At present, Georgia has a Republican trifecta. The Republican Party controls the office of governor and both chambers of the state legislature (Democrats hold 79 out of 180 seats for the Georgia House and 23 out of 56 for the Georgia Senate). Despite gerrymandering, the Democratic Party has successfully help elect our current Democratic President, sent two Democrats to the U.S. Senate, and and five out of fourteen Democrats to the US House of Representatives. Small counties like Dawson have been used to gerrymander districts, but we have been instrumental in electing (through our grassroots efforts) Democrats to statewide offices.
The following is a list of main issues the Dawson County Democratic Party Committee stand for…
Dawson Dems believe that a healthy democracy is based on free, fair, and transparent elections; that our constitutional right to vote should be protected at all costs by elected officials who exhibit ethical public service.
Dawson Dems believe a world class education system is a moral imperative and an economic necessity. Every child should be provided the opportunity to succeed – not just a select few.
Hardworking Georgians have the right to good jobs to support their families and invest in their future. Dawson Dems understand we must have an economy that works for all, not just the wealthy.
Dawson Dems continue to believe healthcare is a fundamental human right for all Georgians and not a privilege reserved for those able to afford it. Expanding Medicaid for low income people would increase the viability of hospitals in our state. Every American should have healthcare and the ability to make their own healthcare choices.
Dawson Dems recognize that climate change is a real and serious threat that is causing drought, crop failure, heat waves, more torrential storms, and extreme climate events. We believe that steps have been taken to make sure that the earth is livable for our grandchildren! It is our right to have safe clean air and water. We should be investing in safe and clean renewable sources of energy.
Georgia is 4th in the nation for having more people in prison and a higher incarceration rate than most other states. Georgia has almost 15% of its prison population held in private prisons. The inadequacies of our criminal justice system disproportionately impact people of color and the poor.
Dawson Dems believe responsible, accountable and progressive state budget policy is necessary to restore trust between taxpayers and elected officials in Atlanta. Earning that trust requires leaders who will talk straight about the challenges facing Georgians today and in the future—unlike Republican politicians who have created short-term and long-term budget problems and then have blocked solutions. We also believe in a tax system that is progressive.
Dawson Dems recognize that the United States is a vibrant nation of immigrants. We value those who come from different countries and cultures. That new Americans have the ability to be part of the American dream and have the opportunity to contribute to our society.
Dawson Dems support initiatives to ensure the security of our families. Every parent should be able to provide housing, nutrition, clothing and health care for his or her family. And when tough times arrive, Georgian’s should have the ability to receive their unemployment insurance.
Dawson Dems understand the obstacles faced in rural Georgia, and we are committed to providing our rural communities with the tools necessary to maintain their quality of life (including hospitals and healthcare) and create enhanced opportunities for future generations of rural Georgians.
The Georgia Democratic Party stands for the complete inclusion of Georgia women in our state’s affairs and respect the preservation of their autonomy and their rights. Women should have the freedom to make their own reproductive health choices.
Dawson Dems take pride in and support the continued progress of the LGBTQ movement. Since Lawrence v. Texas, our country has continued to take steps towards achieving full equality for LGBTQ citizens.
Daws Democrats believe that our veterans should be awarded all the benefits they have been promised, honored for their service, and accepted back into society with open arms.
The Dawson Dems believes in the right of every Georgian to lead a productive life, enjoy liberty, and to pursue happiness.
Like most Georgians, Dawson Dems support an increase in transportation funding to alleviate our congestion and safety crisis.
Dawson Dems believe that religious freedom is a fundamental right for all Americans as provided by the Georgia and U.S. Constitutions.
Dawson Dems believe peace, prosperity, and national security are assured by maintaining a strong national defense, promoting democracy, and advancing development abroad.
Dawson Dems believe all Americans should have the opportunity to live in affordable housing.
Dawson Dems believe that safety and protection in our local communities that is fair and respectful to all.
Dawson Dems believe everyone should have ability to save for retirement. Our social security system should be solvent and available to all. We should make Medicare stronger for our senior citizens.
Dawson Dems believe in freedom from fear with Gun safety regulations that protect you.
Dawson Dems believe in freedom from persecution and racism.