Democrats React To Deal’s State of The State Address
Georgia’s top Democrats had mixed reactions to Deal’s speech.
Senate Minority leader Steve Henson (D – Tucker) was disappointed. He says Gov. Deal should have been more specific about how to increase transportation funding.
“I would have liked to have seen leadership today on how that formula and how that funding will come.”
Henson also says the governor didn’t mention a way to save Georgia hospitals that could shut down.
“The rural healthcare system is really in danger, and he didn’t mention anything about Medicaid expansion, or how we’re going to address hospitals in this state that higher percentages of uninsured.”
Henson was also critical of Gov. Deal’s plan to infuse more than $1 billion dollars into K-12 education during the next two budget years. He says the money isn’t enough to account for enrollment growth and to restore education cuts made during the recent recession.
House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams (D – Atlanta) had a more positive take on Deal’s speech.
“I appreciate the direction he’s taking: focusing on criminal justice reform, education and transportation; all are critical issues, and I look forward to seeing the details of his proposal.”
Both Henson and Abrams raised concerns about Deal’s proposal to take over failing school districts, but say they want to see more details before deciding whether they will support or oppose the plan.
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