We've read a lot about Ralph "Wonderboy" Reed's ties to the Abramoff scandals and how Casinogate is affecting his Georgia Lieutenant Governor candidacy; but we haven't heard a whole lot about the two Democratic frontrunners for the primary race to be Ralph's opponent.
I saw a few billboards about them when driving around Atlanta last weekend during a friend's birthday party weekend (yes, I missed YK because it was a milestone b-day!). They piqued my curiosity, so I did a little Netsearch. Who are these guys, anyway; and how can you help their campaigns?
More on the flip.
Because I'm not a Georgian and have no voting rights there, I don't feel I can give an opinion on whom to choose during primary season. But I can provide some objective details about each, via their respective Web sites:
Jim Martin: Jim is a native Georgian who lists healthcare, education, and the economy at the top of his priority list. He served 18 years as a Georgia State Representative, and was later appointed by Governor Roy Barnes to serve as Commissioner of Human Resources. He is endorsed by 25 members of the Georgia State legislature (both in the State House and Senate). He is a Presbyterian Church Elder and is married with four children and two grandchildren.
Greg Hecht: Like his Democratic primary contender, Greg has served as a State House Representative; but he's also served as a State Senator. His top priorities are education, healthcare, jobs, the environment, senior citizens' rights, and Georgia transportation issues. He also has multiple law-enforcement endorsements, including from the International Brotherhood of Police Officers and the Police Benevolent Association. His bio doesn't mention family details, but does mention he is a "husband and father"; and by his Web site's pictures throughout, it looks like he has at least one child.
No doubt the Republican machine will want to send a LOT of dollars his way, after all the favors he's done for them in getting the Christian Right vote. They both sound like great guys, and worthy of Kossack support in what should be a well-funded race on Ralph's side. So show 'em some love, either in dollars or (if you live in GA) volunteer support! :)
Here are links to donation pages for Jim Martin and Greg Hecht.