Governor Kemp signs 2023 budget at UNG
News May 12, 2022FANNIN COUNTY, Ga. – Members of the state legislature, local governments, Governor Brian Kemp, Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston, and many others joined in celebration at the campus of the University of North Georgia today as the governor signed Georgia’s Fiscal Year 2023 Budget.
Called a “historic budget” by several speakers, the day saw specific highlights and history for Fannin County and North Georgia. Alongside restorations of austerities for teachers and over $218 million for a cost of living adjustment for full-time employees in the University System of Georgia, this budget holds $2.6 million in funding for Fannin County’s standalone library and $13 million in funding for an expansion of the Blue Ridge campus of the University of North Georgia. This combines with an additional $2 million in the amended Fiscal Year 2022 budget for a total of $15 million to expand the Blue Ridge campus.
These major projects coming specifically to Fannin will see gains along all of the counties along the Highway 515 corridor as the large majority of students who attend the University of North Georgia come from those counties according to Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Campus of UNG, Sandy Ott.
Speaker of the House, David Ralston stated that it was difficult to find support and funding for these projects. Though, he noted that it wasn’t a matter of a number of different projects, but of the amount the state is committing to support these projects. Ralston said he is happy with the work they did on including these in the budget and also for the opportunity to hold the signing ceremony in his home of Fannin stating, “I think it says a lot about Fannin County. It’s for the county, it has nothing to do with me. I just couldn’t be more proud. The whole state is here today. The whole state is looking at us today and it’s a good place to be.”
UNG President Bonita Jacobs also addressed how important this budget is for the University of North Georgia’s capabilities. The said the expansion project will allow better access. Jacobs noted that one capacity increase will be for more community events as she said, “I feel very strongly that the campus needs to be very tied into the community and very welcoming to the community. Right now we’re so tight for space. But we’ll have an auditorium, we’ll have an outdoor amphitheater that we can host or the city can come in and work with us and be available.”
Tied into the community has been a key phrase in the evolution of the University of North Georgia in Blue Ridge. With the groundbreaking ceremony of the current campus having only occurred in 2018 when Ralston helped secure $5.5 million for the new Blue Ridge Campus in the 2019 fiscal year budget. Now the state is committing to aid in the expansion of that same campus. Jacobs noted one of the areas that will be aided by the expansion includes medical courses. She stated, “We will be able to add more labs and expand our nursing program and to create much needed nurses for this regions.”
Governor Kemp also asserted the importance of education, health, and the care for citizens both physically and mentally as he spoke about the budget. Kemp stated, “This budget improves both the quality and access to education across the board. Between the amended budget I signed earlier and this one, we are investing more per K through 12 student than ever before in the history of our state.”
Georgia’s Lieutenant Governor, Geoff Duncan also praised both the budget and the investments into education like the UNG expansion saying, “I am certainly, personally, grateful for the effort and focus in this year’s budget on a couple of those initiatives that we have worked hard on in the Senate over the last few years. One is, I want to chase this dream of being the technology capital of the east coast. Certainly, a facility like this allows us to take on that and educate the 21st century global economy right here.
Kemp said after the ceremony that he has pushed for ways to aid Georgians in fighting the inflation and economic stress of the current presidency. Kemp stated, “What we’ve done at the state level, in conjunction with the Speaker, the Lt. Governor, and the Legislature, is try to give Georgians the ability to fight through 40-year high Biden inflation that we’re seeing right now because of bad policies.” Kemp noted the additional tax return money, cutting the fuel tax, and waiving some limits on trucks to help with supply chain issues as just a few of those efforts.
Alongside these statewide effects and reach of the signing ceremony for the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, the “historic day for Fannin County,” as Ralston called it, represents a commitment to the county for improving education at all levels, through the university expansion and support for the library in the city of Blue Ridge. Ralstion’s support for the expansion of the campus comes not only as a representative of the district in Georgia, but as an alumnus of the University of North Georgia.
The sentiment of the historic nature of the day for Fannin was echoed by many of the college’s representatives including Sandy Ott who said, “We are so thankful for Speaker Ralston’s support of this campus and University to allow us the opportunity to have this impact locally. Speaker Ralston is a tremendous supporter and his support is going to make a difference for students and their families in the community for years.”
Trump endorses Burt Jones for Lieutenant Governor of Georgia
Election, Politics, Press Release September 2, 2021JACKSON – Today, September 2, 2021, President Donald J. Trump endorsed conservative candidate Burt Jones for Lieutenant Governor of Georgia.
Both Trump and Jones have shared and forwarded the endorsement to numerous media outlets. Jones’ campaign also attached a statement saying, “In 2016 and 2020, Burt served as President Trump’s campaign co-chair in Georgia, and he was the first elected official in Georgia to endorse the President. As President Trump’s endorsement proves, Burt is the only candidate in the race for Lieutenant Governor who will safeguard and advance the America First agenda, fight for election integrity, and deliver results for hardworking Georgians.”
Trump’s endorsement stated: “State Senator Burt Jones is a Conservative warrior running for Lieutenant Governor of Georgia. No one has fought harder for Election Integrity than Burt, and no state needs it more. A businessman and Patriot, Burt will always stand for America First, and will help bring back Energy Independence, a Stronger Border, Low Taxes, Great Education, and Safe Cities. He will also get to the bottom of the Nov. 3 Presidential Election Scam. Burt Jones has my Complete and Total Endorsement. He will not let the great people of Georgia down!”
In an email statement today, Burt Jones responded by saying, “I am honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of President Donald J. Trump in my campaign for Lieutenant Governor of Georgia. I am the only person in my race who has had the President’s back from day one, and it’s an honor to have his full support. As Lieutenant Governor, I will work to advance the President’s America First agenda and continue to grow our economy, improve our schools, secure our elections, and keep Georgia safe. I look forward to traveling the state and meeting with the good people of Georgia as we work toward a big win in November 2022.”
5,355 turnout to early vote in Fannin County
Election, Election 2018, News November 3, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Lines filled the hall of the third floor of the Fannin County Courthouse on Friday Nov. 2 as citizens awaited a chance to cast their ballots in the 2018 General Election.
The last day of early voting saw an all time record high turnout for a single day of voting in Fannin County with 539 residents choosing to have their voices heard.
Both state and local races have had the residents of Fannin County paying close attention to the future of Georgia.
With the Governor’s Race, between Brian Kemp (Republican-R) and Stacey Abrams (Democrat-D), making national headlines, talk of the importance of this race rang out as voters waited in line. Some expressed their feelings of “not letting Atlanta speak for all of Georgia” while others spoke of a “much needed change”.
Despite differing views, those waiting in line Friday kept discourse civil.
Locally 3 seats are up for grabs in Fannin County. Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner is without an incumbent and the seat will fall to either Glenn Patterson (R) or Dixie Carter (D).
The Fannin County Board of Education has 2 seats that are seen on the 2018 General Election ballot. One seat has challenger Jeff DePaola (D) facing incumbent Bobby Bearden (R), and another seat has two newcomers Mike Cole (R) and Susan DeMoura (D) seeking the nomination.
There is no denying the importance of the 2018 General Election to local voters when looking at a comparison of past early voting records.
According to the Fannin County Office of Elections and Registration, in 2016 Fannin County had 15,385 registered voters. This number has risen to 17,361 registered voters in 2018.
The 2016 General Election had a record number of voters showing up to the polls due to the highly intense presidential race and Fannin County saw 5,922 early voters at that time. Move forward to 2018, without a presidential election in play, and Fannin County early voting still showed a strong turnout with 5,355 early voters.
With most statewide races being dubbed “too close to call” and several key local seats up for grabs, this Tuesday Nov. 6 is sure to see a large voter turnout in Fannin County and across the state of Georgia.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Raffensperger wins nomination for Secretary of State
Election, Election 2018 July 24, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Brad Raffensperger has defeated David Belle Isle in the July Runoff Election.
Raffensperger and Belle Isle vied for the Republican nomination to seek the seat of Georgia Secretary of State. The Secretary of State seat is open with no incumbent as current Secretary of State Brian Kemp moves forward in the gubernatorial race.
With all 159 counties reporting, Raffensperger was able to receive 61.76 percent of the vote while Belle Isle fell short only receiving 38.24 percent.
Raffensperger will move forward to the November General Election where he will face Democratic nominee John Barrow.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Duncan wins tightest race in July Runoff
Election, Election 2018 July 24, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Geoff Duncan narrowly beats out David Shafer in the July Runoff Election.
In what was by far the closest race to take place during the runoff, Duncan beat out Shaffer by a mere 1672 votes. In some precincts across the state this race showed wins by a margin of only 2 votes.
Duncan and Shafer vied for the Republican nomination to seek the seat of Georgia Lt. Governor. The Lt. Governor seat is open with no incumbent as current Lt. Governor Casey Cagle chose to throw his name in the hat for the Republican nomination in the gubernatorial race.
With all 159 counties reporting, Duncan was able to receive 50.15 percent of the vote while Shafer fell short receiving 49.85 percent.
Duncan will move forward to the November General Election where he will face Democratic nominee Sarah Riggs Amico.
July Runoff Election Results
Election 2018 July 24, 2018***UPDATED: Tue. July 24 @ 11:38 p.m.
With the July Runoff Election officially coming to a close, candidates have now been selected for the Nov. General Election.
Locally Challenger Glenn Patterson won the Republican nomination for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner over Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee receiving 64.45 percent of the vote. Patterson will go on to face Democrat Dixie Carter in the General Election.
In another upset Challenger Mike Cole was able to beat out Incumbent Steve Stanley for the Republican nomination and recieved 52.69 percent of the runoff vote. Cole will now face Democratic opponent Susan DeMoura for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education.
Having already been decided in the May General Primary, the the second seat with the Fannin County Board of Education that is open for election will see Incumbent Bobby Bearden (R) face Challenger Jeff DePaola (D).
After what became dubbed as a “nasty” campaign by many, Secretary of State Brian Kemp has won the Republican gubernatorial nomination over his opponent, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, and will face Stacey Abrams (D) in the General Election.
Another closely watched campaign has come to a close as Geoff Duncan beat out opponent David Shafer and will represent Republicans in Nov. as he moves on to face Sarah Riggs Amico for the seat of Georgia Lt. Governor.
The Secretary of State seat was also seen in the 2018 runoff. Brad Raffensperger was able to defeat David Belle Isle for the Republican nomination. Raffensperger is set to face John Barrow (D) in November.
The General Election will be held Nov. 6, 2018.
*These election results are unofficial until being certified by the Secretary of State’s office.
**The results for state seats in this article reflect the voters of Fannin County only and do not reflect voting statewide.
FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER
Glenn Patterson (R) – 64.45% 2114 votes (Challenger)
Larry Joe Sosebee (R) – 35.55% 1166 votes (Incumbent)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Steve Stanley (R) – 47.31% 1529 votes (Incumbent)
Mike Cole (R) – 52.69% 1703 votes (Challenger)
GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
Casey Cagle (R) – 33.94% 1113 votes
Brian Kemp (R) – 66.06% 2166 votes
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
David Shafer (R) – 50.03% 1518 votes
Geoff Duncan (R) – 49.97% 1516 votes
SECRETARY OF STATE CANDIDATES:
Brad Raffensperger (R) – 62.28% 1768 votes
David Belle Isle (R) – 37.72% 1071 votes
STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT CANDIDATES:
Sid Chapman (D) – 57.89% 44 votes
Otha Thornton (D) – 42.11% 32 votes
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Voting ends today for July runoff election
Election 2018 July 24, 2018Blue Ridge, Ga. – Today is the day that Georgians will be able to see a finalized list of candidates that will face off for varying seats statewide.
Locally, Fannin County saw a remarkable turnout during the early voting period of the July run-off. Historically, run-off elections tend to see a much lower voter turnout than the May General Primary.
With only a 25 percent turnout for the general primary, both parties were left discouraged and it was expected that we would only see approximately 15 percent make it out to cast their ballots during the run-off.
So far this has not been the case. Fannin County reported that 1161 total votes were cast during early voting and 163 paper ballots were received for the runoff election. Compare these numbers to the May General Primary which saw 1259 total votes and 224 paper ballots and it appears that the run-off is on course to closely match the initial turnout in May.
Much of the interest in the runoff election can be attributed to the gubernatorial race for the Republican nomination. This race between Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Secretary of State Brian Kemp has become what many deem “nasty”. This race has, however, brought out big name endorsements including retired Lt. Colonel Oliver North and even the President of the United States Donald J. Trump.
While state offices are getting quite a bit of attention, Fannin County also has two positions on the Republican ballot.
The Republican nomination for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner seat has garnered its own recognition as Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee and Challenger Glenn Patterson continue to vie for a chance to face Democrat Dixie Carter in the Nov. General Election.
One seat with the Fannin County Board of Education will also be seen on the Republican ballot. Incumbent Steve Stanley and Challenger Mike Cole hope to receive the Republican nomination and move forward to face Democrat Susan DeMoura in Nov.
Polls will be open until 7 p.m. this evening. Follow FetchYourNews as we will bring you the latest updates regarding the July run-off election results.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Nita Cagle speaks about life on the campaign trail
Election 2018 May 7, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Georgia’s current Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle continues to make his way across the state in his bid to become Georgia’s next governor. Recently, Cagle made stops through north Georgia as part of his campaign on a two-week venture dubbed the “Cagle Country Bus Tour.”
While supporters and undecided voters alike packed venues to hear the candidate speak in their hometown, many were surprised to see another Cagle family member emerge from the bus to give her take on why Casey Cagle, her husband, should be Georgia’s next governor.
Nita Cagle has been by Casey’s side for 32 years. In those 32 years, the Cagles have raised three sons and are currently enjoying the addition of three grandchildren to the family, but raising a family and having a life in politics has not always been easy.
Cagle holds the title of Second Lady of the State of Georgia, but she said what she is most proud of is her title as wife, mother and now grandmother of the Cagle household.
“I’m the inaugural member of team Cagle,” Georgia’s Second Lady joked as she spoke of the family’s early years in politics.
Casey Cagle first ran for Georgia Senate District 49 in 1994. At that time, both of the Cagles were in their late 20s and just beginning a family.
“Casey had helped a friend run a campaign,” Cagle spoke of how their life in public service began. “Over the next couple of years, I saw the spark start.”
Cagle admits that when she first noticed Casey was showing interest in this field, that she was “a little hesitant” to jump on board but says that her faith changed her attitude.
“I had many nights, many talks, and eventually a calmness just came over me, and I was okay with it. So when he came to me and said this is something that is on my heart, I already knew,” Cagle spoke candidly of her acceptance to stand by Casey as he joined the political arena.
When asked if she felt she had known of Casey’s intentions before he spoke openly of them, Cagle laughed and said, “Actually, he probably already knew. It was just ‘How am I going to tell Nita?'”
This career move was not always smooth as Cagle had to adapt to managing her time: “The boys were young. You’re divided because you want to be with them both, be a mom and be a wife.”
Ultimately,, through family discussions, Cagle decided that she would become a strong foundation for her family at home.
“You only get one time at it,” Cagle explained of the decision and the importance of having an active role in a child’s life. “You don’t get a do-over.”
This decision did pose obstacles for the Cagles to overcome as the now Lt. Governor was often called away for his job and for campaigns, but Cagle explained these obstacles are no different than what many families face: “Whether it’s politics, any job is going to put stress. No marriage is going to be without stress.”
Cagle explained that she has been blessed in that despite the calling of Casey’s career, he has always put his family first: “He’s a homebody, and if it is humanly possible to come home, he is coming home.”
With their children grown, Cagle said being on the campaign trail this time has a much different feel: “It absolutely was harder as they were younger. It got a lot easier as they got older. I’m really energized. I’m really enjoying it.”
Having grown children poses a set of new and exciting challenges when it comes to time management, as Cagle announced that their youngest son recently proposed to his girlfriend and would like to wed in the fall shortly before the November General Election.
This announcement did not slow Cagle down as she smiled and enthusiastically explained, “What better thing to do in the middle of all this craziness, than to shut it all down and to celebrate family, remember why we do it to start with, and welcome a new daughter-in-law into our family.”
Cagle added that having been in a house of men for so long, and with her two older sons already married she is excited for the wedding and glad that the male to female ratio is evening out.
With the prospect of becoming Georgia’s First Lady, Cagle has given a lot of time to her platform and her mission if given this duty: “I have several things that I have thought about, and I may or may not narrow down.”
Having obtained a degree and having a background in early childhood education, Cagle taught preschool for a number of years.
“I specifically love the preschool age,” Cagle smiled as she discussed one of her goals if given the title of First Lady of Georgia.
Cagle would like to see preschool education expanded and offered throughout Georgia. She cited the importance of teaching children at a young age and how this early nurturing can carry over throughout their life.
Knowing that not every child is able to receive this kind of early start at home, Cagle would like to see this program offered in more areas, stating that the work put into a child at an early age will benefit society for generations to come.
Cagle would also like to put a focus on small businesses throughout Georgia. She and husband Casey got their start by establishing a small business, so she knows first-hand the struggles that entrepreneurs face.
“I would like to champion them, and spotlight them,” Cagle said, explaining her passion for this area. She noted that small businesses make up a large portion of the Georgia economy, and she would like to see “mom and pop shops” continue to set up and succeed in our state.
Finally, Cagle discussed an issue that has come up time and time again on the campaign trail and that is of the opioid epidemic that is not just facing the state of Georgia but affecting countless families nationwide.
From speaking with residents in Georgia, Cagle is left with one strong impression when it comes to the opioid epidemic: “It’s everywhere. It does not discriminate. We hear the same story over and over. It’s repeated everywhere.”
While Cagle admits that she is by no means an expert when it comes to this crisis, she says that she cannot deny the need to address the issue and “get the conversation going.” She stated that by hearing the heartbreaking stories from families affected by opioid addiction she understands the depth of the problem and that it will not be an easy one to combat.
Being a multifaceted issue with a number of areas that need to be addressed, Cagle said, “If we are blessed enough to be elected, the platform is going to put me in a position to do good and open doors for the people that know about it.”
Cagle would like to increase awareness of the opioid epidemic and at least on one front open the doors for mentoring programs where families struggling with this issue can speak with former addicts on how to help loved ones.
Cagle also acknowledged the successes being seen through Georgia’s Drug Courts and would like to study the impacts of possibly expanding these programs.
Nita Cagle beams a confidence and sincerity in all that she speaks of, but perhaps her biggest conviction is in that of her husband’s ability to make a great governor of Georgia.
“The best way to know the kind of leader or character a person is going to have is to look into the home, and that is what I bring to the table,” Cagle stated, smiling at her husband. “I’ve been married to a man that is consistent every single day.”
She spoke of his competitive drive and his ability to connect with people but said he is also a fair man and one she is proud to have spent the last 32 years by his side.
Cagle’s birthday is May 23, just one day after the General Primary, and she stated this year she doesn’t want any gifts from her husband but instead, “I just want a good clean win on the 22nd with no run-off.”
“He says it’s mathematically virtually impossible,” Cagle said, explaining her husband’s response to her wish, but she then added with her contagious smile, “I have seen him do the impossible before.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
State Republicans will now move to a July Runoff
Election 2018, Politics May 23, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – The Georgia gubernatorial race has heated up as Lt. Governor Casey Cagle will now face Secretary of State Brian Kemp in the July General Primary runoff.
Cagle and Kemp emerged as front runners in the General Primary, with Cagle showing a slight edge over Kemp by receiving 39 percent of the votes (227,170 total votes). Kemp was not far behind having received 26 percent or 150,051 total votes.
The two candidates will move forward in a nine-week runoff and the winner of this race will move on to face Democrat Stacey Abrams in the November General Election.
Abrams won, receiving 76 percent of the votes (373,829 total votes), over fellow Democratic party candidate Stacey Evans.
While a Republican runoff was anticipated in the Georgia gubernatorial race, other state elections saw similar fates.
Georgia Lieutenant Governor front-runner David Shafer fell shy of a clear win. Shafer pulled in a majority of the votes, 256,230 in total, but this was not enough to avoid a runoff. With Shafer only claiming 49 percent, he will now face Geoff Duncan in July.
Duncan came in a distant second to Shafer receiving 27 percent of the votes (140,741 total votes).
The winner of this runoff will face Democrat Sarah Riggs Amico in the November General Election. Amico pulled in 56 percent of the votes (245,325 total votes) defeating opponent Triana James who received 44 percent.
Campaigns have not ended for Brad Raffensperger or David Belle Isle as they will also face off in the General Primary runoff for Georgia Secretary of State.
Raffensperger received 35 percent of the votes (178,502 total votes), moving him into top position. Belle Isle, however, was not far behind having received 29 percent or 145,915 total votes.
Democrat John Barrow will face the winner of this runoff in the November General Election. Barrow was able to make a clean win with 52 percent over challengers Dee Dawkins-Haigler and Rakeim Hadley.
The General Primary runoff will take place July 24, 2018.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Fannin County and State Election Results 2018
Election 2018 May 22, 2018UPDATED MAY 22, 2018 @ 10:15 p.m.
The May General Primary came to a close in Fannin County. As many had predicted some races locally will now be voted on in the General Primary Runoff.
Republican candidates will now choose between challenger Glenn Patterson and incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee for the seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner. Patterson received 1678 votes totaling 47.77 percent and Sosesbee received 1100 votes totaling 31.31 percent. Democrat Dixie Carter will face the winner of this race in the Nov. General Election.
A seat with the Fannin County Board of Education will also be seen on the General Primary Runoff ballot. Incumbent Steve Stanley will face challenger Mike Cole. Stanley received 1440 votes totaling 42.04% and Cole received 875 totaling 25.55%. The winner of this race will run against Democrat Susan DeMoura in the Nov. General Election.
Incumbent Bobby Bearden beat out challenger Marvin Allen in the closest local race for the Republican nomination. Bearden will now run for a seat on the Fannin County Board of Education against Democratic challenger Jeff DePaola.
The General Primary Runoff will be held on July 24, 2018.
*These election results are unofficial until being certified by the Secretary of State’s office.
**The results for state seats in this article reflect the voters of Fannin County only and do not reflect voting statewide. Statewide results can be viewed at : https://fetchyournews.com/election/election-and-politics/ga-state-election-results-2018/
FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER
Glenn Patterson (R) – 47.77% 1678 votes (Challenger in General Primary Runoff)
Larry Joe Sosebee (R) – 31.31% 1100 votes (Incumbent in General Primary Runoff)
William “Tripp” Ritchie (R) – 20.92% 735 votes
Dixie Carter (D) – 100% 408 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Bobby Bearden (R) – 52.29% 1782 votes (Primary Winner : Moves forward to General Election)
Marvin Allen (R) – 47.71% 1626 votes
Jeff DePaola (D) – 100% 371 of votes (Moves forward to General Election)
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
Steve Stanley (R) – 42.04% 1440 votes (Incumbent in General Primary Runoff)
Mike Cole (R) – 25.55% 875 votes (Challenger in General Primary Runoff)
Ron Bolin (R) – 17.69% 606 votes
Mike Sullivan (R) – 14.72% 504 votes
Susan DeMoura (D) – 100% 395 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
GEORGIA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 7
David Ralston (R) – Totals – 75.10% 3,529 votes (Primary Winner : Moves forward to General Election)
Results by County:
Gilmer: 70.80% 536 votes
Fannin: 75.99% 2674 votes
Dawson: 75.41% 319 votes
Margaret Williamson (R) – Totals – 24.90% 1,170 votes
Results by County:
Gilmer: 29.19% 221 votes
Fannin: 24.01% 845 votes
Dawson: 24.59% 104 votes
Rick Day (D) – Totals – 100% 570 votes (Moves forward to General Election)
Results by County:
Gilmer: 100% 92 votes
Fannin: 100% 373 votes
Dawson: 100% 105 votes
2018 Georgia Primary Election Results
GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
Casey Cagle (R) – 38.03% 1351 votes
Brian Kemp (R) – 27.79% 987 votes
Hunter Hill (R) – 16.13% 573 votes
Clay Tippins (R) – 9.99% 355 votes
Michael Williams (R) – 7.07% 251 votes
Eddie Hayes (R) – 0.68% 24 votes
Marc Urbach (R) – 0.31% 11 votes
Stacey Abrams (D) – 61.37% 286 votes
Stacey Evans (D) – 38.63% 180 votes
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR CANDIDATES:
David Shafer (R) – 47.14% 1475 votes
Geoff Duncan (R) – 27.13% 849 votes
Rick Jeffares (R) – 25.73% 805 votes
Sarah Riggs Amico (D) – 77.98% 340 votes
Triana Arnold James (D) – 22.02% 96 votes
SECRETARY OF STATE CANDIDATES:
Brad Raffensperger (R) – 37.95% 1109 votes
David Belle Isle (R) – 30.56% 893 votes
Buzz Brockway (R) – 15.85% 463 votes
Josh McKoon (R) – 15.64% 457 votes
John Barrow (D) – 52.33% 225 votes
Dee Dawkins-Haigler (D) – 34.65% 149 votes
R.J. Hadley (D) – 13.02% 56 votes
Smythe Duval (I) – N/A
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES:
Jim Beck (R) – 62.95% 1886 votes
Tracy Jordan (R) – 18.86% 565 votes
Jay Florence (R) – 18.19% 545 votes
Cindy Zeldin (D) – 54.57% 221 votes
Janice Laws (D) – 45.43% 184 votes
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER CANDIDATES:
District 3 –
Chuck Eaton (R) – 100% 2580 votes
Lindy Miller (D) – 67.47% 280 votes
John Noel (D) – 24.10% 100 votes
Johnny White (D) – 8.43% 35 votes
District 5 –
Tricia Pridemore (R) – 52.39% 1559 votes
John Hitchins III (R) – 47.61% 1417 votes
Dawn Randolph (D) – 76.53% 313 votes
Doug Stoner (D) – 23.47% 96 votes
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
NRA endorses David Shafer
Election 2018, Politics April 17, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – The National Rifle Association (NRA) continues to unveil their endorsements for the upcoming May General Primary, and the latest announcement revealed their pick for the next Georgia Lieutenant Governor, Senator David Shafer.
Shafer currently serves as a State Senator of the Georgia State Senate, a position he has held since first being elected in 2002. Shafer also holds the title of President Pro Tempore. He has had this designation since 2013 when his fellow Senators unanimously elected him to this position.
Shafer received a letter from the Chairman of the NRA’s Political Victory Fund Chris Cox. In this letter Cox noted Shafer’s work in Georgia in regards to protecting Second Amendment rights: “Nearly every Second Amendment bill in the last 16 years has had your name attached to it.”
“David Shafer is a voice for freedom and faithful friend to Georgia’s law abiding gun owners,” Cox said explaining the decision made by the NRA, “This endorsement is a reflection of his unwavering support for the Second Amendment.”
Shafer received the Defender of Freedom award from the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action in 2013.
This award came after Shafer’s key role in passing Senate Bill 101 by an overwhelming majority in the Georgia Senate.
The bill essentially made what the NRA deemed as “several important changes to Georgia firearms laws”. Among these changes were increasing reciprocity for out-of-state concealed carry permit holders and preempting a ban on firearms in public housing giving residents the ability to defend themselves regardless of their economic stature.
Shafer has long held an A+ rating with the NRA Political Victory Fund and the NRA says of Shafer that he is “one of the nation’s strongest champions of the Second Amendment.”
“The framers of the Constitution intended for us to be able to defend ourselves,” Shafer said. “I am proud of my record fighting for the Second Amendment rights of every law abiding Georgian.”
The NRA’s endorsement is sure to pull some weight in the upcoming May General Primary. There are currently more than 100,000 active members of the NRA in the state of Georgia.
The May General Primary is scheduled to take place May 22, 2018. Voter registration deadline for this General Primary is April 23.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Casey Cagle receives NRA endorsement
Election 2018, Featured, News, Politics April 13, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – The National Rifle Association (NRA) announced its pick for Georgia’s next governor and released that the association would officially be backing Casey Cagle. Not all Republican candidates are happy with the NRA’s decision.
With more than 100,000 active members in the state of Georgia, the NRA’s endorsement is sure to pull some weight in the upcoming May General Primary.
Earning an A+ rating from the NRA for each year that he has served in office, this is not the first time that Cagle has been endorsed by the organization.
“Gun ownership is a right that Georgians take seriously, and the NRA endorsement is the gold standard in our state,” Cagle said, explaining his enthusiasm for receiving this endorsement. “I’m an avid outdoorsman, and I taught all three of my boys how to hunt, shoot and respect firearms. That’s an American legacy that I want to see handed down to my grandchildren and to the generations that follow them.”
“I’m honored and excited to have the NRA’s support because its cause is one that I share and that I have fought for,” Cagle continued. “I’m a lifetime member of the NRA, and I’m proud of my unwavering record for the Second Amendment. Like the NRA, I believe the framers of the Constitution meant what they said when they wrote that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed.”
Having already received backing from Educators First and the Georgia Realtors, the NRA endorsement makes a third announcement of support for Cagle this week.
The NRA endorsement comes on the heels of Secretary of State of the U.S. State of Georgia and Republican governor hopeful Brian Kemp sending an email to a top NRA lobbyist, Christopher Cox, concerning Cagle’s true allegiance to the organization.
In regard to Cagle’s stance on Delta Airlines and recent Georgia legislation passed, Kemp stated in the email, “The NRA is getting played.”
Kemp added, “As those of us involved in Georgia politics like to say … you’ve been ‘Casey Cagled.'”
Brian Kemp shared his thoughts with FetchYourNews on the recent announcement from the NRA: “The 2nd Amendment is not a talking point to me. It’s a way of life. I shoot, hunt, and carry – because we have the right to protect ourselves and defend our families from harm. As governor, I won’t compromise or play games for political gain.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Candidates qualify for 2018 Election
Election 2018 March 9, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Qualifying week has officially closed in the state of Georgia. Candidates made their intentions known as they filed in to get their names on the May General Primary ballot.
Statewide, Georgia has many seats up for grabs in the November General Election, including that of governor, which is currently held by Nathan Deal. Also being watched closely is the House of Representatives District 7 seat, which is currently held by Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston.
Locally, in Fannin County, three races are taking shape as candidates qualified to run for Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner and two of the five seats with the Fannin County Board of Education.
FANNIN COUNTY POST 2 COMMISSIONER
The seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner has been held by Incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee since 2011. Sosebee will be seeking a third term in office.
Dixie Carter qualified to run on the Democratic ballot for the seat of Fannin County Post 2 Commissioner. Carter will run unopposed as a Democrat and will automatically advance forward to the General Election taking place Nov. 6, 2018.
Qualifiers on the Republican ballot for the seat of Post 2 Commissioner include incumbent Larry Joe Sosebee, and challengers Glenn Patterson and William “Tripp” Ritchie.
FANNIN COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
The Fannin County Board of Education (BOE) has two seats currently up for election in 2018.
The first of the two seats is held by incumbent Bobby Bearden. Bearden has been a member of the BOE for 16 years and is seeking another four-year term.
The second of the two seats being sought after on the BOE is currently held by incumbent Steve Stanley. Stanley has held a seat on the BOE for eight years.
Jeff DePaola has qualified on the Democratic ballot to run for the BOE seat currently held by Bearden. DePaola faces no other Democratic challengers and will automatically advance to the November General Election.
Incumbent Bearden will face a challenger, Marvin Allen, for the Republican nomination in the May General Primary.
Susan DeMoura qualified on the Democratic ballot to run for the BOE seat currently held by Stanley. With no other Democratic challengers in this race, DeMoura will automatically advance to the November General Election.
Incumbent Stanley will face three challengers for the Republican nomination on the May General Primary ballot. These Republican challengers are Mike Cole, Mike Sullivan and Ron Bolin.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DISTRICT 7
The House of Representatives District 7 seat has caused much discussion since Margaret Williamson announced her intentions to run against Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston.
Ralston was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2002 and represents House District 7, which includes Fannin County, Gilmer County and a portion of Dawson County. Ralston is the 73rd Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, a position he has held since 2010.
Both incumbent Ralston and challenger Williamson have qualified to run for the Republican nomination on the May General Primary.
Democrat Rick Day has qualified and is running unopposed. Day will advance to the November General Primary and face off against either Williamson or Ralston for the seat of Georgia House of Representatives District 7.
GEORGIA LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
Georgia’s lieutenant governor is currently held by Casey Cagle. Cagle will not be seeking re-election for this seat as he has announced his intent to run in the Georgia governor race.
On the Democratic ballot in the May General Primary, voters will see Sarah Amico and Triana James run for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor in the November General Primary.
David Shafer, Geoff Duncan, and Rick Jaffares will face each other for the Republican nomination in the race for Georgia’s lieutenant governor.
GEORGIA GOVERNOR
The Georgia governor seat, currently held by Governor Nathan Deal, will be open without an incumbent.
Deal was first elected in 2010 and has served two consecutive four-year terms. According to Georgia state law, this seat is popularly elected every four years by a plurality and is limited to two consecutive terms.
Governor Deal has met the term limit criteria and will be ineligible to seek a third term in 2018.
The Democratic Party will have two candidates to choose from in the May General Primary. Stacey Abrams and Stacey Evans both qualified this week in hopes of seeking the Democratic nomination.
Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Casey Cagle, Marc Urbach, and Michael Williams will seek the Republican nomination in the May General Primary.
UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 9
The United States Representative District 9 seat is currently held by Doug Collins. Collins has served as a U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 9th Congressional District since 2013.
Collins will run on the Republican ballot unopposed and advance straight to the Nov. General Primary.
Dave Cooper and Josh McCall will be seen on the May General Primary in hopes of winning the Democratic nomination. The winner of this primary election will face Collins in the General Election.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Speaker, Governor & Lieutenant Governor Announce Tax Cut Plan
Politics, State & National February 21, 2018Gov. Nathan Deal, along with Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and House Speaker David Ralston, today outlined updates to HB 918, which addresses state tax code. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Chuck Efstration, now combines the 2017 Internal Revenue Code (IRC) bill, HB 821, with 2018 IRC updates. It also addresses the state revenue projections resulting from the Federal Tax Act.
HB 918 would double the standard deduction for Georgia taxpayers for all filing statuses, effective Jan. 1, 2018. It would also reduce the income tax rate for individuals and businesses from 6 percent to 5.75 percent effective Jan. 1, 2019. Finally, the legislation includes a provision further reducing the tax rate to 5.5 percent, effective Jan. 1, 2020. This reduction would require approval of the General Assembly and signature of the governor in order to take effect.
The bill will also help our state be more competitive by eliminating the sales tax on jet fuel, which will encourage airlines to fly additional direct flights from Georgia to destinations around the globe.
“Taxpayers have already started to experience the positive effects of federal tax reform here in Georgia and throughout the country,” said Deal. “Our state is also projected to benefit significantly in the coming years. The legislation presented today is a result of ongoing dialogue between House and Senate leadership and addresses Georgia’s projected windfall while balancing the state’s fiscal health and protecting our AAA bond rating.
“This bill keeps more of taxpayers’ hard-earned money in their pockets by doubling the standard deduction and reducing income tax rates. It will save taxpayers more than $5 billion over the next five years. Doubling the standard deduction will also allow Georgia filers to take fuller advantage of the newly enhanced federal standard deduction. Further, these combined changes mark one of the biggest income tax cuts in state history, and does so in a fiscally responsible manner. The standard deduction was last increased in 1981. The individual rate was set at 6 percent in 1937 and has not changed since, while the corporate rate has also remained at 6 percent since 1969. I’m confident HB 918 will be passed by the General Assembly quickly and immediately transmitted to my desk. The sooner I sign this landmark reform legislation, the sooner taxpayers may file.”
“This historic tax cut lowers Georgia’s income tax rate for the first time ever, returning significant savings to millions of families across our state,” said Cagle. “Most importantly, this framework sets the stage for continued reductions – building on the Trump administration’s tax reform to allow Georgians to keep more of what they earn.”
“I am committed to keeping the tax burden on Georgians as low as possible,” said Ralston. “This measure is yet another example of the General Assembly working with Governor Deal to empower families to save more of their money. I appreciate the Governor’s leadership and the cooperation between the House and the Senate in developing this income tax cut legislation. I look forward to it moving quickly through the legislative process.”
Geoff Duncan speaks on why he should be Georgia’s next Lt. Governor
Election 2018, News, Politics February 27, 2018BLUE RIDGE, Ga. – Conservative Geoff Duncan, Georgia State Representative District 26, was guest speaker at the Feb. 19 Fannin County Republican meeting.
Duncan, who is currently running for Georgia’s Lieutenant Governor, spoke to the crowd about his candidacy and history in politics.
“It is an honor for me to run for Lieutenant Governor,” Duncan said, addressing Fannin County’s Republican Party.
Married with three sons, Duncan explained that his family is his team: “We’re doing this as a team. This is the hardest thing we have ever done.”
Duncan attended Georgia Tech and went on to play professional baseball with the Florida Marlins for six seasons. After his retirement from sports, Duncan focused on several successful entrepreneurial ventures.
“I certainly didn’t grow up in politics or my family have a life in politics. I didn’t go to law school, no offense against any attorneys,” Duncan joked as he explained his past and what sets him apart from other politicians. “I didn’t have this big appetite for politics growing up, but I was paying attention.”
It was during a church seminar that Duncan was inspired to become a public servant. While studying Andy Stanley’s Recovery Road, a revelation hit him.
“If we’re going to recover as a country, it’s got to start with us,” Duncan told attendees of the message that stuck with him from that seminar.
Duncan added, “We’ve gotten really good at complaining, but we’re not doing anything about it.”
Discussing the Conservative message, Duncan feels that it is lost because it is not shown by example from many of the Republican leaders: “We talk about prayer in school. I’ve never met a representative that doesn’t want prayer in school, but not enough representatives are praying with their kid next to their bed every night.”
Duncan was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2012 for the newly formed 26th District.
Since being elected to the Georgia House of Representatives, Duncan has authored several pieces of legislation such as HB 749-The Cargo Theft Act. Before the enactment of the Cargo Theft Act, criminals in the state of Georgia who stole vehicles carrying cargo were only charged with theft of the vehicle and not the cargo it was hauling.
With the passing of the Cargo Theft Act, penalties for such a crime are much stiffer, and Duncan cites that crime of this nature decreased by 68 percent within the first year of the bill being enforced.
Duncan also authored HB 152-Michael’s Law, which states that individuals must be at least 21 years of age to enter an establishment whose primary business revenue is in the sale of alcohol.
Most recently, Duncan authored SB 258-the Rural Healthcare Bill which is said to bring over $250 million to Georgia’s rural hospitals.
Duncan is also a strong proponent of tax reform on a state level: “We, as Republicans, have got to stop taxing people because we can get away with it.”
Some of the duties of Georgia’s Lieutenant Governor include picking or being a heavy influence in the decision of committee chairs and members. The Lieutenant Governor also is charged with the process of deciding which pieces of legislation come to the floor of the Georgia House of Representatives.
Duncan concluded, “I am running for Lieutenant Governor because I think I can do it better, I think I can do it bolder, and I think I can create a culture that rewards good policy over good politics.”
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]