State of Georgia Archives: on Crime


Alan Keyes: Failing to revere God results in violence and crime

We as a people have experienced, sadly, the consequences of forgetting this fundamental truth: fail to revere God in our schools, and the tide of violence, and crime, and drug abuse rises in our schools, along with a tide of low motivation and bad performance.
Source: Rally in Blairsville, Georgia Oct 21, 2003

Andrew Hunt: Community rehab programs instead of incarceration

Keeping Families Together through Prison Reform: Move away from improper jail terms.

As governor, I want to keep families together, keep people in the workforce, and save taxpayers money. One of the best ways to approach this is through prison reform. Georgia operates the 5th largest prison system in the US, and it's costing taxpayers billions of dollars. Roughly 5% of tax dollars goes towards our incarceration systems. Georgia's legislators have considered cutting funds to our education and healthcare without even considering reducing the costs of our prisons. If we shrink our prison population by no longer incarcerating people for victimless crimes, we can help keep families together and reduce our tax dollar waste.

A great example of a cost-effective, smaller government is the prison reform in Texas. By closing 3 prisons, Texas has reunited families and reduced crime rates. They then spent a fraction of the cost of incarceration on creating community rehabilitation programs.

Source: 2014 Georgia gubernatorial campaign website, AndrewHunt.us Aug 31, 2014

Brian Kemp: Collaborate with cities and sheriff's departments

The Ga. Secretary of State also addressed his approach to helping fight crime in Savannah if elected Governor. "That's an issue where I think the state's perspective is one of collaboration with the cities and different sheriff's departments and counties but that's more of a local control issue, not to say as Governor I wouldn't support something that needed to be done at a local level, but also I think that's what you have elections for," said Sec. of State Kemp.
Source: WJCL News on 2018 Georgia gubernatorial race Apr 28, 2017

Brian Kemp: Address the growing threat of gang activity

It's time to renew our commitment to public safety. As governor, I am committed to addressing the rise of gang activity in our state--a growing threat requiring our immediate attention. According to a recent survey conducted by the Georgia Gang Investigators Association, there are over 71,000 validated gang affiliates and 1,500 suspected gang networks in our state. These gangs are pawns for Mexican drug cartels--pushing opioids and drugs, buying and selling children for sex. My budget proposal includes $500,000 in initial funds to form a gang taskforce within the GBI. This highly qualified group of experienced law enforcement personnel and prosecutors will work with local district attorneys and law enforcement to stop and dismantle street gangs. By utilizing the Criminal Gang and Criminal Alien Database, and working with the Attorney General, federal, state, and local partners, we can undermine organized crime. Together, we can build a safer future for all Georgia families.
Source: 2019 State of the State address to the Georgia legislature Jan 17, 2019

Brian Kemp: Give non-violent offenders a second chance at life

There's no doubt that criminal justice reform will be a lasting legacy of the Deal administration. Without question, the leadership of Governor Deal and the General Assembly has changed our state for the better. I look forward to supporting initiatives that save costs, strengthen communities, and give non-violent offenders a second chance at life. To keep all Georgians safe, we must build on these reform efforts.
Source: 2019 State of the State address to the Georgia legislature Jan 17, 2019

Brian Kemp: Launched Anti-Gang Task Force to keep neighborhoods safe

This year, we launched the Anti-Gang Task Force at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. We are partnering with local law enforcement and prosecutors to "stop and dismantle" gangs throughout Georgia. We are providing the resources and training needed to put these dangerous criminals behind bars. We are working around the clock to keep our neighborhoods safe.
Source: 2020 Georgia State of the State address Jan 16, 2020

Brian Kemp: We must end modern-day slavery in our state

Every day, hundreds of people are bought and sold for sex in our state. We created the GRACE Commission to help coordinate efforts to end modern-day slavery in our state. We must advance legislation this session that closes loopholes that leave children vulnerable to exploitation. We must help victims tell their story in the courtroom without fear of retaliation. We must support survivors who want to enter the workforce but still bear the scars of the past.
Source: 2020 Georgia State of the State address Jan 16, 2020

David Perdue: Supported First Step Act with restrictions

Senator Perdue secured the following improvements to the First Step Act:
Source: 2020 Georgia Senate campaign website peters.senate.gov Dec 10, 2018

David Perdue: Supports expanding rights of crime victims

Perdue has been honored by Marsy's Law For Georgia for his support for expanding constitutional rights for victims of violent crimes. "After going through the trauma of a violent crime, victims and their families deserve to know if the accused attacker has been released," said Senator Perdue. "Marsy's Law for Georgia is doing great work to raise awareness and ensure both victims and their families have a voice in our criminal justice system."
Source: Metro Atlanta CEO on 2020 Georgia Senate race May 31, 2019

David Perdue: Opposed Sentencing Reform Act as too lenient

A bipartisan group of senators, led by Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), unveiled improvements to the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, S. 2123. The measure is designed to reform federal sentencing policies, bring substantive rehabilitative programming to federal prisons, address the growing costs of incarceration, and enhance public safety by focusing on reducing prisoners' risk of recidivism. [Perdue] called the Act a "criminal leniency bill."

"The bill's definition of what constitutes a 'serious violent felony' creates a loophole that would allow these serious felons to slip through the system," said Perdue. "As currently written, this bill would put thousands of dangerous felons back on the streets early, potentially endangering our families and communities, and therefore I still cannot support it."

Source: GeorgiaPol.com OpEd on 2020 Georgia Senate race May 2, 2016

David Perdue: Need police reform, but vast majority of cops are honorable

Q: Restrict police use of force and increase public oversight?

Perdue: Mixed. "Do we need police reform? Absolutely. But the vast majority of police officers protect us honorably."

Ossoff: Yes. "We urgently need a New Civil Rights Act to establish national standards for use [of] force by American police!"

Source: CampusElect on 2020 Georgia Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Doug Collins: Supports capital punishment

Q: Do you support capital punishment for certain crimes?

A: Yes.

Source: Georgia Congressional Election 2012 Political Courage Test Nov 1, 2012

Doug Collins: Opposes defunding or "wholesale condemnation" of police

Q: Restrict police use of force and increase public oversight?

Doug Collins: Mostly no. Supports Trump executive order on "safe policing." Opposes defunding or "wholesale condemnation" of police. Stands "with our men and women in blue!"

Kelly Loeffler: No. Co-sponsored resolutions supporting "Back the Blue" and opposing calls to defund.

Raphael Warnock: Yes. Wants increased accountability and bias training and a uniform standard for the use of force. Does not support defunding.

Source: CampusElect on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Drew Ferguson: Thank a law enforcement officer in your community

Standing with Our Men and Women in Blue: When was the last time you thanked a law enforcement officer in your community? Our men and women in blue put their lives on the line each day to ensure the safety of our families and the security of our communities. They stand against violence and do their best to prevent possible threats that may cause harm to our families, friends and neighbors. They go to work each day, unable to predict the potential dangers that may be thrown their way at any moment. Their admirable bravery and selfless dedication are traits that we should all strive to mirror in our own lives.

The fact that many men and women in uniform have been violently targeted recently is inexcusable. As Americans, we must take a collective stand in honoring our law enforcement professionals. I will always be grateful for these heroes and their devotion to making our state a safer place. How about you? Will you stand with me?

Source: 2016 Georgia House campaign website FergusonForGeorgia.com Nov 8, 2016

Ed Tarver: Tough on violent drug dealers and fraudsters

Mr. Tarver was the right federal prosecutor at the right time for Southeast Georgia. He was tough on crime, especially violent drug dealing, and he worked well with local and state authorities in bringing gun-toting criminals to justice. Mr. Tarver also took a hard line against fraudsters, from those who took food out of the mouths of poor children by illegally converting food vouchers for cash to more sophisticated white-collar crooks who bilked the nation's health-care system.
Source: Savannah Morning News on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Mar 13, 2017

Herschel Walker: FactCheck: Claimed Capitol rioters distracted from fraud

On the afternoon of January 6, Walker tweeted a false suggestion that the Capitol riot was orchestrated by people who wanted to stop the discussion about election fraud. "Have you noticed were not talking about election fraud and election integrity now? Seems like this was well planned to shut everything down and run the clock out," Walker wrote. Walker falsely suggested that these people weren't actually Trump supporters -- calling them "Trojan horses" and saying "they do not look like MAGA."
Source: CNN Fact-Check on 2022 Georgia Senate race Aug 28, 2021

Herschel Walker: Any mom should be able to go to grocery store and feel safe

I'm fighting for the people of Georgia. I'm fighting for the United States of America and I'm fighting for this Constitution. I'm fighting for law and order. I want my mom. I want any white mom, I want any Asian mom to be able to go to a grocery store and feel safe. And right now, I don't think they can do that.
Source: Sean Hannity on FOX News on 2022 Georgia Senate race Jul 26, 2021

Herschel Walker: Ex-wife & other women accuse him of making threats

A Texas woman told police in 2002 that Walker had threatened and stalked her, according to a police report. The woman, a friend of Walker's ex-wife, told police that the football star had been following her, and had made "threats to her" and had "her house watched." The report did not specify the nature of the threats. Two other women--Walker's ex-wife and an ex-girlfriend--have accused him of making threats, telling authorities Walker claimed he would shoot them in the head.
Source: The Mercury News on 2022 Georgia Senate race Sep 2, 2021

Herschel Walker: Defunding the police is a ridiculous idea

Herschel thinks that defunding the police is a ridiculous idea. Crime is out of control in many of our major cities, including Atlanta, because politicians have demoralized, defunded, and undermined the good men and women in uniform who risk their lives every day so that we can be safe. Herschel will fight to fully fund all of our public safety officials by ensuring that they have the staff, equipment, and training needed to keep every neighborhood free from fear.
Source: 2022 Georgia Senate campaign website TeamHerschel.com Apr 20, 2022

Hunter Hill: Death penalty, but also alternatives to incarceration

Source: Georgia Congressional 2008 National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 2008

Jared Polis: As long as I'm Governor, Georgia will always back the blue!

I'm proud to say that my budget proposal will include a $5,000 raise for state law enforcement and other state employees. These brave men and women have been on the front lines of a truly unprecedented time in our state's history--from civil unrest to a global pandemic--and we couldn't be more appreciative of all they do to keep our families and communities safe. As long as I'm Governor, Georgia will always back the blue!
Source: 2022 State of the State Address to the Georgia legislature Jan 13, 2022

Jason Carter: No ban on the death penalty

Jason Carter distances himself from a man he has loved and admired since boyhood: his grandfather, former President Jimmy Carter. Of the elder Carter's call to ban the death penalty, his grandson said, "I love my grandfather, but we disagree." And when grandfather Carter offered to attend a campaign rally in Albany, Ga., his grandson politely asked him to stay home. "He wanted the people of southwest Georgia to see that he was a man of his own," the former president said in an interview in his office.

So it goes in what may be the nation's most awkward legacy campaign. Political families--from the Roosevelts to the Kennedys, Bushes and Clintons--have long been a part of American politics. Carter's bid to unseat Gov. Nathan Deal, the Republican incumbent, is testing the strength and durability of the Carter name in Georgia, a red state that Democrats hope to turn blue. But it is also a test of something more: a deep bond between a 38-year-old grandson and an 89-year-old grandfather.

Source: N.Y. Times on 2014 Georgia gubernatorial race Jul 26, 2014

Jim Barksdale: Better training for police, to avoid confrontations

Recent confrontations between law enforcement and citizens they protect, including a case in Coweta County where a handcuffed individual was repeatedly tasered until he died, have created understandable unease for Americans interacting with police. As these types of incidents are too numerous to count, Jim believes improved education and training, and better use of technology needs to be addressed at the Federal level.

While Jim believes people who commit crimes should go to jail, he wants to see crimes by non-violent offenders addressed with alternative sentencing strategies. The best way to reduce crime is increase job opportunities as it is better for our society if non-violent offenders are rehabilitated instead of only being locked away.

Source: 2016 Georgia Senate campaign website JimBarksdale.com Aug 31, 2016

Jim Martin: Supports lethal injection as the method of execution

Source: 2000 Georgia National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 2000

Jim Martin: Supports alternative sentencing for non-violent offenders

Source: 2000 Georgia National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 2000

Jon Ossoff: Task forces to fight organized crime & political corruption

When it comes to crime in America, we need to rethink our priorities. Jon is an experienced investigator who has successfully targeted organized criminals and corrupt officials. Violent crime, murder, rape, human trafficking, and corruption are rampant, while we spend billions locking up nonviolent drug offenders. It just doesn't make sense.

Jon will introduce legislation to empower task forces at the Department of Justice dedicated to fighting organized crime and political corruption. He will work to give law enforcement the tools and resources they need to take down organized criminals wherever they are. Jon will work to reduce mass incarceration of nonviolent offenders, which punishes taxpayers and wastes American lives.

When it comes to crime in America, we need to rethink our priorities. Jon is an experienced investigator who has successfully targeted organized criminals and corrupt officials.

Source: 2017 Georgia House campaign website, ElectJon.com Apr 21, 2017

Jon Ossoff: Reverse militarization of police; ban private prisons

Our approach to punishment must respect the human dignity of incarcerated people and recognize that except for the most dangerous violent criminals, successful re-entry to society after incarceration is crucial for both the convicted and the public. I will champion and fight tirelessly to pass a New Civil Rights Act that strengthens civil rights laws and advances comprehensive criminal justice reform. Race and class disparities in policing, prosecution, and sentencing must be ended nationwide.

I will work to reverse the militarization of local police forces, enhance due process and human rights protections for all citizens, ban private prisons, end cash bail, reform prisons and raise conditions of incarceration to humane standards, abolish the death penalty, legalize cannabis, and end incarceration for nonviolent drug offenses.

Source: 2020 Georgia Senate campaign website ElectJon.com Jul 2, 2020

Jon Ossoff: Don't defund the police; answer is to reform the police

No, the answer is not to defund police. The answer is to reform police. And the answer is to demilitarize police. Far too many local police departments are heavily equipped with armored vehicles and military equipment, and when all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.
Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on 2020 Georgia Senate race Jun 16, 2020

Jon Ossoff: Establish national standards for use of force by police

Q: Restrict police use of force and increase public oversight?

Ossoff: Yes. "We urgently need a New Civil Rights Act to establish national standards for use [of] force by American police!"

Perdue: Mixed. "Do we need police reform? Absolutely. But the vast majority of police officers protect us honorably."

Source: CampusElect on 2020 Georgia Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Jon Ossoff: Crimes under Trump: act prudently, but accountability

I think we have to be prudent and consider the long-term consequences and potential impact on desperately needed reconciliation if we're talking about going after a former president. But executive branch officials cannot plead that they were just following orders. There has to be accountability.
Source: The Nation magazine on 2020 Georgia Senate race Oct 26, 2020

Jon Ossoff: Demilitarize the police; ban private prisons

We need to rebuild trust between communities and law enforcement with a demilitarization of policing. We need national standards for the use of force. We need to reform America's drug laws so that we understand addiction and drug abuse as public health problems, not criminal justice issues. We need to ban private prisons. I think it is shameful to profit from incarceration, and we need to raise the standards within American prisons to humane standards with prison reform.
Source: Atlanta magazine on 2020 Georgia Senate race Oct 23, 2020

Kandiss Taylor: Understand frustration of black men with racial stereotyping

[On racial profiling]: "I've seen young black men who are the sweetest people in the world who were stopped and questioned by police just because they fit a certain stereotype," she said. "So, yes, I understand the frustration. But as for these riots, I don't think that serves any purpose. I'll say this: If you're out there tearing down a business, you've never built one. You've never done what it takes to build a business."
Source: Albany Herald on 2022 Georgia Gubernatorial race Aug 8, 2020

Kelly Loeffler: Cut highway dollars to any state reducing police funding

Loeffler is introducing a bill that would withhold federal highway funding from states and local governments that reduce funding to law enforcement without a clear budgetary need amid the "defund the police" push from some Democrats. The "Protecting Public Safety and Supporting Law Enforcement" Act would require the Secretary of Transportation to withhold 5% of certain highway safety funds from any state that elects to reduce funding to law enforcement.
Source: Fox News on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Jun 16, 2020

Kelly Loeffler: Got to address lawlessness overtaking America's streets

We've also got to address the lawlessness that has overtaken America's streets. I have led the fight to crack down on the mobs wreaking havoc in our cities--introducing legislation to defund cities that defund the police, punish violent rioters, and sentence convicted cop-killers to the death penalty. No candidate in my race has worked harder to put criminals behind bars--or to call out radical movements like BLM, which are inciting violence at a time when we need unity most.
Source: The Brunswick News on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Oct 15, 2020

Kelly Loeffler: Co-sponsored "Back the Blue" resolutions, opposes defunding

Q: Restrict police use of force and increase public oversight?

Kelly Loeffler: No. Co-sponsored resolutions supporting "Back the Blue" and opposing calls to defund. Critics failing "to support law enforcement at a time when they need it most."

Raphael Warnock: Yes. Wants increased accountability and bias training and a uniform standard for the use of force. Does not support defunding.

Source: CampusElect on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Kelly Loeffler: No place for racism, but fighting for well-funded police

Loeffler: The life of every African-American is important and there is no place for racism in this country, but there are organizations whose number one goal is to defund the police, and we know that that hurts minority communities more than anyone. And we have to stand with our men and women of law enforcement, and I will always do that. I'm fighting to make sure that we have the resources to keep our communities safe and our police departments well-funded and well-trained.
Source: Senate Runoff: 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate debate Dec 6, 2020

Nathan Deal: Accountability courts to avoid 5,000 prison beds

In Public Safety, let's capitalize on the success that we have already had in criminal justice reform, in which, last year, we crafted legislation that saves both lives and taxpayer dollars. Through increased use of accountability courts--drug, DUI, mental health and veteran courts--along with other measures, this state will avoid the need to add 5,000 prison beds over five years and save taxpayers at least $264 million; these measures simultaneously decrease the number of offenders who end up back in jail after being released--and create productive, taxpaying citizens rather than more dangerous criminals. And we have continued funding for accountability courts by allocating $11.6 million toward that purpose in my budget proposal.

This year we will continue our work by bringing legislation designed to produce better results with juvenile offenders and divert them from the adult system.

Source: 2013 State of the State address to Georgia Legislature Jan 17, 2013

Nathan Deal: 20% pay raise for state-level law enforcement

In September of this past year, we announced a 20 percent pay raise for state-level law enforcement. These brave men and women don a badge and vest each day as they go to face uncertainty on their shifts in service of their fellow citizens. They protect our lives and property, and it is only fitting that they should be paid a competitive salary.

I am told that in the month following this announcement, Georgia State Patrol had more trooper applications than in the entire previous year.

The second component of that law enforcement improvement announcement was an expansion of training on deescalating violence, community policing and alternatives to deadly force as well as providing access to local law enforcement for Crisis Intervention Training, which provides instruction on how to safely handle situations involving those with mental impairment.

Source: 2017 State of the State address to Georgia Legislature Jan 11, 2017

Nathan Deal: Accountability courts fight recidivism

We are offering those who have made mistakes and are willing to work hard to correct them a second chance through our accountability courts. Individuals whose lives were once controlled by addictions are now able to reclaim forfeited potential, reconnect with their children, retain employment & contribute as taxpaying citizens, and restore hope for a brighter tomorrow. I am happy to report that every one of our 49 judicial circuits now has at least one type of accountability court in operation.
Source: 2018 Georgia State of the State address Jan 11, 2018

Rand Knight: Provide inmates with job skills and drug treatment

Source: Georgia Congressional Election 2008 Political Courage Test Jul 2, 2008

Rand Knight: Support the federal death penalty

Source: Georgia Congressional Election 2008 Political Courage Test Jul 2, 2008

Raphael Warnock: Prison system discriminates against people of color

The prison population is fed by a system that criminalizes poverty and incarcerates people of color at disproportionate levels. Reverend Warnock also believes that it is morally wrong and economically backward to close the doors of social re-entry on the formerly incarcerated. Reverend Warnock has spoken about the dangers of mandatory minimums, the lack of effective rehabilitative programs, and the thousands of Georgians who are in jail because they can't afford bail.
Source: 2020 GA Senate campaign website WarnockForGeorgia.com May 17, 2020

Raphael Warnock: Let independent prosecutors handle police-involved shootings

Reverend Warnock believes we need to responsibly fund the police while reimagining the relationship between police departments and the communities that they serve. In order to ensure accountability and build trust, need to invest resources into the training of police officers and into building genuine bonds of community. Reverend Warnock supports appointing independent prosecutors to handle police-involved shootings.
Source: 2020 GA Senate campaign website WarnockForGeorgia.com May 17, 2020

Raphael Warnock: Reform is personal, older brother sentenced to life

For Warnock, the work of helping reform the nation's criminal-justice system is deeply personal. His older brother Keith, a first-time offender, was sentenced to life in prison for a nonviolent drug-related offense in 1997. "He is a veteran of the first Gulf War and has been a model prisoner, no easy feat amid the challenges of prison life, since his incarceration 22 years ago," said Warnock. "Yet it is the stigma of color and criminality that makes his story not as uncommon as one might think."
Source: The Harvard Gazette on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Oct 17, 2019

Raphael Warnock: Mass incarceration about segregation, loss of voting rights

Warnock sees the crisis as an extension of slavery and the laws created to enforce segregation. He cited the work of author Michelle Alexander, who argues the "mass incarceration of tens of thousands of black men for nonviolent, drug-related offenses and the lifelong consequences that result are constituent parts of the new Jim Crow" that denies them their right to citizenship, their right to vote, opportunity, upward social mobility, and more. "I agree," said Warnock.
Source: The Harvard Gazette on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Oct 17, 2019

Raphael Warnock: We have to continue to push back against police brutality

People of color very often find themselves on the receiving end of state-sanctioned violence. And so, the response to police brutality is that there's crime in communities? There's crime in all communities. And everybody knows that people typically commit crimes against those who are in the closest proximity to them. So this is a typical red herring. It's a distraction. And it won't stand. We have to continue to push back against police brutality.
Source: Democracy Now on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Jul 29, 2020

Raphael Warnock: Mass incarceration a scar on the soul of America

He held a conference at Ebenezer on ending mass incarceration and invited the Central Park 5 (now commonly referred to as the Exonerated 5) to participate. Now adults, the then-teenagers were wrongly arrested and convicted in the 1989 beating and rape of a white female jogger in New York City's Central Park. Warnock called mass incarceration a scar on the soul of America.
Source: Atlanta Journal-Const. on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Mar 2, 2020

Raphael Warnock: Police accountability and bias training, against defunding

Q: Restrict police use of force and increase public oversight?

Raphael Warnock: Yes. Wants increased accountability and bias training and a uniform standard for the use of force. Does not support defunding.

Kelly Loeffler: No. Co-sponsored resolutions supporting "Back the Blue" and opposing calls to defund. Critics failing "to support law enforcement at a time when they need it most."

Source: CampusElect on 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Raphael Warnock: You can affirm what officers do; hold them accountable

Warnock: I've been working on criminal justice reform. I've worked alongside law enforcement officers to do that work. We need somebody who knows how to bring people together rather than using these issues as a political point to be made. These issues are tragic and our law enforcement officers lay it on the line every day. They have an ally with me. I just think that you can affirm what law enforcement officers do and hold them accountable.
Source: Senate Runoff: 2019-20 Georgia 2-year Senate debate Dec 6, 2020

Shane Hazel: Release all non-violent offenders; end drug war

Q: Do you think America and Georgia still struggle with systemic racism? What safeguards, if any, should be enacted to ensure people of color are not disproportionately afflicted by law enforcement, the criminal justice system, income inequality, and other factors?

A: Here is how we fix the broken criminal justice system:

Source: Atlanta Magazine on 2020 Georgia Senate race Oct 27, 2020

Stacey Abrams: Voted YES on criminalizing "up-skirting"

HB 9: Commonly known as "up skirting," legislation criminalizes knowingly using any device or apparatus to observe, photograph, videotape, film, or record underneath such person's clothing for the purpose of viewing intimate body parts or undergarments without the person's consent. Also unlawful to disseminate any such image or recording. MY VOTE: YES
Source: 2018 campaign website on Georgia voting record HB 9 Mar 30, 2017

Stacey Abrams: Voted NO on 10-year minimum for assaulting a cop

HB 258: Amends the Code regarding the aggravated assault of a peace officer by increasing the minimum sentence to ten years of imprisonment. If the aggravated assault of a peace officer involves the discharge of a firearm, none of the mandatory minimum sentence can be probated, stayed, suspended, deferred or withheld.

MY VOTE: NO. I disagree with the increase of mandatory minimums and the lack of discretion available to judges to fully determine if extenuating circumstances are present.

Source: 2018 campaign website on Georgia voting record HB 258 Mar 30, 2017

Stacey Abrams: Justice should not be determined by your paycheck

Stacey will focus on reforming bail policies, decriminalizing traffic offenses, increasing training that recognizes implicit bias, and stopping the shameful practices of private probation companies. We must expand reforms to support community policing. However, reform efforts must also recognize that disparities in school funding, health care access, and job opportunities are inextricably related to over-incarceration and prolonged probation sentences.
Source: 2018 Georgia Governor website StaceyAbrams.com Aug 17, 2017

Ted Terry: Supports "civilian-led policing" board hiring, firing police

There is this model called civilian-led policing. I know it's still controversial, but I want to work toward it. The concept of any civilian-led board being in charge of hiring and firing of the police, to me, makes all the sense in the world, because the police are the part of our government that interacts the most with ordinary civilians. I truly believe it creates a standard where the officers are even more accountable to the civilians that they're protecting.
Source: Under the Radar Mag on 2020 Georgia Senate race Dec 19, 2019

Teresa Tomlinson: End abuse of cash bail bonds & for-profit prisons

Source: 2020 Georgia Senate campaign website, TeresaTomlinson.com Jan 12, 2020

Teresa Tomlinson: Fund reentry programs and restore voting rights to ex-felons

Source: 2020 Georgia Senate campaign website, TeresaTomlinson.com Jan 12, 2020

Tony Evers: As long as I'm governor, we back the blue!

I don't believe it's ever been more dangerous or more challenging to wear a law enforcement uniform, but police officers across our state have made us proud. Our state cannot prosper or reap a good harvest without safe communities, safe streets, and safe
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to Georgia legislature Jan 14, 2021

Tony Evers: Reform laws to help victims of sex trafficking

Let's build on the work done by the GRACE Commission by implementing more training programs that equip Georgians to prevent instances of sex slavery. Let's make common sense reforms to our laws, so survivors seeking a name change to build a new life no longer have to take out an ad in the paper that puts their safety at risk, and let's strengthen our statutes to add a civil remedy that allows victims to seek court action against their traffickers or those who knowingly aided in trafficking.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to Georgia legislature Jan 14, 2021

Vernon Jones: Support the federal death penalty

Source: Georgia Congressional Election 2008 Political Courage Test Jul 2, 2008

Vernon Jones: Approved 10-year minimum for assaulting a cop

Legislative Summary: HB 258: Amends the Code regarding the aggravated assault of a peace officer by increasing the minimum sentence to ten years of imprisonment. If the aggravated assault of a peace officer involves the discharge of a firearm, none of the mandatory minimum sentence can be probated, stayed, suspended, deferred or withheld.

Speaker Stacey Abrams opinion in support of voting NO: I disagree with the increase of mandatory minimums and the lack of discretion available to judges to fully determine if extenuating circumstances are present.

Legislative Outcome:Passed House 120-51-9 on Mar/3/17; State Rep. Vernon Jones voted YES

Source: Speaker Stacey Abrams website on Georgia voting record HB258 Mar 3, 2017

Vernon Jones: I cannot stand for the defunding of the police

I am no longer a Democrat. I cannot stand for the defunding of the police, higher taxes on working families and job-killing socialist policies that will devastate Americans of all walks of life. Now, let me make one thing clear--I haven't changed. The Democratic Party has changed. It's become a toxic combination of radical leftists and liberal elites in San Francisco and Hollywood have taken over my former Party.
Source: Jones in Fox News: on 2022 Georgia Gubernatorial race Jan 8, 2021

Vernon Jones: Make attacks for party affiliation or ideology a hate crime

Jones will introduce the Jones Amendment that will make it punishable to commit a crime based on a person's political party affiliation or ideology. "Americans are being attacked because of their party affiliation and political ideology. I have personally been subjected to hate speech and threats because of my support for Trump's reelection," said Jones. "While we are discussing hate crimes legislation in Georgia, this could address another form of hate crime that people are experiencing."
Source: Valdosta Today on 2022 Georgia Gubernatorial race Jan 8, 2021

Zell Miller: Drunk drivers are criminals and deserve tough punishment

We all know that DUI has been a plague on our streets and highways... that it has caused unnecessary death and bloodshed. DUI criminals -- and that's what they are, criminals -- can terrorize any one of us at a moment's notice. It can be prevented. That is why drunk drivers have found no mercy during the Miller Administration. We passed one of the toughest DUI laws in America: Mandatory jail time for drunk drivers. Confiscation of license plates.
Source: 1998 Georgia State of the State Address Jan 15, 1998

Zell Miller: Two-strikes law got 1,710 ciminals behind bars

We passed "two-strikes and you're out." Thanks to that law, there are 1,710 violent criminals who are locked away in Georgia prisons. Collectively, those 1,710 thugs were responsible for more than 9,800 crimes, including over 4,900 violent crimes. Thanks to the two-strikes law, they are no longer a threat to the law-abiding people of Georgia.
Source: 1998 Georgia State of the State Address Jan 15, 1998

Raphael Warnock: End cash bail for nonviolent crimes

[GOP opponent Herschel] Walker has touted support of fully funding police and law enforcement so they have adequate staff, equipment and training. Walker has attacked Warnock's support for ending "cash bail" for nonviolent crimes. Warnock said cash bail makes it harder for someone accused of a crime, specifically lower income Americans, to be released on bail while awaiting a trial.

During his short tenure, Warnock has supported grants for law enforcement and has expressed support for a bill that would fund training, equipment and mental health support, among others, for local law enforcement.

Source: The Hill on 2022 Georgia Senate race Oct 8, 2022

Stacey Abrams: $25 million in state grants for police salary raises

[Republican Gov. Brian] Kemp has focused on initiatives cracking down on gang violence and sex trafficking. Both candidates support increased pay for law enforcement. Kemp this year increased state law enforcement pay by $5,000.

If elected, Abrams plans to provide $25 million in state grants to local agencies for salary raises and plans to raise base salary for state patrol, correctional officers and community supervision officers to approximately $50,000 per year. She has discussed plans to develop initiatives to increase law enforcement accountability and accountability.

Source: The Hill on 2022 Georgia Gubernatorial race Oct 8, 2022

Stacey Abrams: We cannot punish our way into public safety

My intent is to balance public safety and justice. Because doing otherwise has never worked. We cannot punish our way into public safety. But we also have to recognize that there are deep challenges in how law enforcement engages our communities. And that is why I'm pushing both for public safety measures, accountability measures, and criminal justice reform measures.
Source: Fox News Sunday on 2022 Georgia Governor race Jun 26, 2022

Brian Kemp: Come after our children, and we will come after you!

For far too many Georgians, the safety of their families and homes is put at risk by the unchecked crimes of street gangs. We created the GBI's Anti-Gang Task Force to take the fight to these criminals. And you gave the state a new tool to ensure justice--the Gang Prosecution Unit in the Office of Attorney General. The Attorney General and his team have already indicted over fifty gang members in just the first six months of standing up this unit, with more on the way!

In communities across our state, gangs are actively recruiting children as young as elementary school students into a life of crime. They are targeting the most innocent among us, pulling them down a dark path that too often leads to either a prison cell or the cemetery. That is why, along with the Attorney General, I'm proposing legislation that will increase penalties for those trying to recruit our children into a gang. Let me be clear: come after our children, and we will come after you!

Source: 2023 State of the State Address to the Georgia legislature Jan 25, 2023

  • The above quotations are from State of Georgia Politicians: Archives.
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2016 Presidential contenders on Crime:
  Republicans:
Gov.Jeb Bush(FL)
Dr.Ben Carson(MD)
Gov.Chris Christie(NJ)
Sen.Ted Cruz(TX)
Carly Fiorina(CA)
Gov.Jim Gilmore(VA)
Sen.Lindsey Graham(SC)
Gov.Mike Huckabee(AR)
Gov.Bobby Jindal(LA)
Gov.John Kasich(OH)
Gov.Sarah Palin(AK)
Gov.George Pataki(NY)
Sen.Rand Paul(KY)
Gov.Rick Perry(TX)
Sen.Rob Portman(OH)
Sen.Marco Rubio(FL)
Sen.Rick Santorum(PA)
Donald Trump(NY)
Gov.Scott Walker(WI) 		Democrats:
Gov.Lincoln Chafee(RI)
Secy.Hillary Clinton(NY)
V.P.Joe Biden(DE)
Gov.Martin O`Malley(MD)
Sen.Bernie Sanders(VT)
Sen.Elizabeth Warren(MA)
Sen.Jim Webb(VA)

2016 Third Party Candidates:
Gov.Gary Johnson(L-NM)
Roseanne Barr(PF-HI)
Robert Steele(L-NY)
Dr.Jill Stein(G,MA)
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Page last updated: Feb 18, 2023