Lawmakers: Spotlight

Latest Episodes:

Condemning Political Violence: A Call for Civility Jun 21, 2025

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Georgia Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II reflects on the rise in political violence following a deadly shooting targeting Minnesota lawmakers. He emphasizes the need for respectful discourse, better security coordination for elected officials, and a cultural shift away from demonizing political opponents.

Inside the Off-Season: Summer Work at the Capitol Jun 14, 2025

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Georgia lawmakers may only be in session for 40 days, but the work of governing continues year-round. In this episode, we look at how study committees, constituent meetings, and behind-the-scenes research shape the laws that get introduced each January.

Athens at the Center of Immigration Controversy Jun 07, 2025

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This episode features a conversation with two Athens lawmakers who share opposing views on immigration policy and the sanctuary jurisdiction label. They discuss the impact of recent legislation, local law enforcement cooperation with federal authorities, and proposals for immigration reform in Georgia.

State Representative Kasey Carpenter on Immigration Reform May 29, 2025

Show notes

This week on Lawmakers Huddle: Immigration laws have come under increased scrutiny with the arrest and detention by ICE of a 19-year-old college student in Dalton. Donna Lowry spoke with Republican State Representative Kasey Carpenter to discuss his interest in immigration reform.

Clearing the Path to Work May 24, 2025

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This episode explores how delays in Georgia’s professional licensing system have kept qualified workers from entering the state’s workforce. New laws taking effect on July 1 aim to streamline the process, helping professionals such as nurses, therapists, and accountants get to work more efficiently.

New Protections for People and Pets May 17, 2025

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This episode features two bipartisan bills aimed at protecting vulnerable Georgians. Lawmakers passed new legislation to support survivors of domestic violence during sentencing and to crack down on the unregulated roadside sale of pets.

New Deal Forum Idea Summit May 10, 2025

Show notes

More than 50 policymakers gathered in Atlanta for the New Deal Forum Idea Summit, focusing on effective governance and leadership development. Georgia lawmakers emphasized the importance of collaboration on key issues, such as healthcare, economic security, and housing, to enhance lives across the state.

Where Georgia Helped Heal a Nation Apr 12, 2025

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Donna Lowry explores the history and legacy of Warm Springs, Georgia—a place of healing for President Franklin D. Roosevelt and a catalyst for modern rehabilitative care. Lawmakers discuss recent efforts to restore its therapeutic pools and reflect on the state's role in the fight against polio.

Battleground: Ballot Box — Lawmakers Huddle: A recap of the Georgia legislative session Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

This week on Lawmakers Huddle, host Donna Lowry recaps the end of Georgia’s 2025 legislative session and explores concerns over the state budget and potential federal funding cuts. The episode also features the swearing-in of Barbara Rivera-Holmes as Georgia’s first female labor commissioner.

Sine Die Surprises: From Walkouts to DEI Debates Apr 04, 2025

Show notes

As Sine Die arrives, legislators face a packed agenda—including the 2026 state budget—after late-night sessions and surprise protests. From a heated debate over gender-affirming care in prisons to election law changes and efforts to ban DEI programs in schools, tensions run high. Plus, the team celebrates a milestone for longtime GPB photojournalist Wesley Nichols.

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