Race Kicks Off For Next Ga. House Majority Leader
Gov. Nathan Deal announced Thursday he’d be appointing House Majority Leader Larry O’Neal, R- Bonaire, to a judgeship. That means one of the most powerful positions at the Capitol is now open. Several Republicans are already campaigning to take O’Neal’s place.
Rep. Allen Peake, R-Macon, has formally thrown his hat in the ring. He’s best known for his successful campaign to legalize the limited use of medical marijuana.
“I’m a former CEO. I’m a small business owner. I believe I can be a good voice for our caucus on our core Republican values,” Peake said.
Rep. Jon Burns, R-Newington, has also formally announced. Other names being floated include Sam Teasley, R-Marietta, and Chuck Martin, R-Alpharetta.
Tom Crawford, editor of the Georgia Report, expects the House speaker to favor a more centrist candidate who may not be as popular with the more conservative wing of the caucus.
“If a John Burns or if an Allen Peake ends up being the next majority leader it probably would not upset the balance of power that much because both of them would be considered moderate candidates,” Crawford said.
House GOP members will vote on O’Neal’s replacement May 11.
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