The responses to these questions were edited for length and clarity by the Georgia Decides team. Each candidate was allotted 150 words for each answer and some answers were trimmed in order to abide by that length requirement. Other edits were made to make sure readers can fully follow and understand the candidate responses.
Campaigning for: Secretary of State
What role should government have in the lives of Georgians? How would you apply that philosophy to the job you are seeking?
We are a country of laws, not of personalities. That is why I have worked to hold both parties accountable to you, the voter. As your secretary of state, I have backed law enforcement and the rule of law every time — and not just when it’s politically convenient.
If you are elected (or re-elected), what problems will you spend the most time solving and why?
My top priority is secure, safe and accessible elections. In an ever-changing threat environment, we must remain competitive in physical security and cybersecurity. That is why my office will work with the General Assembly to propose and pass legislation to expand our elections investigation team and strengthen our cybersecurity team. As those on all sides continue to undermine the legitimacy of Georgia’s elections, I will also work to pass a package of bills to secure and protect our elections, which which is foundational for all of our institutions. In addition, I would like to see the secretary of state returned as chair of the state election board.
Georgia is a politically diverse state. How will you work to represent Georgians whose political views differ from your own?
I am on the only candidate with a proven record of backing the rule of law and protecting all legal voters, regardless of political pressures, personalities and outcomes.
There were politicians who questioned the outcomes of Georgia elections in 2018 and 2020. Do you think Georgia’s elections are secure and will you stand by the results?
I am the only candidate who has backed the voters of Georgia — every time. I have fought to protect the outcomes of Georgia’s elections in 2018 as well as in 2020. While some have attempted and failed to overturn the will of Georgia’s voters, I will continue to work to uphold voters’ constitutional right to select their representatives and leaders.
As Secretary of State, name any change you would seek to broaden or restrict voting in Georgia.
I believe only American citizens vote in our elections. We would like to see a state constitutional amendment to ensure only American citizens continue to vote in our elections.
Who has been the biggest influence on how you view state government and politics? What have you learned from this person?
Former President Ronald Reagan, who stayed true to his principles and showed how to get the government working again for the people. His unbounded enthusiasm for our country and its people was contagious, and our nation was reinvigorated. It is Reagan’s positive, principled conservative leadership that I work to emulate every day.
Politics is often about compromise. How do you decide when to compromise and take small, incremental wins, and when to refuse compromise?
I am the only one with a proven record of putting the voters of Georgia first — regardless of pressure or political interests. As your secretary of state, I will continue to put you first and hold all parties accountable.