Last Thursday night I attended Representative Robert Dickey’s annual Peaches and Politics event in the sprawling metropolis of Musella, Georgia. The place was packed with conservative Republicans from all parts of the state. It was good to see so many of my friends there. I know there were a few who came but we did not connect.
Rick Jackson came and I had the chance to give him a copy of my new book, Shaped in Life’s Quarry. Rick’s life story was a big part of the inspiration to finish the book and get it published. His story is included in two different parts of the book. The book is available on Amazon in Kindle, Audible, paperback and hardback editions.
The packed house at Dickey’s peaches may give some a false sense of security in the outcome. That is the last thing that we need.
The polling in the governor’s race is neck and neck. A gathering of people in an agricultural packing shed does not represent all Georgians. The Atlanta metro area represents half the voters in the state. That should not scare or discourage us but it should make us look at the situation with a sober mind.
As is always the case, turnout is the critical and deciding factor. Rural Georgia must turn out exceptionally strong or we will be swallowed like flies going down a toad’s throat by the metro areas.
The swing vote in the suburbs will likely be a deciding factor. Rick Jackson’s story is a compelling story of overcoming challenges that will resonate with many voters who might otherwise be undecided or lean Democrat. You probably have within your circle of family and friends some who, whether living in the suburbs or not, will fall into that group. If they hear Rick Jackson, or hear his story, it is more likely that they will trust and like him.
Democrats will try to paint Jackson as a billionaire who does not relate to the average person. His story and his generous support of many social services will mitigate that image.
The Senate race is the one of most concern. You will hear the talking heads rant about the race leftward of the Democrat party. I do not think that argument will fly here in Georgia.
Democrats in red states such as Georgia practice being moderate or even conservative on the campaign trail. Their actions in Washington paint a radically different picture. Ossoff will vote right along with the leadership of the Democrats. That leadership does not reflect the values of Georgia.
John Ossoff will present himself as a reasonable and moderate candidate. Ossoff has also worked hard at having a good reputation at constituent services. Someone who has been helped with Social Security, Veteran’s issues, even farmer assistance will lean toward splitting a ticket and voting for Rick Jackson for Governor and Ossoff for Senate.
Mike Collins will be painted as a harsh, hating, heartless, bully. Ads are running now attempting to link him with supporting Jeffrey Epstein.
So what should be your response? The campaigns and political action committees will work on television, social media, and mailing messaging. What you can do as an individual is the most important thing and that is influence those in your circle of influence. That circle is probably bigger than you realize.
First, encourage your friends to vote. That may sound overly simplistic, but you would be shocked at those who do not go vote. Some may even tout their support on social media and in conversations but somehow do not get around to voting.
Second, use the avenues of communication available to you. Share this commentary on social media. When voting time comes, take a picture of you wearing your “I voted” sticker and post it as an exhortation for others to go vote as well.
Finally, let people know where you stand on these candidates and ask for their support. Rick Jackson, Mike Collins, Tyler Harper, and these other candidates cannot possibly shake every hand and personally ask for a vote. You, on the other hand, carry more influence and are better able to persuade those in your circle of influence.
Do not presume that the people you know will go vote. Let them know that you will and just say, “I would appreciate your vote for the Republican candidates.”
Thank you for what you are doing. If we stick to the basics and get our voters out, we will prevail. If we assume victory, then we will experience the agony of defeat.
