Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast
WABE
A Georgia politics roundup from the WABE newsroom. From under the Gold Dome or across the state, reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk to politicians and experts to break down each week’s biggest headlines in Georgia.
Legislative priorities are on the move as Georgia General Assembly hits halfway mark
Georgia state lawmakers are now halfway through the 40-day legislative session. Between former President Jimmy Carter's funeral, the presidential inauguration and a snow storm, the session got of to a slow start. But now some big ticket items are on the move. On this week's episode of "Plugged In," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali take a closer look at some of those bills, including one that would compel local governments to help with immigration enforcement and a school safety package respondi
Georgia lawmakers, public dig into Gov. Kemp's top legislative priority
Georgia state lawmakers this week started digging into Governor Brian Kemp’s signature policy push this session – overhauling the state’s civil litigation rules, often referred to as tort or lawsuit reform. On this week’s episode of “Plugged In,” hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali bring listeners into the first committee hearing on the issue, where lawmakers and a packed room of observers got to hear from people on different sides of the debate.See omnystudio.c
At the Georgia Capitol, debate turns to school safety and girls sports
Lawmakers are wrapping up a busy week at the State Capitol as they take their first votes on the budget and banning transgender girls from playing on girls school sports teams. On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss these and other new legislative proposals including on school safety.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Governor Kemp outlines his top priority as new Trump policies start playing out in Georgia
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has outlined his top legislative priority – reigning in civil litigation, often referred to as tort reform. Also on this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali take a closer look at Democrats' effort to expand Medicaid in Georgia, and their proposal's difficult path ahead. Plus, President Donald Trump's moves to reshape the government are already starting to play out in Georgia.See omnystudio.com/listener for p
Freezing temps greet new administration and scramble legislative agenda
As temperatures plunged, Georgia and Washington, D.C. prepared for the start of President Donald Trump’s second term. On this week’s “Plugged In,” WABE Politics Reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the first week of the new administration, the ongoing court fight over Georgia’s redistricting maps and the state’s response to bird flu in two commercial flocks. We also hear from one of the January 6th defendants from Georgia who received a pardon –
Fast start for Gov. Kemp and lawmakers in first week of legislative session
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp delivered his seventh State of the State address at the State Capitol on Thursday. In it he applauded the state’s resilience through natural disasters, the pandemic, economic upheaval and a deadly school shooting and cast Georgia’s approach to health, budgeting and public safety as a model for other states to emulate, declaring “the Georgia Way is indeed the better way.” On this week’s episode of “Plugged In: A WABE Politi
Former President and Georgia native Jimmy Carter laid to rest
Georgia’s only president, Jimmy Carter, was laid to rest this week in the rural corner of Southwest Georgia where he was born a century ago. On this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali share what they saw and heard as Carter’s life and accomplishments were celebrated throughout Georgia. Plus, a preview of the 2025 legislative session, which kicks off next week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
ENCORE: How Plains, Georgia shaped former President Jimmy Carter
Former President Jimmy Carter died Sunday at 100. On this encore episode, WABE's Sam Gringlas looks at how two tiny towns in South Georgia shaped two U.S. presidents. We also preview six days of tributes planned to celebrate the life of the 39th president.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2024 was a big year in Georgia politics. What’s in store for 2025? (Plus a little trivia)
On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," we take stock of the year in Georgia politics, including a recent court decision removing Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis from the Georgia election interference case, which represents the last remaining criminal charges against President-elect Donald Trump. Plus we look ahead to 2025 and test our editors' knowledge of the news in 2024 with a "Plugged In" game show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia’s newest lawmakers get ready to head to the Gold Dome
Twenty-two new state lawmakers will take their seats at the State Capitol when the Georgia General Assembly reconvenes on January 13th. Among them is Bryce Berry, who at just 23 is one of the youngest state lawmakers in Georgia history. On this week’s episode of “Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast,” hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali speak with reporter Jasmine Robinson, who recentlytalked with the freshman lawmaker. Plus, a look inside the Biennial Institute for Georgia L
What Trump's agenda on housing and health could mean for Georgia
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has a lot of ideas about how to reshape healthcare in America. He's President-Elect Donald Trump's pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Potential changes are worrying public health experts. Policy shifts are also expected at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. In this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali continu
What Trump's agenda on the environment and immigration could mean for Georgia
President-elect Donald Trump has picked several immigration hard-liners for top posts and he plans to fill key energy and environment roles with oil and gas supporters who have pledged to slash regulations. On this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," hosts Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali speak with immigration reporter Emily Wu Pearson and environment reporter Marisa Mecke about how the incoming Trump administration could affect the state of Georgia.See omnystudio.com/listener f
Republicans take power as Democrats regroup
Every Georgia county has now certified the results of the 2024 election. Historically, this has been a relatively uncontroversial procedural step. Since 2020, that hasn't been the case. But with Donald Trump's victory in Georgia, talk of election fraud has died down. In this week's edition of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali describe how the state is grappling with the fallout of the 2024 election. Plus, Georgia Democrats assess what went wrong, Georgi
Georgia’s shift right helps propel Trump to second term
Former President Donald Trump will be the 47th president of the United States. Nearly 5.3 million Georgians voted, breaking the turnout record set during the 2020 election. Trump received 50.7% of Georgia's vote, turning the swing state red after President Joe Biden's victory four years ago. On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali explain how Trump won the Peach State. Plus, a look at the results of some competitive down bal
Election Day is coming
Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are making their closing arguments with election day less than a week away. On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali preview what to expect on election night. Plus, a look at some of the competitive state legislative races in Metro Atlanta, an examination of Trump's complicated relationship with Governor Brian Kemp and how it could shape the outcome of the electio
Concerns about political violence come into focus as presidential campaigns push to the finish
The FBI is warning that extremists with concerns about the election could turn to violence in the coming weeks.In this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali take the political temperature in Georgia.Plus, former Presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama return to Atlanta and an explanation of those wordy and confusing ballot measures dealing with taxes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Time to vote: Georgia smashes a turnout record as early voting starts
Early voting is now underway in Georgia and over 300,000 voters showed up on the first day, more than doubling the previous record set in 2020.With less than three weeks to go until election day, WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the latest election news in this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast."Plus, two Georgia judges have undercut a series of controversial rules passed by the State Election Board. The rulings amounted to a rebuke of the board's
Indian Americans in Georgia continue to expand their political influence
Georgia's growing Indian-American community is getting more politically involved, both as voters and as candidates.On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali take listeners to the Festival of India in Atlanta and discuss how this community could shape local and presidential races in Georgia.Plus, more drama with the State Election Board and actress and Smyrna native Julia Roberts campaigns for Vice President Kamala Harris in Ca
Climate change is fueling extreme weather, even in areas far from the coast
Hurricane Helene left a path of devastation across the Southeast, killing more than 200 people since making landfall in Florida. Hundreds are still missing.On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," climate reporter Emily Jones and environment reporter Marisa Mecke discuss the historic storm, how climate change is making extreme weather worse and what we can learn from the disaster.Plus, politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali unpack a judge's ruling overturning Geor
With just weeks to go, election rules and rulings are in flux
With a little more than a month left until election day, Georgia's State Election Board has approved several last-minute changes to the election process, despite opposition from Republican state officials and local election officials.Tensions on the board are growing as Republican members hint that their work is not done and criticize those who question their motives.On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the new ru
Does a new state law discriminate against homeless voters?
The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a point this week and further cuts are expected between now and the end of next year.Mortgage rates have already started coming down in anticipation of the rate cuts, making it easier for many to buy a home, but home ownership still remains out of reach for millions of Americans.On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporter Sam Gringlas speaks with housing reporter Stephannie Stokes about the housing policie
How Georgia voters saw the Trump-Harris debate
Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump debated Tuesday for the first and possibly the only time before Election Day.On this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," the team shares their stories of watching the debate.Plus, an update on the fight to keep or remove third-party and independent presidential candidates on Georgia's ballot and a rundown of recent proposals put out in response to the deadly shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia.Se
Elected officials respond to deadliest school shooting in Georgia history
Two students and two teachers are dead after a 14-year-old student opened fire inside a Barrow County high school on Wednesday. The student, and his 54-year-old father, are now facing multiple charges.In this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss how elected officials are responding to the deadliest school shooting in Georgia history and how the tragedy has reignited the debate over the state's gun laws and school safety.See omnyst
Harris looks to win over voters outside Atlanta
Vice President Kamala Harris wrapped up a campaign swing in coastal Georgia with a Savannah rally on Thursday.Harris, along with her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, visited a marching band practice and a barbecue restaurant, among other local stops.The goal, campaign strategists say, is to show Democrats are serious about winning votes outside of Metro Atlanta, as political reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss on this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast."Pl
Georgia makes a splash at the Democratic National Convention
Vice President Kamala Harris has officially accepted her party's historic nomination for president.Atlanta may have missed out on hosting the Democratic National Convention this year, but the city's culture was prominently on display.In this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss what happened at the DNC and introduce listeners to some of the Georgians who were there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia is facing a maternal mortality crisis
Georgia’s maternal mortality rate is among the worst in the nation and health officials say the vast majority of pregnancy related deaths in the state are preventable.WABE Health Reporter Jess Mador has been reporting on the crisis and potential solutions. She joined WABE’s Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali for this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Explaining Georgia's new rule on certifying elections
A new rule approved by the Georgia State Election Board could open the door for local election boards to refuse to certify election results. The measure will go into effect ahead of the November presidential election.On this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," political reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the new rule, which is just one sentence long, and how opponents worry it could have sweeping consequences this fall in a critical swing state if local election m
Is the Sun Belt back in play?
Thirty-three days after President Joe Biden’s ill-fated debate in Atlanta, Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in Atlanta this week as the new presumptive Democratic presidential nominee.On this week’s edition of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," Reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss how Harris is trying to muster the coalition of voters of color, independents and disaffected Republicans who helped propel Democratic wins in 2020.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgians react as President Biden ends his bid for reelection
It's been yet another historic week in the 2024 presidential race as President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid and backed Vice President Kamala Harris in his place.On this week’s edition of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporter Rahul Bali and photographer Matthew Pearson gauge political reactions in Georgia to the change at the top of the Democratic ticket.Plus a conversation about the ethical considerations news photographers have to make in the field and as they're filing
Republicans re-nominate Trump days after attempted assassination
Georgia's Republican Governor Brian Kemp and Republican Vice Presidential nominee J.D. Vance both have complicated relationships with former President and now Republican nominee Donald Trump.Plus, Black communities in swing states like Georgia could be one of the most important voting blocs in the upcoming presidential election, especially for the Democratic Party.WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali and education reporter Juma Sei dive into these issues and discuss how they could impact the result
Can popular governors in Michigan and Georgia lift Biden and Trump?
Georgia and Michigan moved in tandem during the last two presidential elections, elevating Donald Trump in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020. But in the midterms, they elected governors who pushed their states in opposite directions and are now rising stars on the national stage at a time when many voters are unhappy with the choices for president.WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali dig into parallels between two crucial states on this week’s episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics
Come along for a Georgia presidential history summer road trip
The Peach State could be a deciding factor in the 2024 presidential election, as it was in 2020. But Georgia's status as a critical state in presidential history isn't new.On this week's special Independence Day episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," politics reporter Sam Gringlas takes listeners on a summer road trip to a pair of towns that helped shape former presidents Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Georgia's own Jimmy Carter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biden and Trump face off in Atlanta for first presidential debate
President Joe Biden faced Donald Trump in Atlanta on Thursday night during their first debate ahead of the November election. It was the first time the two have shared a stage since they last debated in October of 2020.In this week's episode of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast," WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the debate and how it could shape the trajectory of the 2024 presidential election.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How LGBTQ voters could shape the upcoming presidential election
LGBTQ voters are a highly engaged and growing voter bloc in Georgia and throughout the country. They’re also reliable Democratic supporters and a crucial demographic in tight elections.On this week’s special Pride Month episode of the "Plugged In" podcast, WABE politics reporter Sam Gringlas and guest host Patrick Saunders – WABE’s Supervising Digital Editor – discuss the LGBTQ community and how they fit into the upcoming presidential election.To learn more about the issues affecting LGBTQ peopl
New law could help third party, independent presidential candidates get on the GA ballot
Thanks to a new law, SB 189, it could be easier for third party and independent presidential candidates to make it onto Georgia ballots. And since Georgia's last presidential race was decided by less than 12,000 votes, the presence of those candidates could shape whether President Joe Biden or former President Donald Trump win in November. On this week’s episode of WABE’s “Plugged In,” politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss SB 189 and some of the candidates that could be joining
Atlanta water woes highlight city leadership, aging infrastructure
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is known for being a mayor who seems to be everywhere. But this week, he’s facing criticism over his being absent during the early hours of the city’s water emergency. That’s as Dickens has already faced protests over his support for the Atlanta Police Training Center. On this week's episode, politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss Dickens’ leadership and the spotlight the crisis has put on the city’s aging infrastructure.See omnystudio.com/listener for
What a historic conviction in New York means for Georgia
A jury in New York City has unanimously found former President Donald Trump guilty on 34 criminal counts for covering up hush money payments to an adult film star before the 2020 election. This is the first time in U.S. history that a former president has been convicted of felony crimes. On this week’s episode, WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the verdict and what it means for the 2024 election in Georgia. Plus an update on Trump's criminal case in Georgia.See omnystud
What do Georgia's primary results signal about the November election?
More than a million Georgians voted in the May primary and election officials are now gearing up for another round of voting as races where no candidate got more than 50% of the vote head to a runoff on June 18th. On this week’s episode, WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss one of those runoffs and explore whether any primary results provide clues about what's to come in November.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How the upcoming Georgia primary showcases Trump's influence on the modern GOP
Cherokee Rose Sporting Clays in Spalding County recently hosted a GOP debate featuring five primary candidates that are vying to represent Georgia's third Congressional district, which stretches from Atlanta's exurbs to the Alabama border. On this week's episode, WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk about this race and how it showcases former President Donald Trump's sway in the modern GOP. Plus a look at other Congressional and state house races ahead of Tuesday's primary.Se
Trump's on the ballot this year. So are the judge and prosecutor on his Georgia case.
Former President Donald Trump, the top defendant in the Georgia election interference case, isn't the only one on the 2024 ballot. So is the judge, Scott McAfee, and the prosecutor, District Attorney Fani Willis. In this week's episode, WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss these and some of the other big candidates you can expect to see on the ballot in Georgia's May election.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An inside look at the growing campus protests
Protests against the war in Gaza are continuing at Emory University and other campuses across the country. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas speak with criminal justice reporter Chamian Cruz, who was at Emory as law enforcement began removing protestors, and education reporter Juma Sei, who's been tracking the fallout at Emory and other colleges, where students are calling on their schools to divest from companies that do business with Israel.See omnystudio.com/listener for pri
On the right and left, activists and organizers prep for the campaign ahead
With less than 200 days until Election Day 2024, right-wing grassroots activists and progressive organizers are gearing up for the campaign ahead. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas bring listeners along as they attend two events, just forty miles apart but on polar opposites of the political spectrum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast
Launching this Friday, "Plugged In" is a Georgia politics roundup from the WABE newsroom. From under the Gold Dome or across the state, reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk to politicians and experts to break down each week’s biggest headlines in Georgia. Combining Sam and Rahul’s seasonal podcasts "Gold Dome Scramble" and "Georgia Votes," "Plugged In" brings context to Georgia’s politics news."Plugged In" premieres on Friday, April 26. Subscribe now to receiv
Is Georgia really a purple state? Or even a battleground?
Senator Raphael Warnock won a full term in the U.S Senate by a slim margin and became the only Democrat to win a statewide race this election cycle. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Emma Hurt with Axios Atlanta talk about what the outcome of this year's elections means for Georgia going forward. They also talk about what they will miss or not miss about covering this long year in Georgia elections. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Herschel Walker's campaign imposes 20 feet ban on reporters
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Herschel Walker has not spoken to reporters at campaign stops since October 6th and this week his campaign said no journalist will get closer than 20 feet to their candidate. The podcast team of WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta talk about what it's like to cover the Walker campaign in the runoff. They also check in on the campaign of incumbent Democrat Raphael Warnock. and talk about long lines of early voters in G
Questions we have for Herschel Walker if he were to talk to journalists
The Georgia U.S. Senate runoff race is in full swing, but Republican candidate Herschel Walker has not talked to journalists on the trail, so in this episode the crew contemplates the questions they would ask if they could. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Sam Gringlas, Rahul Bali and Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta also report on the stump speeches of Senator Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker and look at the role of Governor Brian Kemp in the Walker campaign. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy infor
Georgia Senate runoff race could become first Trump referendum
Former President Trump's announcement to seek another term has added a new dimension into Georgia's Senate runoff race, because Republican candidate Herschel Walker was encouraged by Trump to enter the race. For Democrats it's a chance to energize voters to return to the polls on December 6th. In this episode, WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk with Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta about how this dynamic plays out on the runoff campaign trail. See omnystudio.com/listener for pr
Georgia December runoff could determine which party will hold power in the U.S. Senate
Incumbent Senator Raphael Warnock and football legend Herschel Walker find themselves in a December 6th runoff that could once again determine which party controls the Senate. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali, and Sam Gringlas are joined by Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta in this episode where they talk about what's ahead in the next few weeks. They also discuss other Georgia election results and what they mean for politics going forward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Election outcome possibilities live from the Atlanta University Center
Georgia Votes is live this week at the Woodruff Library at the Atlanta University Center where we hear from young voters and contemplate various election outcome scenarios. Emma Hurt, Rahul Bali Sam Gringlas and Susanna Capelouto are joined on stage by Clark Atlanta University professor Tammy Greer. This show was made possible by the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Record voter turnout and the power of Georgia's LGBTQ voters
Georgia voters are turning out in record numbers and LGBTQ voters are becoming a powerful voting block. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali,and Sam Gringlas are joined by Emma Hurt with Axios Atlanta in this episode where they also welcome WABE digital editor Patrick Saunders, who just published a 3-part series on LGBTQ voters in the state. We also hear about the latest allegations against Senate candidate Hershel Walker and have details about our live event November 2nd at the Woodruff Library
The race for voters is on as turnout will decide the winners in Georgia
Campaigns are traveling the state as early voting has begun with record turnout for a midterm election, so far. WABE's Sam Gringlas, Rahul Bali, and Susanna Capelouto talk with Emma Hurt of Axios about what's behind those numbers. They also discuss recent debates and get a visit from WABE housing reporter Stephannie Stokes who sheds some light on the affordable housing issues recently raised by the Herschel Walker campaign. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Special Episode: The Savannah Senate Debate
Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker took to the debate stage in Savannah on Friday. It was the first time the two candidates were on the same stage. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas take a look at the debate highlights. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Warnock/Walker debate prep and election integrity with NPR's Miles Parks
Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock and his challenger Herschel Walker meet for their only debate on Friday, October 14th in Savannah. WABE's Politics team of Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas take a look at what to expect. They also get a visit from NPR National Correspondent Miles Parks, who covers voting and elections. Miles will be in Atlanta on October 20th at the Buckhead theater for a live taping of the NPR Politics podcast. More info on that is at wabe.org/events.See Privacy Pol
Herschel Walker's campaign rocked by abortion and abuse allegations
After the Daily Beast reported that GOP Senate candidate Herschel Walker paid a woman for an abortion and his son accused him on social media of being a liar, Walker said that he loved his son and denied the reporting in the Daily Beast stories. WABE has not independently verified the information. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali, and Sam Gringlas talk with Emma Hurt of Axios about the repercussions for other GOP candidates in Georgia. They also discuss efforts by some groups to remove peopl
The Fight for the Atlanta suburbs and split ticket voting in Georgia
Atlanta's suburbs have become the battleground as Republicans try to regain strength they lost in 2020. One indicator may be the split ticket voter. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas are joined by Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta. They discuss how officials are trying to get ahead of voting conspiracies for the November election and why Herschel Walker is zooming in on wedge issues like transgender sports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Could Asian American Voters again be key to winning Georgia?
AAPI voters are credited with tipping the balance for Democrats in 2020 in Georgia, but Republicans have started to court them, too. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk about how the parties are engaging a small, but powerful voting minority. They also discuss recent polling that shows tight races, election integrity, and UGA football.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Abortion politics are shifting ahead of Midterms in Georgia
Abortion politics are shifting ahead of the Midterms in Georgia as Democrats are leaning into the issue and Republicans are downplaying its possible impact. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas are joined by Emma Hurt of Axios to talk about what candidates are saying on the campaign trail. They also discuss tightening polls in the races for Governor and U.S. Senate, and will explain why Republicans are listed first on Georgia ballots. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy info
The fight for Georgia's rural and suburban voters
Democrats are looking for voters in rural Georgia, and Republicans are trying to regain ground in the Atlanta suburbs. Emma Hurt, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk about their reporting in South Georgia and suburban Atlanta. They also have updates on the race for U.S. Senate, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams makes an appearance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Healthcare becomes big campaign issue after Atlanta hospital closure announcement
When a major medial center in Atlanta announce this week that it has to close because it was losing too much money, Georgia's refusal to expand Medicaid was catapulted into the race for Governor between incumbent Brian Kemp and Democrat Stacey Abrams. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk about the effect the closure could have on the race. They also have an update on the Fulton County special grand jury that's investigating whether former President Trump and his allies trie
Governor Kemp in court because of Georgia's 2020 elections investigation
Lawyers for Governor Brian Kemp were in court this week trying to quash a subpoena to appear before a special grand jury that's investigating possible interference in Georgia's 2020 election results. WABE's Susanna Capelouto talks with politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas about the significance of the governor's possible testimony and its political implications. They also discuss a group of LGBTQ state lawmakers expressing their worries that Georgia's constitutional ban on same-sex mar
Georgia Democrats look for bounce from Inflation Reduction Act
Georgia Democrats are looking to capitalize on the new climate and health law they call the Inflation Reduction Act. Emma Hurt with Axios Atlanta and WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali talk about how the law reverberates among voters. Also, Rudi Giuliani made a visit to Georgia this week to testify before a special grand jury looking into possible election interference by former President Trump and his allies. And Emma polled prominent Georgia Republicans about same sex marria
Dueling visions of Georgia's economy emerge in Governor's race
Governor Brian Kemp and his challenger Stacey Abrams made the economy a major campaign issue this week. WABE's Susanna Capelouto talks with Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Emma Hurt with Axios Atlanta about their proposals. They also check in on the race for the U.S. Senate and dissect the various court hearings that saw lawyers for Rudi Giuliani and Lindsey Graham in Georgia this week fighting subpoenas from a Fulton county special grand jury that's looking into whether former President Trump ille
Abortion and guns vs. the economy in Georgia governor's race
Abortion and guns were two big topics on the campaign trail this week. WABE's Susanna Capelouto and Rahul Bali talk with Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta about how the Kansas abortion vote reverberates in Georgia. They also have the latest on the debate over Senate debates, which has become a distraction from other issues in the race between incumbent Democrat Raphael Warnock and Republican Herschel Walker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The debate over debates amidst tightening polls in Georgia's Senate race
Senator Raphael Warnock has made Senate candidate Herschel Walker's reluctance to have a debate an issue in his latest ad. This week WABE's Sam Gringlas and Susanna Capelouto talk with Emma Hurt of Axios about how the "debate debate" is playing out. They also tackle a new AJC poll out this week, talk about a ballot drop box investigation and bring you updates on the implementation of Georgia's 6-week abortion ban. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia's 6 week abortion ban becomes law and a major campaign issue
Georgia's 6 week abortion ban becomes law. NPR National Correspondent Sarah McCammon joins the WABE politics team to talk about national trends in states with similar abortion restrictions. Sam Gringlas, Rahul Bali, Susanna Capelouto and Emma Hurt with Axios also look at the specifics of Georgia's new abortion restrictions and how they may play out on the campaign trail this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talk voting conspiracies and new election laws with special guest Jessica Huseman of Votebeat
Jessica Huseman of Votebeat talks about persisting conspiracy theories around voting and discusses Georgia's new voting law with WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali, as well as Emma Hurt of Axios Atlanta. Why do people continue to believe 2020 election lies, despite so much evidence to the contrary, so many court rulings dismissing claims and countless well-researched stories from reporters clearly showing there was no widespread fraud? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy i
Georgia Democrats bank on battleground status and diversity to score presidential primary
Georgia Democrats released a video arguing the state deserves to be one of the first to hold a presidential primary because of its diversity and newly minted battleground status. WABE's Politics team of Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk about Georgia's chances . They also discuss voter turnout efforts, the special grand jury investigation into whether former President Trump tried to influence Georgia's 2020 election results and the status of Georgia's new abortion law currently
Abortion ruling could upend health, law and politics in Georgia
A week ago, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal right to abortion, but in Georgia people are still waiting to know what happens next. What will the landmark Supreme Court ruling on abortion mean for Georgia?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The system held, but barely: Trump's Georgia pressure campaign
Congressional investigators are showing the public the fallout from former President Trump’s election lies in Georgia. Will it make a difference? Plus, runoff election results, a debate over the gas tax and the confluence of politics and Pride Month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Runoffs and investigations show how Trump wields power
From Washington to Georgia – what are we learning about Trump’s hold on the GOP? Tuesday's Republican runoffs are the latest test of Trump's endorsement. And Georgia is playing a key role as a Congressional panel investigates January 6th. Plus, how will Stacey Abrams' endorsements fare and will a string of negative reporting hurt GOP Senate nominee Herschel Walker?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Abortion and guns start to dominate Georgia midterms
Some Republicans are moving to the far-right on abortion as they try to win primary runoffs, and the debate over gun safety is all but ignored by Georgia Republicans. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss how a move to the right by Georgia Republicans could resonate in the November midterm elections. They also talk about how student loan forgiveness could factor into motivating younger voters. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Can Democrats recreate their 2020 magic in Georgia?
Georgia Democrats hope to unite their November ticket and recreate some of the energy that got two U.S. Senators elected in 2021. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk about what it may take to bring back that magic as the Trump influence over Georgia is waning. The politics team also talks about runoff races to be decided this month and di-sects a complicated voting machine mishap in a county commission race that was caused by human error. See omnystudio.com/listener for pr
Georgia Votes 2022: Stacey Abrams vs. Brian Kemp, the next chapter
After Tuesday's primaries in Georgia the stage is set for a rematch between Democrat Stacey Abrams and incumbent Republican Governor Brian Kemp. WABE's politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas talk with Emma Hurt of Axios about the messaging Georgia's Republican and Democratic parties are preparing for their campaigns. They also discuss the remarkable comeback of Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who was shunned by Trump, but unexpectedly won his primary.See omnystudio.com/lis
Georgia Votes 2022: Trump loses in Georgia again... for the most part.
Last night Trump backed candidates did not do well in Georgia's Republican primaries. Only UGA football legend Hershel Walker, who was pushed into the U.S. Senate race by Trump, easily secured his nomination, though he ran much on his own celebrity. WABE's politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss primary election night results in this special episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: What will be the Trump effect on Georgia's primaries?
The WABE politics team of Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Susanna Capelouto will be looking for clues in next Tuesday's primaries that will reveal the power former President Donald Trump has over Georgia's GOP. He's endorsed at least 10 candidates up and down the ballot. Meanwhile, Democrats are seeing a bitter battle in the 7th congressional district, because of Republican led redistricting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Swing voters could be key in Georgia midterm elections
With only days left before the May 24th primary we hear from swing voters and those who already cast their ballots. WABE's Susanna Capelouto talks with politics reporter Rahul Bali and Emma Hurt with Axios about what they're seeing as campaigns are heading into the home stretch. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Republican politicians push for a total abortion ban to get noticed in the primaries.
During recent debates Georgia Republican primary candidates vowed to outlaw all abortions, even in cases of incest or rape. WABE's Susanna Capelouto, Rahul Bali, Sam Gringlas and Emma Hurt from Axios talk about this and other campaign 2022 issues, including early voting numbers that show a lot of enthusiasm among Republicans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Hitting the airwaves
With less than a month to go before the Georgia primary, candidates are making their closing arguments on the campaign trail, the debate stage... and on TV. WABE politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali, with Axios reporter Emma Hurt, talk campaign ads, debates and the start of early voting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Can Marjorie Taylor Greene be defeated?
Controversial Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene faces at least 4 opponents in the Republican primary on May 24th, but is she vulnerable? WABE politics editor Susanna Capelouto, and politics reporters Sam Gringlas and Rahul Bali discuss the race in Georgia's 14th congressional district. They also have updates on Georgia's race for governor and discuss a brewing voter registration controversy involving the Department of Driver's Services.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Guns and gripes enter the primary campaign world
Incumbent Governor Brian Kemp is trying to fend of Republican challengers by solidifying his pro-gun stance and GOP Senate candidate Herschel Walker refuses to debate his opponents. WABE's Rahul Bali and Susanna Capelouto talk with Emma Hurt of Axios about these and other issues including the money that's already pouring into Georgia's midterm elections. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Georgia Votes 2022: Setting the stage, because Georgia politics influences everything
What happens in Georgia this November, will have national implications as Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock is up for re-election. But first there are party primaries May 24th, where former President Donald Trump has endorsed several candidates to challenge incumbent Republicans. It'll be a test of his influence over Georgia Republicans. WABE Politics reporter Sam Gringlas and Axios reporter Emma Hurt talk with editor Susanna Capelouto about what's ahead in the primary,See omnystudio.com/