For Georgia’s economy to stay competitive, we need to harness all peoples’ talents and build a strong middle class. This means additional investments in our public schools, increasing our teacher workforce, supporting emotional and mental health, and expanding enrichment programs. When a student enters a pre-K-12 school or technical college in Georgia, their zip code and families’ economic situation should never predetermine their success.

Georgia is experiencing some of the fastest-rising rent increases and housing costs in the country. Wall Street firms, now landlords, are fueling markets that are unaffordable for too many hardworking families to rent or purchase a home in the communities they live in. Stronger protections for renters and retirees are necessary to maintain a stable home. Additionally, the right incentives for local governments are needed to build more homes and reduce housing costs. I believe every person deserves a home that is safe and affordable.

Georgia ranks 3rd highest in the nation for uninsured people (1.4 million), 3rd worst in healthcare costs, and 3rd in hospital closures. Expanding Medicaid would extend health insurance to thousands of children, over 155,000 women, and to nearly half of Georgia’s uninsured veterans and their spouses. Additional investments will keep hospitals open and grow a workforce that addresses healthcare disparities in access and outcomes across the State.