Your morning jolt: Nathan Deal up with first TV ad in runoff
We’ve got a busy morning ahead, including lunch with the Cobb County Republican Women’s Club and the first face-to-face between Nathan Deal and Karen Handel in the runoff for governor.
So just a short jolt.
Deal becomes the first up on TV today, with the ad below aimed at metro Atlanta.
In political terms, a sweeter-than-sweet 30-second spot featuring a grandfather talking to his grandsons can have only two functions.
It might be intended as a palette-cleanser after a primary that left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Republicans. Or it might be an inoculation for a candidate who knows he’s going to be leveling harsh attacks on his female opponent – and needs to reinforce his credentials as a solid family man.
The script:
Noah: Papa, why do you want to be governor?
Deal: ‘Cause grown-ups in Washington are just spending too much money. They’re hurting us here at home.
Noah: Really?
Deal: Yes, and I want to fight back by giving more jobs and lower taxes so people can keep more of their money.
Ethan: Why, Papa?
Deal: Ethan, because I love the people of the state of Georgia almost as much as I love you and Noah.
Female voiceover: Pro-life. Real conservative. Real results.
***
In the (sigh) 9th District congressional runoff, former state senator Lee Hawkins of Gainesville is pointing to Republican incumbent Tom Graves’ Wednesday vote against a bill to ban “crush videos” featuring small animals being stepped on — and worse.
Graves and fellow Georgian Paul Broun were two of the three U.S. House members opposing the ban. All other House members from Georgia, Democrat and Republican, voted for the measure.
Said Hawkins, in a press release:
“There are more reasons to make a stand against this type of practice than there are to ever allow it to continue,” Hawkins said. “I believe the people of North Georgia would loudly voice their support for banning pornographic videos showing animals being trampled to death.”
Hawkins said that if he were in Congress, his name would have appeared in the “yes” column in passing the proposed House legislation.
“There is a very small and disturbing market in this country for these perverse videos, and the right thing to do is end access to these materials,” Hawkins added. “I support this effort to bring closure to the ‘crush video’ genre once and for all.”
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91 comments Add your comment
Noo Raw Deal, Noooo King Roy
July 23rd, 2010
8:42 am
The name say it ALL
deegee
July 23rd, 2010
8:42 am
There is nothing more disgusting than a person that was a US congressman for 18 years complaining about what has been going on in Washington. Maybe he can pull the wool over his grandsons’ eyes but he’s not fooling anyone else with that baloney.
atlantadomer
July 23rd, 2010
8:43 am
Please Republicans – choose wisely. Pick someone who will do what’s best for this State and not for their own career as the future VP pick of a certain Alaska beauty queen or Boston Mormon.
Do I like Deal – not really, but he doesn’t outright terrify me like Handel does.
If you want Georgia decisions to be made 5000 miles away in Wasilla, vote Handel.
Reginald
July 23rd, 2010
8:44 am
That is so sweet Nathan, and since you love your grandkids so much, we are going to make sure you spend your golden years at home with them for the rest of your life!
Bubba
July 23rd, 2010
8:51 am
Do we want Georgia to become the only state in the US with both a Governor and a Lt. Governor who didn’t graduate from college? The late night comedy folks would never let us forget it. And the joke would not be lost of any business that could bring good new jobs to Georgia. They would just go on to NC, TN, FL, AL, or practically anyplace that values education more than Georgians must.
????
July 23rd, 2010
8:51 am
Looks like Rangel should have quit moved to Georgia and run for governor
Tom
July 23rd, 2010
8:53 am
On the cutting-room floor…..
Noah: Papa, will “Aunt” Mandy be on TV again telling lies about Mrs. Handel and “the gayz”? She knows you and her daddy-in-law are crooks but she seems to love you, anyway. Oh, yeah, she’s kinda hot, too.”
????
July 23rd, 2010
8:53 am
Deal and Obama have Law Degrees, what have either done for you? Vote for a Honest Woman not a Corrupt Washington Politician.
deegee
July 23rd, 2010
8:57 am
I would like to see a ban on campaign videos that use minor children to perpetrate a lie.
You Asked
July 23rd, 2010
8:59 am
But Papa weren’t you one of the grownups in Washington? Why didn’t you do something about it there?
You Asked
July 23rd, 2010
9:00 am
@Degee – You would put a lot of child actors and puppy trainers out of work. We need to support the working child in this economy. (snark)
lmno
July 23rd, 2010
9:03 am
Ah, children used as political props.
Just melts the heart, don’t it?
Deal is a goofy bumpkin
July 23rd, 2010
9:06 am
Does this ad make you want to be a tourist in GA? Nope! This unsophisticated ad will drive all potential business out of GA. Deal looks like he is headed to the rural BBQ stand for a snack. He does’nt look the part for Gov. He might have a future on Hee-Haw!
Deal Up On TV First — Peach Pundit
July 23rd, 2010
9:06 am
[...] Hat Tip: Political Insider [...]
Deal Up On TV First — Peach Pundit
July 23rd, 2010
9:06 am
[...] Hat Tip: Political Insider [...]
PunishTheTraitors
July 23rd, 2010
9:11 am
The only crimes over which the States delegated jurisdiction to the federal government via the Constitution are:
1) counterfeiting the Securities and current Coin of the United States;
2) Piracy;
3) felonies committed on the high Seas;
4) Offenses against the Law of Nations; and
5) treason.
Every Congressman who voted to criminalize an act not authorized in the Constitution, no matter how heinous that act, not only violated their oath to God to uphold the Constitution but also committed treason and should be punished as traitors.
If it ain't pretty,don't put it on the front poarch
July 23rd, 2010
9:12 am
This ad could make a Pro-Life-er become Pro Choice!
Republicans for Roy Barnes
July 23rd, 2010
9:16 am
I would not be voting for 2 people who dont have a clue how to run Georgia. Handel=Palin and Deal=Demoncrate=Clinton….The best choice is Roy Barnes, which I dont want to vote for Barnes but what choice I have left. Republicans for Roy Barnes.
cmob
July 23rd, 2010
9:23 am
Billy is that you?
You Asked
July 23rd, 2010
9:27 am
@Republicans for Roy Barnes…
If you aren’t already a staffer for Barnes you should be. You have managed to post the same print bite on every article since the primary.
You aren’t quite up to the level of Morrus’ anti-incumbant message but you are getting there. In fact I suspect you could be Morrus.
Oh well. Enjoy your freedom of speech. I won’t try to stop you.
Aquagirl
July 23rd, 2010
9:27 am
Noah: Papa, I want to play with Barbie instead of G.I. Joe.
Deal: Well, then I want to take your money and give it to other people. Grandpa can use you as a scapegoat to get elected. Isn’t that nice?
Athens Voter
July 23rd, 2010
9:27 am
Tom Graves needs to give it up. Paul Broun is already the Official Georgia Nut.
Richie
July 23rd, 2010
9:28 am
deal is a bad deal……..Boy roy is weird……
You Asked
July 23rd, 2010
9:28 am
“…lunch with the Cobb County Republican Women’s Club and the first face-to-face between Nathan Deal and Karen Handel in the runoff for governor.”
Sound like fertile ground for a food fight.
vomitando
July 23rd, 2010
9:47 am
It is so nauseating to see political candidates use small children to as their props.
How exactly is Deal as Governor going to stop Washington from spending money?
Reject the stimulus money and leave a giant gap in Georgia’s budget?
Hurl.
Mark
July 23rd, 2010
9:54 am
Noah: Papa is it true that you resigned your seat in congress so you would not face ethics charges?
Deal: Yes Noah, I believe that if I was found guilty I would not have a very good chance at becoming the next Gov of Georgia.
Noah: Papa I am so glad you were able to keep this from your supporters because I really want to play in the Governors mansion one day.
Deal: Noah I do to!
Georgia needs a real leader, Vote Karen Handel on August 10th!
lmno
July 23rd, 2010
10:00 am
“Ethan, because I love the people of the state of Georgia almost as much as I love you and Noah”
This should have been, “Ethan, because I love power more than you. Also, I don’t like brown people or gays”
T-Bone
July 23rd, 2010
10:15 am
Hey! That gubernatorial candidate has grandchildren! I do too! He’s just like us!
T-Bone
July 23rd, 2010
10:18 am
Noah: Papa, why do you want be governor?
Deal: Noah, because the President wasn’t born in this country, and I want to fight back.
Ethan: Papa, is Grandma a ghetto grandmother?
Really?
July 23rd, 2010
10:18 am
Leave it to Karen Handel’s staff to attack Nathan Deal’s grandchildren.
B. Thenet
July 23rd, 2010
10:24 am
Wouldn’t it be great if his Grandson said, “Since the Federal Government pays for 33% of our state’s budget, how do you plan to make up that shortfall if the money stops coming from Washington. Wouldn’t raising Georgian’s taxes and taking less from the Federal Government seem a more fiscally sound thing to do.”
timmy
July 23rd, 2010
10:30 am
Noah: Papa, why are you people calling you a crook?
Deal: Well, because a lot hate me because I have a lot of good friends who give me lots of money that’s not mine. I’m able to take that money and make ads with outrageous claims.
Ethan: Papa, do you hate gay people?
Deal: No, I love the gays, but I hate their sinnin’
Noah: Papa, is Mrs. Handel a baby killer?
Deal: Oh I wouldn’t put it like that, Noah. Mrs. Handel just doesn’t care about the unborn like you and me.
Boy, this is fun and will get better with each passing minute. Either the attention this causes helps or hurts him. We will see.
Bill Orvis White
July 23rd, 2010
10:43 am
This just brought tears to my eyes. It’s obvious that the Honorable Rep. Deal is prepared to be Georgia’s next governor on day one.
God Bless Nathan Deal and these grandchildren who are the best work of the Lord Almighty.
Amen,
Bill
The Penguin
July 23rd, 2010
10:46 am
The money green shirt is a nice touch too!
Aquagirl
July 23rd, 2010
10:57 am
This ad just screams for a parody. YouTuberers, start your engines!
Disgusted
July 23rd, 2010
11:00 am
Deal left the House to avoid an ethics investigation. I don’t understand what Obama or Washington have to do with being Governor of Georgia. Of course, without the stimulus money, Georgia’s financial problems would have been much worse. Personally, I think Obama’s biggest mistake with the stimulus was sending money to the states. Let the states raise their own money and then we would see of these so called conservatives would have the guts and constitution to either slash programs, lay off more teachers, close more schools, or raise taxes. As far as Deal is concerned, he is nothing but a crook. And his grandchildren in the ad are most like the children of Deal’s son Jason, an airhead judge in Dawson and Hall County, who without political connections, would never have been the DA or a Judge. The Deal family is a joke!
Mugwump
July 23rd, 2010
11:22 am
Those kids don’t look quite as gullible as Grand Pa might think. Odds are they recognize a fairy tale when they hear it. Can’t you just hear them giggling and snickering?
Dirty Dawg
July 23rd, 2010
11:32 am
‘Papa, tell me about that F-X thing that you cussed so much about just before you told us that you were gonna try to be a Governess?’..’What F-X thing Noah? I don’t know about F-X.’ – and it’s GoverNOR’…’You know, that committee that said you needed to go home to be with your family’…’Oh, ‘ethics’, well that was just a big misunderstanding…you see Noah people elect you to high office to help them and in return we get to do anything we want in order to make a lot of money…money for you and your brothers and sisters…see?’ ‘Oh yeah, I see now, you’re just a lyin’ sack of s**t like everybody at kindergarten says you are, ain’t ya?…Thanks for helping me understand, Papa.’
People R' STUPID
July 23rd, 2010
11:34 am
This ad isn’t an indictment of Deal, it’s an indictment of the SHEER STUPIDITY of the people, that some BS emotional plea that has NOTHING to do with the issues, or HOW Deal will address the issues, can be effective.
@Aquagirl
July 23rd, 2010
11:35 am
“This ad just screams for a parody. YouTuberers, start your engines!”
Good one Aquagirl. That really is the best way to combat nonsense like this. Make it blow up in their faces with a good parody.
Poor kids
July 23rd, 2010
11:48 am
Pretty sad to use young kids like that for political reasons.
Everything Nathan Deal does just screams fake to me.
Tosh.No
July 23rd, 2010
11:53 am
Atlanta Domer – You finish work today over at Deals offices there buddy? What kind of smoke has he got you on there buddy, cause that corrupt POS is the last person that needs to be in the Governors office.
Mugwump
July 23rd, 2010
11:55 am
Somebody please remind me what Deals “real results” were/ are.
Tosh.No
July 23rd, 2010
11:57 am
Leave it to Karen Handel’s staff to attack Nathan Deal’s grandchildren.
Who on Handel’s staff is attacking Deals grand kids. Really? I don’t recall reading that in the article, just seeing a lying sack of crap lying to the state of georgia.
np
July 23rd, 2010
11:58 am
“Deal on three occasions in the past year and a half met with state Revenue Commissioner Bart Graham to question proposed changes Graham wanted to make in the way Georgia inspects rebuilt salvaged vehicles. Deal coordinated his efforts through the office of a political ally, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.
Also, Deal’s chief of staff used his congressional e-mail account to contact Georgia Senate and Revenue Department staff to discuss the plans and to set appointments for Deal to meet with officials, including Cagle”
.http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/agreement-with-state-benefits-121572.html
Tosh.No
July 23rd, 2010
11:59 am
This ad isn’t an indictment of Deal, it’s an indictment of the SHEER STUPIDITY of the people, that some BS emotional plea that has NOTHING to do with the issues, or HOW Deal will address the issues, can be effective.
Ain’t that the truth. Which is why I have such little faith in our system anymore.
np
July 23rd, 2010
12:01 pm
“Deal and Ken Cronan own and operate Recovery Services Inc., also known as Gainesville Salvage & Disposal, which for nearly 20 years has enjoyed a lucrative agreement with the state that earned the company $1.5 million from 2004 through 2008, according to state records. The company provides a location and equipment for state inspectors to examine salvaged vehicles. Deal and Cronan never had to compete for the business, state officials said.”
np
July 23rd, 2010
12:05 pm
“Free marke conservatives” like no-compete state contracts.
np
July 23rd, 2010
12:07 pm
“Free market conservatives” with friends in high places reap great rewards.
T Knight
July 23rd, 2010
12:14 pm
Nathan Deal has about as much credibility as The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Don’t be fooled Georgia. Nathan Deal and Roy Barnes are attorney’s. Look at what hope and change has brought us.
The Penguin
July 23rd, 2010
12:16 pm
Oxymoron of the day: Free Market and tax breaks in the same sentence.
np
July 23rd, 2010
12:20 pm
Deal + Cagle
Fat Cats will feel the love,
Same as the past 8 years.
The rest of us are sheep to be fleeced.
Nathan4U
July 23rd, 2010
12:20 pm
Not the Best Deal Georgians can get in Nathan Deal. But if Republicans put Karen Handell up there it is going to be a gurantee landslide for Roy Barnes.
So make a choice Republicans = Nathan Deal or Roy Barnes Win to Karen Handell
I don’t like choosing from the lesser of two Evils, but hey, Don’t want Barnes there either!!!
Mugwump
July 23rd, 2010
12:20 pm
Deal is well known for his Gaineville gig and resignation. Those were for the benefit of him, his family and hjs friends. My question is: what positive results has Deal achieved that benefited the People and why should anyone vote for him. Just asking….
Too many bumkins
July 23rd, 2010
12:24 pm
We have too many country bumpkins running this state. Deal is Sonny the sequel. If it’s true that the first movie is always better then the sequel then we would be in for some hard times with Dirty Deals Done Dirt Cheap. Georgia is in need of some more sophisticated, well spoken and able leaders. Good old boys sound great while they talk their country smack at local events but they are far from effective in the state house. We have a few powerful guys leading a bunch if mental midgets around by the nose and before you know it we have a completely ineffective representative in for 15 or 20 years who has done nothing more than vote his party line. The Governor HAS to be brighter then the dim bulbs under the gold dome.
earl
July 23rd, 2010
12:30 pm
you know..it seems to me about 90% of bloggers on this story don’t have a clue what their talking about. they don’t take the time to really learn the truth about the candidates. they’re just poppong off at the mouth about something they’ve heard or read..not really knowing if it’s true or false. why don’t you spend more of you’re free time and attend some of these debates and listen to handel and deal discuss the real issues in this campaign. you know deal has challenged handel to two debates each week up until the run off..and ray mcberry is not around anymore so handel has no reason to avoid the debate. i’m sick and tired of lying, mud slinging, negative, un-informed bloggers all over these stories in the ajc. and people wonder why we have so much voter apathy. this could be a lot of the problem. lets be positive and give these two hard working candidates a fair and honest opportunity to express their views and urge voters to go to the polls on august 10th and cast their vot for the candidate of their choice…without some negative blogger bombarding them with what they think…true or false.
Nathan4U
July 23rd, 2010
12:34 pm
Well Said Earl!
brandon
July 23rd, 2010
12:37 pm
I can’t support Handel. King Roy will destroy her in a debate. He’s already said what he wants. One on one debates with no journalist questions. She’ll loose her cool like she did at our local republican party meeting when someone ask her about why she’s not endorsed by GRTL. Redfaced, tearing up, and foaming at the mouth. Roy will crush her!
I’ll go with Deal and hope for the best. I suspect most McBerry, Chapman, Johnson, and Ox supporters will too. Remember she ran the negative mailers and oppontents don’t forget.
Pamela McGregor
July 23rd, 2010
12:46 pm
I wonder what Kaen’s ad will be? She has no children. I will lend her my teenage girls.
Karen: I don’t believe in abortion except for incest and rape.
Girl 1: Aunty Karen, does that mean that you don’t agree with Aunty Sara?
Karen: Of course, just this one time.
Girl 2: Aunty Sara is not a friend of gays and lesbians. How about you?
Karen: Sweety, I am not a friends of those people but a few years ago I had a little thing going with the Georgia Log Cabin Republicans?
Girl 1: Aunty, why do they call themselves Log Cabin Republicans?
Karen: I wonder…May be it sounded nice…Like Tea Party Patriots. Sweeties, let’s go have some tea…Such a wonderful group of people and they are going to support me.
No Deal
July 23rd, 2010
12:56 pm
Vote this long term incumbent out of office and let him spend some quality time with his family.
khc
July 23rd, 2010
12:58 pm
do you have to be overweight to be a pol in ga? if you are fit and trim does that make the majority of our populace uncomfortable
fultonrighty
July 23rd, 2010
1:04 pm
It is frustrating that these comments always seem to devolve into ad hominem attacks, snarkiness, and unsubstantiated “facts.” The sound-bite media culture doesn’t have to invade blogs and comments, does it?
DannyX
July 23rd, 2010
1:06 pm
Cute Wittle Puppy: Papa, why do you want to be governor?
Deal: ‘Cause grown-ups in Washington want to allow you to marry humans.
Cute Wittle Puppy: Really?
Deal: Yes, and I want to fight back by giving more comedians jobs and lower the respect of Georgians so people can laugh more while we lose our dignity.
Cute Wittle Puppy: Why, Papa?
Deal: Wittle Puppy, because I love the puppies of the state of Georgia almost as much as I love cute wittle kittens.
Female voiceover: Pro-politician. Steal conservative. Real insults.
T Knight
July 23rd, 2010
1:07 pm
Karen Handel is the best candidate for Georgia. Because she has worked in the private sector, she is business savvy. Nathan and Roy are both attorney’s, not very good in my opinion. Karen Handel is a true conservative. She is a life long republican, not someone who changed parties in order to keep getting elected. Karen Handel can and will build a coalition between the private sector and government in order to bring businesses into our state. Karen does not have the black cloud of being either a retread to the office of governor, or the ethics complaints that Nathan Deal left office to avoid. Karen Handel is a fresh face with fresh ideas. No Deal! No Roy!
Vote Karen Handel in the runoff on Aug. 10th.
Pork Chop
July 23rd, 2010
1:09 pm
@Bubba
What is the deal with the college education stuff? I have known many with college degrees who couldn’t pour pee out of a boot with the instructions printed on the heel.
In most cases, common sense, which isn’t so common, is what is required.
. . . and I have a college degree, Bubba, so don’t even go there.
bud
July 23rd, 2010
1:16 pm
@earl
Yep. Let’s ignore all past wrong-doing and documented ethical lapses in favor of having an honest debate between the candidates about who hates gays more and who wants to give the biggest tax breaks while furloughing teachers and closing state parks. Eight years of tax breaks and we are sinking fast.
159
July 23rd, 2010
1:31 pm
It appears as if the Handel people are realizing how many bridges they burned during the primary, and now they are panicking. The across the board attacks were a severe tactical error on Handel’s part, and they think they can attack their way out of the hole they dug by attacking. Kind of like trying to lift yourself out of a bucket by the handle.
Nathan4U
July 23rd, 2010
1:32 pm
@ Bud
Let’s not even get into the Gay debate, Karen is so wishy washy when it comes to that. She attends Gay functions and then denies it in her mailers as being for marriage between a man and a woman. So don’t put her on a pedastool when it comes to that aspect of their positions on gays in GA.
@ T Knight
What do you work for the campaign? That sounded like a card right out of her platform, lol.
I’m not saying I like Deal that much, or Attorneys for that matter. But when it comes to a viable candidate able to hold their own against Roy Barnes, Deal is the only one that can pull it off. So you tell me if you want to give Democrats control of the Gov office with Rob Roy Barnes because if we elect Handell, this state will loose the Republican handle of that public office! As for Roy, Careful, he might scrape some gold off the capital dome to fund public education. Now that is just pathetic!
Mugwump
July 23rd, 2010
1:38 pm
predictions:
Democrats take GA
Republicans take US
Tired of BS
July 23rd, 2010
1:39 pm
Nathan….. You don’t like women do you?
Nathan4U
July 23rd, 2010
1:46 pm
@ Tired
Why will you seduce me if I do? Bcos Karen just gets me all excited for Govornor!
Lester Maddox
July 23rd, 2010
1:54 pm
T Knight, please elaborate on Karen’s private sector work. As far as I can tell she has always worked in the government, non-profit sector (Chamber of Commerce), “policy advisor” etc. I see from Wikipedia that it asserts she was an “executive” at KMPG. What executive job would a very professional firm like KMPG have given her without a college degree? I suspect she was a lobbyist working in her native Washington, DC plying her connections for KMPG. I would feel a lot better about her if she had an honest long term job (say 10 years) with a real for profit firm.
Pork Chop- It’s not just about whether you have to have a degree to be smart enough to be Governor. I think it reflects something about her personality. I personally would never run for Governor without having a degree in this day and age. Yes if I was in my 60s or 70s perhaps it would make sense because not as many people of that age group have degrees. Also it should be noted even in under educated Georgia every Governor elected since 1970 has had a degree. For someone in their 40s who grew up in highly educated Washington DC I find it very interesting that she had not bothered to complete her college work. Many people who grow up in troubled homes manage to get a degree. Particularly for those who aspire to higher places. It’s not like she has been balancing work and raising a family. Why did she not find time over the past 30 years to finish out her degree? It could have been done at night, on-line, weekends, etc. I don’t care if she was 40 when she finally got it. To me if either reflects that she is so arrogant as to think it is not needed even to be Governor or too lazy or both.
To me Karen appears to be a classic networker who knows what she wants. As far as I can tell all of her jobs have been nonprofit, government or lobbying jobs which are based upon who you know, who you can influence, etc.
Deal definitely has a smudge with the ethics thing last year. However, as far as I can tell other than try to use his position to influence people (which did not work by the way) he did nothing wrong. I am not saying it is right but this kind of thing happens all the time in the public and private sector. Basically he was lobbying on his own behalf. Had he not been in Congress no one would have thought much about it. Did he take a bribe? Did he pay a bribe? Did he do something illegal? Not as far as I can tell. He clearly had a sweet heart arrangement for the car salvage business but it is not clear to me he was corrupt in getting it. Obviously using better judgment he should have backed off the lobbying but I don’t see a whole lot that really happened. Since Deal has been in office for 15+ years and has been an adult in GA for over 40 years I need to hear/see a lot more than what I have to claim he is a crook. If he is so corrupt lay out more of the bad deeds with real details/facts. It the allegations are true surely there is something more after such a long career.
As far as blaming Deal for what happened in Congress that is a joke. He is just one vote. My understanding is that he voted Republican positions about 90% of the time. Because he was in Congress he has a real documented track record unlike Handel. Its good and bad to have a real voting record. Karen has not really done anything legislatively so she has nothing to defend. Go to Congress for 15+ years and of course people can dissect every vote. Overall, hard to argue with real votes that Deal is not conservative.
Overall both Republican candidates are flawed to some degree or another. Pick the tallest midget in the room. The guy with a 40 year track record and a ethics smudge or the Republican version of a community organizer who as far as I can tell has not accomplished much in government or the for -profit private sector and just can’t seem to be bothered with finishing college.
In either case one of them is about 90% certain to be Governor. This is a Republican year and barring an major unsuspected event Barnes does not have a chance. Beyond that, Barnes would be worse than either Republican.
bud
July 23rd, 2010
1:59 pm
Oh, and many of those tax breaks that our leaders have shovelled out are going to Koreans. Korean businesses/factories are opening up all over GA, while our GA businesses are sending precious jobs to Mexico. Hello. Anyone see any irony in that scenario?
I used to be a mislead Republican
July 23rd, 2010
2:07 pm
So the republican choice is a slime ball hick who makes Georgia look stupid and a woman without a college degree who either does or does not support abortion and either does or does not support gay rights. Toss coin!
Nathan4U
July 23rd, 2010
2:10 pm
@ BUD
That’s a ridicolous statement because there may be foreign companies bringing business to GA because it seems like an environment that tax wise encourages investment from outside firms. These firms bring many jobs to the GA region and they hire Georgians to work in their plants. How can you be mad about foreign investment. All our American companies are so cash strapped because of Obamenomics that they aren’t opening any new plants or businesses. Wake up and smell the coffee dude! Business extends further then our precious GA borders and complaining about foreign investment is just Asinine!!!
Gman
July 23rd, 2010
2:30 pm
Only in Georgia could someone without a college education be seriously considered for governor.
The Honkomatic
July 23rd, 2010
3:31 pm
Yeah, I agree with all you smart folks about Handel not having a degree. I suppose you DO agree with her stances on the issues, but not having a degree just obviates the possibility of your voting for her.
I couldn’t agree more. When I’m reminded of our collapsed economy, intractable indebtedness, high unemployment–and the toll these things take on peoples’ families–I’m reminded, consoled, and reassured that our president has not one–but TWO college degrees from high-toned universities. And the Democrat gubernatorial candidate also has TWO college degrees. Fantastic. Oh, and he endorsed John Edwards for president–and John also has TWO degrees.
And for my money I’d rather have that (a candidate with TWO degrees) than someone with common sense policies but only a high school diploma.
I addition, it makes ME feel better (and superior) when I can look down my nose at someone else and sniff that “why she doesn’t even have a college degree–in this day and age.”
So we are simpatico my friends. Life is good. Carry on.
Jadie
July 23rd, 2010
3:33 pm
Say what you want about Nathan Deal as a politician, but he is one of the best family man I have ever known. When his wife’s parents became ill they welcomed them into their home. Shortly thereafter his mother became ill, and he brought her to his home as well to spend her last years with family and not in an assisted living home. Who among you “bloggers” would have the same compassion? Nathan is a good man, and will serve Georgia well. When the FL, AL, and GA Governors have a come to Jesus meeting about water rights, who do you want representing you? A skillfully trained, educated, and experienced negotiator or a “Mama Grizzly” and her high school diploma…..give me a break. This is a grown up world we are living in, and the choices we make today (August 10th) are going to greatly affect our future. Was the advertisement a bit cheesy…YES….but its message was REAL
lmno
July 23rd, 2010
4:05 pm
Georgia may be the only state to elect someone without a degree, but there are plenty of othher states electing unqualified governors.
I know that the last governor elected in Alaska for example took 6 years and 4 colleges to get a journalism degree.
College degree
July 23rd, 2010
4:26 pm
The last governor without a college degree was …. (drum roll) … Lester Maddox. Just sayin’ …
fultonrighty
July 23rd, 2010
4:33 pm
College education is not a guarantee of common sense or even knowledge, but it is a bit amazing to think about someone without it managing a $17.9 Billion budget and handling hundreds of bills changing the OCGA for 10 million citizens, their businesses, the state government, etc.
Pork Chop
July 23rd, 2010
4:33 pm
@The Honkomatic
“Yeah, I agree with all you smart folks about Handel not having a degree. I suppose you DO agree with her stances on the issues, but not having a degree just obviates the possibility of your voting for her.”
Oh, that was GOOD!
Lester Maddox
July 23rd, 2010
4:34 pm
Honk, you are missing the point. It’s not about looking down my nose and feeling superior. You are missing a big point-she is putting herself in the public spotlight and claiming to be the best qualified for the job. I have the right to evaluate if she is best. Education factors into it. I know all about common sense, etc. and being a Georgia native I have plenty of relatives who did not make it to or through college who are good honest hardworking people with excellent common sense but that does not mean they are suitable to be Governor of Georgia.
If she had a longer and stronger track record as a leader and executive it would be more compelling and no, running the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce does not qualify someone to run a state with over 9 million people. Hard to think she really takes education super seriously if she did not even pursue it to completion in her own life.
Let’s not get too riled up. Although I have my doubts, I will vote for her is she wins the runoff to beat King Roy. With her high profile endorsements and the strong Fulton County voter base (highest population county in Ga) she will likely win regardless of my concerns.
College degree
July 23rd, 2010
4:43 pm
I’ll vote for Roy, because I think he is best prepared for the challenges that face the state. That being said, if we are to be lead by a Republican, Karen Handel is the one for the job…degree or no degree.
GI Dolly...
July 23rd, 2010
5:23 pm
Handeless: I am pro life and I hate all single parents.
Frozen Babies: what about us? Don’t we deserve the right to live?
Handeless: I am a barren woman. Only I as govenor can determine legit parents. But guns can be carried anywhere. McScarry can no longer get to the little girls as govenor.
Frozen Babies: Vote for Deal, so we can be born.
T Knight
July 23rd, 2010
9:54 pm
Karen Handel has worked for both KPMG and Ciba Vision. Nathan Deal and Roy Barnes are both attorney’s. They will be beholden to the special interest they accept money from. No retread Roy, No permanent fixture Deal.
Karen Handel is not a career politician. She will do away with our state income tax. Karen Handel will bring business back to Georgia.
Karen Handel for governor. Vote August 10th.
Lester Maddox
July 23rd, 2010
10:51 pm
T Knight, tell me more about EXACTLY what Handel did at KPMG and Ciba Vision. I would be surprised if either company hired her for an “executive” position as she states without a college degree. I strongly suspect she stayed near her hometown of Washington, DC to be a lobbyist or in “public relations” on both companies behalf playing her connections in the District where she was born and grew up. If I am wrong please provide the details of exactly what work and responsibilities she provided for each company.
I think it is great that she will do away with the state income tax! Who would not want that? In fact, I want Karen do to away with all taxes! It will save me thousands. All of my fellow Republicans can jump on that band wagon- no taxes at all! The government can self fund itself for free! What a Republican platform to get voters on the Handel (formerly Oxendine) train- a free lunch, er, no income tax. Kind of the inverse of the hard left viewpoint (also unrealistic) that the government can provide for all kinds of benefits with no cost.
In all seriousness, please provide the details as to how EXACTLY no state income tax will be done by Handel. Please show some common sense before you cite Florida’s lack of income tax (huge revenues from tourists we don’t have) or Texas (huge extraction taxes for oil and natural gas we don’t have). For any Republican readers with children of school age let me point out that over 50% of our state budget goes to education. If you think the last couple of year’s of budget cuts in education are enough wait until a Handel administration cuts your school’s budget much deeper to eliminate the income tax. Also, as far as I can tell Handel has no kids or dependents so more cuts to education may not be a concern. Again, with all honesty it would be good for me if she did eliminate the income tax but I question if it would be good for Georgia. At least Handel and Oxendine have realistic tax policies in common. Not!
Handel’s style of Washington politics is not for me. I think it is just great that she can airmail in endorsements from out of state connections she barely knows. I am sure Sarah and Mitt will be here in a couple of weeks on her behalf. It will be on all the news and sway a lot of votes. Hopefully they can huddle in person for a couple of hours to get to know one another.
I want realistic recommendations and solutions from real people.
BeyondTheRhetoric
July 24th, 2010
6:02 pm
How can anyone possibly blame Nathan Deal for the current mess we are in. Legislation must pass the US House, US Senate and be signed by the President before it becomes law. There are 435 Representatives in the US House, 100 Senators in the US Senate and 1 President. In the House alone, a 60% majority or a total of 261 Representatives must pass the legislation. Give me a break…..
Let’s also not forget that the Democrats have been in control of the House and Senate since November of 2006. In 2006 my wife and I were both working, we had money in the bank and our house was worth $165,000 instead of $111.000 as it does now. Oh, that’s right, I forgot. It’s President George W Bush’s fault that we are in this mess………….
Ga Values
July 25th, 2010
8:12 am
Nathan Corruption Deal has been a Washington Insider for 18 years, he has done little or nothing for Georgia but has made himself a multi millionaire. Just remember Deal’s middle name is CORRUPTION.
Go Girl
July 26th, 2010
7:27 am
Well, I will attack you (us) bloggers for being “sheeple”.
The GA Right to Life (GRTL) are playing us and have turned this whole discussion to abortion. Which only increases their donations, plus all the money the Deal camp is throwing their way.
Basically, state governors don’t have much control over abortion, but it revs every one up.
Ask – why would GRTL attack the only woman in the campaign? How about the long history between them (Dan Becker) and Deal who used to be the Rep for Cherokee County. Why is GRTL attacking a woman who cannot have a baby. Disgusting bunch.
Karen Handel may not have everything you want, but she is the best candidate.
PS – go Aquagir – vote for Karen
Nathan Deal is back on the idiot box, warning you about Karen Handel’s fibs | atlanta.rssible.com
August 3rd, 2010
1:18 am
[...] of hanging out by the fishing hole or chilling with the young folks, the former congressman’s now moved on to the creative “white background” and [...]