We had hoped to see a new Democratic focus and the development of a strong two party representation. We were disappointed to see the rank and file continue their alliance with the Black Caucus on issues such as photo ID requirements for voters. The squeals of 'racism! racism!' from the radical Democrats approach the level of hysterical farce.

Ever since the 2000 election, Americans have faced the prospect of having elections determined in courts. It just makes sense----especially with the added issue of illegal immigrants---to pass measures so that the people of Georgia can have more confidence in the results of their elections. These same people squealing about the photo ID requirements are the ones who advocate voting rights for convicted felons (in prison or elsewhere) and people of illegal status. For them it seems to be about race and political advantage and the integrity of the electoral system be damned.

The administration apparently also believes they can ignore the State flag issue despite the fact that 79% of Georgians support a Fair Vote. As I've suggested before, some apparently believe that they are bulletproof on this issue. They really underestimate the anger and the memory of Georgians on this....especially when there are extremely dedicated people who will remind the people relentlessly until November 2006.

The Republicans stubbed their toes on their "secrecy legislation". This is an opportunity for the opposition. The other glaring weakness from the administration and the majority lies in Governor Perdue's endorsement of the Bush-Fox immigration policies, or lack thereof, and the fact the Georgia administration accomplished nothing in reform for illegal immigration.

This will become more and more costly to all Georgia taxpayers as welfare programs, greatly heightened public school costs, emergency medical assistance and Medicaid are stretched beyond the limits of Georgia taxpayers who have become the victims of legislative neglect. Both parties share the blame for this.

Our Georgia Heritage Council website has chronicled the progress of the various bills which have passed the session and we invite you to review them. [ Feb. News || Mar. News ]

One bill that finally passed without the blessing of the administration is the Smoking Ban. The final watered down bill is pretty confusing and there is some question as to whether it will be signed or vetoed. The message from the majority is they want to get the government out of the people's lives, yet this bill intrudes on the ability of business people to operate as they see fit, on their property, either smoking or non smoking in true free enterprise and freedom of choice.

After hearing the debate on the Smoker Ban, we were disappointed to learn that a number of people who call themselves Conservatives are just as ignorant of The Constitution as those they criticize. For my part, I agree that folks who don't want second hand smoke should have the free option of avoiding it by choice---but not by government intervention.

How did the potential candidates come out of the 2005 session? My own view is that both Democrats Cathy Cox and Big Mac came out unscathed. Sonny Perdue can take considerable credit for the outcome of some favorable legislation. A race between any of the above will be interesting and I believe close. Majority Leader Bill Stephens, a candidate for Secretary of State came out well. There may be a surprise in either this race or for the Democrat side of the Lt. Governor's race. I'm guessing, but I think Lewis Massey, former Secretary of State and Democratic Primary candidate for governor before dropping out to Roy Barnes, may be in the wings. One of the Republican candidates for Lt. Governor, Casey Cagle, wasn't hurt in the session and his main rival, Ralph Reed, was working the halls and developing one of the best political organizations I've seen since some of my more active days in politics.

Who lost stature in the session? My vote would be Senate President Pro Tem Eric Johnson for trying to unsuccessfully strip the Lt. Governor from making his own staff appointments and for his continued efforts in pushing Eminent Domain legislation favoring developers along his part in trying to extend secrecy in public meetings and disclosures.

I'd be pleased to see the views of our GHC readers on their own evaluations of the legislative session, the bills passed or lost, or carried over, and the key players on the political horizon. We encourage you to write your opinion and it's OK if you disagree with me. I learn a lot that way.

Jeff Davis is a retired radio-TV journalist living in Gainesville, GA. Active in civic and political affairs, he is past president of the Georgia Jaycees, former vice president of the US and the world Jaycees, former campaign chairman of the Georgia Republican party. He voluntarily serves as chairman of the Georgia Heritage Council. He is a collateral descendant of President Jefferson Davis.

Related Links
2005 Interim Legislative Scorecard

Legislative Output 2005

79% of Georgians Want a Fair Vote

Georgians support Republicans because...

Bulletproof Republicans?

James Madison and the citizen's informed consent

Illegal Immigration Amnesty Shuffle

Comparing Day and Night