia and was reelected in 2014. He was named President of Kennesaw State University in November 2016 and served until February 2018. Olens is currently counsel at Denton's Public Policy practice and a member of its State Attorneys General group. He resides in Cobb County.

TPGA-079 Samuel Olens video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-080 Christopher Carr

1 moving_image(s) 79 minutes

Carr talks about his upbringing and move from Michigan to Georgia. He discusses his education at the University of Georgia before turning to his legal career at Georgia Pacific, Alston Bird, and the Georgia Public Policy Foundation. Carr describes his interest in politics and his work on various campaigns. He recalls working in Senator Johnny Isakson's office before serving as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Carr describes his work in the office and the role of government in promoting business investment and development. He references the film industry in Georgia and other major sectors. Carr talks about his appointment as Attorney General of Georgia, his 2018 campaign, and policy priorities. The interview closes with a discussion of the two-party system in Georgia and Carr's thoughts on Governor Nathan Deal's legacy.

Christopher M. (Chris) Carr was born on February 8, 1972 in Lansing, Michigan. He relocated to Georgia with his family in 1978. Carr is a graduate of the University of Georgia's Terry School of Business and School of Law. Carr worked for Georgia Pacific before joining the Alston & Bird Law Firm. He has also served as Vice President and General Counsel for the Georgia Public Policy Foundation. Carr managed Johnny Isakson's successful 2004 election campaign and became Senator Isakson's chief of staff in 2007. Governor Nathan Deal appointed Carr to lead the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) in 2013. Governor Deal then appointed Carr to fill the unexpired term of Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens in November 2016. Carr defeated Democrat Charlie Bailey in 2018 to win a four-year term. He resides in Dunwoody.

TPGA-080 Christopher Carr video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-081 Jerry Gonzalez

1 moving_image(s) 49 minutes

Gonzalez speaks about his childhood, education, and path to becoming a political activist in Georgia. He reflects on the origins of the Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO) and its mission. Gonzalez discusses the current state of immigration policy and its impact of politics. He talks about GALEO's work during past elections as well as the 2018 midterms, including voter registration. Gonzalez reflects on balancing his personal political views in a nonpartisan public role. The interview closes with Gonzalez looking ahead to the future of Georgia politics and GALEO's evolving role.

Jerry Gonzalez was born and raised in Laredo, Texas. He earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M in 1995 and an MPA from Georgia State University's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies in 2005. He joined the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) as a legislative policy analyst in 2002 and became founding Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO) in 2003. He is currently the CEO of GALEO. Gonzalez resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-081 Jerry Gonzalez video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-082 Tim Cairl

1 moving_image(s) 57 minutes

Cairl talks about his upbringing, education, and early interest in politics. He discusses his time at Liberty University and growing interest in progressive politics and causes. He reflects on the mission of the Stonewall Democrats, his role within the organization, and the work of predecessor organizations. Cairl discusses current policy priorities as well as issues important to the LGBTQ+ community. He speaks about the Stonewall Democrats' campaign work on behalf of progressive candidates. The interview closes with Cairl's thoughts on the state of Georgia politics and predictions about the future of the two-party system.

Tim Cairl was born and raised in rural, central Michigan. He relocated to Georgia with his family as a child and attended high school in Douglasville, Georgia. He earned a bachelor's degree in health sciences from Liberty University in 1997 and an MPP from Georgia State University's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies in 2013. From 2006 to 2009, Cairl served as Executive Director of the Young Democrats of Georgia, and he is the Chair of the Georgia Stonewall Democrats. He is currently the Director of Education Policy for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. Cairl resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-082 Tim Cairl video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-083 Bob Irvin

1 moving_image(s) 136 minutes

Irvin outlines his background, upbringing, and early interest in Republican politics dating back to the 1960s. He talks about his first stint in the Georgia House of Representatives during the 1970s, including assessments of Speaker George L. Smith II and Speaker Thomas B. Murphy. Irvin recalls the time Charles, Prince of Wales spoke to a session of the General Assembly in 1977. He speaks about returning to Georgia and Republican politics. Irvin discusses his second stint in the Georgia House of Representatives as well as policy and party-building initiatives he spearheaded as House Minority Leader between 1994 until 2000. He recalls his positions on issues important in the 1990s including crime, traffic, development, and welfare reform. The interview closes with Irvin's thoughts on redistricting and how it might impact Georgia politics in the future.

TPGA-083 Bob Irvin video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-084 Maxine S. Goldstein

1 moving_image(s) 78 minutes

Goldstein discusses her childhood, family, and education. She talks about meeting her future husband, Jacob Goldstein, and settling in Milledgeville, Georgia. Goldstein recalls participating in civic clubs before becoming active in the Democratic Party of Georgia. She talks about her experiences volunteering and working for various Democratic campaigns in Baldwin County and around the state. Goldstein reflects on some of her close friends and associates in the Democratic Party of Georgia as well as the state of the party organization during her years of service. She talks about Jimmy Carter as governor and president. Goldstein discusses her streak of attending Democratic National Conventions as well as her memorable convention hats. She describes the 1988 Democratic National Convention in Atlanta and the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. The interview closes with an overview of Goldstein's long and colorful political career.

Maxine Shapiro Goldstein was born on August 25, 1926 in Augusta, Georgia. She attended the Junior College of Augusta (now Augusta University) in 1945 and the University of Georgia in 1946. She married Jacob Louis Goldstein in 1947. Goldstein began volunteering with the Democratic Party of Georgia in the 1960s and was elected president of the Georgia Federation of Democratic Women in 1980 and Vice-chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia in 1982. Goldstein served on the Democratic National Committee's executive committee from 1984 until 1990, and she attended every Democratic National Convention between 1976 and 2008. Goldstein resides in Asheville, North Carolina.

TPGA-084 Maxine Goldstein video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-085 Jeff DiSantis

1 moving_image(s) 123 minutes

DiSantis talks about his upbringing before turning to his time at the University of Georgia and Emory University School of Law. He discusses his early work in Democratic politics, including his role in 1996 Clinton/Gore campaign. DiSantis recalls working with the Democratic National Committee and consultant Jim Andrews. He reflects on his work with Thurbert Baker's 1998 campaign for Georgia Attorney General and in the Attorney General's office. DiSantis talks about working with Bobby Kahn as executive director of the Democratic Party of Georgia, including the 2006 election cycle. He recalls founding 20/20 Insight and managing Attorney General Thurbert Baker's unsuccessful 2010 gubernatorial campaign and Michelle Nunn's 2014 U.S. Senate campaign. The conversation turns to the electoral impact of Donald Trump's 2016 victory. DiSantis breaks down the 2018 gubernatorial election and assesses Democrats' growing suburban strength and Republicans' continued dominance in rural and exurban areas. He looks ahead to the 2020 election cycle.

Jeff DiSantis was born in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in various locations around the country while his father served in the military. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia and a J.D. from the Emory University School of Law. DiSantis worked on the staff of multiple Democratic officeholders during the late 1980s and 1990s, including Senator Sam Nunn. He is the founding partner of the Jeff DiSantis Law Firm and a partner at 20/20 Insight, a consulting and public relations firms. DiSantis resides in Atlanta.

TPGA-085 Jeff DiSantis video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-086 Leroy Simkins, Jr.

1 moving_image(s) 70 minutes

Simkins discusses his early life and education in Beech Island, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia. He talks about attending Washington & Lee University, serving in the U.S. Army, returning to Augusta to work for his father, and starting his own real estate firm. Simkins reflects on his growing interest in Republican politics during the early 1960s. He recalls his unsuccessful campaign for the Richmond County Commission in 1962, Senator Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign, and his successful 1965 Georgia House campaign. He discusses his experience in the Georgia House of Representatives, as a member and House Minority Leader. The interview turns to his unsuccessful 1966 congressional campaign as well as Bo Callaway's historic 1966 gubernatorial run. Simkins assesses the impact of Richard Nixon and Watergate on the Georgia Republican Party during the 1970s. The interview closes with Simkins' thoughts on how the Georgia Republican Party has changed since he became active.

Leroy H. (Roy) Simkins, Jr. was born in Augusta, Georgia, and grew up in Beech Island, South Carolina. He is a graduate of Richmond Academy in Augusta and Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia. After serving two years in the U.S. Army, Simkins returned to Augusta. After working for his father's construction firm, Simkins entered the real estate business in 1959. Simkins, a Republican, won election to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1964 and became House Minority Leader in 1965. Simkins ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Congress in 1966. He returned to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1968 but declined to seek reelection in 1970. Simkins is founder and owner of Simkins Land Company, a timber, land appraisal, and real estate firm. He resides in Augusta.

TPGA-086 Leroy Simkins Jr. video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-087 Joe Wilkinson

1 moving_image(s) 141 minutes

Wilkinson talks about his family history and growing up in Atlanta. He discusses his early interest in politics and recalls volunteering for Senator Barry Goldwater's 1964 presidential campaign and working on U.S. Representative Bo Callaway's 1966 gubernatorial campaign. Wilkinson talks about his time at the University of Georgia. He describes his work as an intern with Georgia House and Senate Minority Leader's offices and later as Bo Callaway's political assistant. Wilkinson reflects on his time working in the White House Press Office during President Gerald Ford's administration, the Environment Protection Agency, and the Ronald Reagan administration. He talks about his work at the Coca-Cola Company, including the launches of Diet Coke and New Coke. Wilkinson reflects on his time in the Georgia House of Representatives. He describes memorable legislation enacted during his tenure, including the new state flag, mandatory seatbelt laws, protections for the sea turtle, and the incorporation of Sandy Springs. The interview turns to Wilkinson's analysis of Georgia political history and the evolution of the two major parties. He assesses the two parties' strengths and weaknesses, the impact of Donald Trump's 2016 victory, and the closely contested 2018 midterm elections in Georgia. He closes with thoughts on the 2020 election and his work on the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Joseph B. (Joe) Wilkinson was born September 3, 1946 in Atlanta. Wilkinson is a graduate of North Fulton County High School and the University of Georgia. Wilkinson has held various roles with the Coca-Cola Company. He also worked as a White House staffer during the Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan administrations. Wilkinson, a Republican, won a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives in 2000 where he eventually chaired the House Ethics Committee. Wilkinson retired in 2017. He is currently President of Fun Academy Studios and Chair of the Jekyll Island Authority. Wilkinson is also a retired U.S. Naval Reserves captain and veteran of Operation Desert Storm. He resides in St. Simons Island and Sandy Springs.

TPGA-087 Joe Wilkinson video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-088 Charles Hayslett

1 moving_image(s) 116 minutes

Hayslett discusses his upbringing in Mississippi and Georgia as well as his education the University of Georgia. He recalls his early career covering local news for the Atlanta Journal. Hayslett turns to his time at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Washington Bureau, including coverage of the 1980 U.S. Senate campaign between Senator Herman Talmadge and Mack Mattingly. He reflects on leaving journalism to work in advertising and public relations, including founding his own firm in the 1990s. The interview turns to Hayslett's analysis of Georgia political history and the Democrats' and Republicans' changing fortunes in the state. He assesses the impact of Donald Trump's 2016 victory and the 2018 midterms. Hayslett offers his thoughts on the upcoming 2020 election before discussing his "Trouble in God's Country" blog, which explores the current state of and challenges facing rural Georgia.

Charles Hayslett was born and raised in Columbus, Mississippi. He relocated to Atlanta with his family in 1965. Hayslett is a graduate Briarcliff High School and the University of Georgia's Grady School of Journalism. Upon graduation, he joined the staff of the Atlanta Journal where he reported on local, state, and national politics in Atlanta and Washington D.C. He left the Atlanta Journal in 1980 and began working as a marketing and public relations professional. He co-founded the public relations firm Hayslett Sorrel (now the Hayslett Group) in 1994. He is currently a freelance public relations and communications consultant and author of the "Trouble in God's Country" blog, which explores the issues confronting rural Georgia. He resides in Decatur.

TPGA-088 Charles Hayslett video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-089 Lea Agnew

1 moving_image(s) 95 minutes

Agnew talks about her childhood growing up in south Atlanta and attending the University of Georgia. She discusses her early interest and involvement in Republican politics. Agnew recalls working on U.S. Representative Fletcher Thompson's unsuccessful 1972 U.S. Senate campaign. She reflects on her work with Republican Michael J. Egan. Agnew talks about working for U.S. Deputy Attorney General Mike Egan during the Carter administration, including life in Washington D.C. She describes working with Georgia Senate Minority Leader Paul D. Coverdell at Coverdell & Company and volunteering for Coverdell's successful 1992 U.S. Senate campaign. Agnew reflects on Mike Egan and Paul Coverdell's political approach and style. The interview closes with Agnew's thoughts on demographic change and the future of Georgia politics, including U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler's 2020 special election campaign.

Lea Agnew was born in Atlanta and grew up in southwest Atlanta. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia's Grady School of Journalism. Agnew became active in politics during the 1968 presidential elections, and she eventually worked as a campaign staffer and assistant to U.S. Representative Fletcher Thompson, Georgia House Minority Leader Michael Egan, and Georgia Senate Minority Leader Paul D. Coverdell. She also served as Mike Egan's administrative assistant during his tenure as Associate U.S. Attorney General in Washington D.C. Since 1983, Agnew has worked in corporate and non-profit communications as owner and operator of Write to the Point. She resides in Fayette County.

TPGA-089 Lea Agnew video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-090 Paul Bolster

1 moving_image(s) 158 minutes

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-090 Paul Bolster video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-091 Richard Royal

1 moving_image(s) 79 minutes

Camilla, Georgia

TPGA-091 Richard Royal video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-093 Kyle Hayes

1 moving_image(s) 112 minutes

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-093 Kyle Hayes video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-094 Chris Dowd

1 moving_image(s) 64 minutes

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-094 Chris Dowd video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-095 James B. Langford

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-095 James B. Langford video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-096 Rebecca DeHart

1 interview(s) 131 minutes

St. Simons Island, Georgia

TPGA-096 Rebecca DeHart video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-098 Richard McBride

1 interview(s) 100 minutes

Austin, Texas

TPGA-098 Richard McBride video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-099 Tim Ryles

1 interview(s) 136 minutes

Americus, Georgia

TPGA-099 Tim Ryles video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-100 Karen Handel

1 interview(s) 120 minutes

Carrollton, Georgia

TPGA-100 Karen Handel video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-101 Lynn Smith

1 interview(s) 110 minutes

Newnan, Georgia

TPGA-101 Lynn Smith video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-102 Mark Pendergrast

1 interview(s) 112 minutes

Burlington, Vermont

TPGA-102 Mark Pendergrast video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-103 Jason Gilliland

1 interview(s) 47 minutes

Katonah, New York

TPGA-103 Jason Gilliland video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-104 Boris Heersink

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

The Bronx, New York

TPGA-104 Boris Heersink video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-105 Tim Boyd

1 interview(s) 73 minutes

Nashville, Tennessee

TPGA-105 Tim Boyd video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-106 John Pruitt

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-106 John Pruitt video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-107 James L. Pannell

1 interview(s) 80 minutes

Savannah, Georgia

TPGA-107 James L. Pannell video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-108 Milton "Woody" Woodside

1 interview(s) 87 minutes

St. Simons Island, Georgia

TPGA-108 Milton "Woody" Woodside video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-109 Michael J. Coles

1 interview(s) 137 minutes

Atlanta, Georgia

TPGA-109 Michael J. Coles video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-111 C. Jones Hooks

1 interview(s) 98 minutes

Jekyll Island, Georgia

TPGA-111 C. Jones Hooks video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-112 Randal E. Morris

1 interview(s) 121 minutes

White Oak, Georgia

TPGA-112 Randal E. Morris video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-114 Steve Wrigley

1 interview(s) 113 minutes

Athens, Georgia

TPGA-114 Steve Wrigley video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-116 Whit Ayres

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

Arlington, Virginia

TPGA-116 Whit Ayres video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-117 Seth Masket

1 interview(s) 77 minutes

Denver, Colorado

TPGA-117 Seth Masket video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-118 James W. Riddlesperger, Jr.

1 interview(s) 85 minutes

Fort Worth, Texas

TPGA-118 James W. Riddlesperger, Jr. video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-119 Ronald Keith Gaddie

1 interview(s) 189 minutes

Fort Worth, Texas

TPGA-119 Ronald Keith Gaddie video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-121 Seth McKee

1 interview(s) 87 minutes

Stillwater, Oklahoma

TPGA-121 Seth McKee video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-122 James Langford

1 interview(s) 140 minutes

Marietta, Georgia

TPGA-122 James Langford video on Kaltura Access Online

 

TPGA-124 Adam Myers

1 interview(s) 100 minutes

Providence, Rhode Island

TPGA-124 Adam Myers video on Kaltura Access Online