Political Breakfast from WABE

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, Georgia Republicans are hyping up for a MAGA-takeover in D.C., a look at what happens to Trump's criminal charges and leadership changes hands in the state legislature.

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The General election is over and the dust has settled.

Georgia Democrats are left wondering: What happened?  

As they look inward and search for clarity, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam take a hard look at Democratic voter turnout in Georgia.

What does the November 5th voter turnout mean for state Democrats moving forward?

Plus, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis soared to re-election. But it seems, her elections interference case against President-elect Donald Trump is fading from the spotlight.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team sorts through new developments in Georgia after the November 5th election.

There are now calls for the chair of the state Democratic Party to step down after sweeping losses in the House. 

U.S. Representative Nikema Williams insists she can handle the job even while running for reelection.

But, a major push for change is reportedly coming from U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff. 

Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson both weigh-in.

Plus, they talk about how president elect is tapping members of Georgia's GOP for jobs in Washington. Former U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler is one of them.

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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 ballot races and three statewide ballot measures dealing with taxes.

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Political Breakfast goes live with Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam just hours after the Associated Press called a presidential victory for Donald Trump.

Analysts call the victory an extraordinary political comeback for Trump, a convicted felon who still stands accused of election interference in Georgia back in 2020 and for sparking the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Despite all of this, Brian and Tharon analyze how Trump recaptured Georgia handily and flipped other battleground states.

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Heading into November 5th Election Day, Georgia is already on-record with over 4 million voters casting early ballots in a highly contested presidential race.

However, that's not the only important contest on the ballot in Georgia. There are city, state and county offices at stake too.

Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam sort through some of the other prolific races that are drawing voters to the polls.

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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 election in Georgia and we hear from some local voters.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, we're roughly a week away from Election Day, and Georgians are early-voting in record numbers according to the Secretary of State's office. 

Polls still indicate a tight race between Vice President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

The team wanted to engage with WABE listeners and voters in-person ahead of election day.

Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson Republican strategist Brian Robinson joined me in front of a WABE studio audience and addressed their questions. 

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, Host Lisa Rayam asks Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson to share thoughts on the 11th hour of presidential campaigning in Georgia. A small swath of undecideds are at stake. Both flesh out their respective party's strategies to get those still "up in the air" to the polls.

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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.

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On this episode of Political Breakfast, we talk about Campaign ads. The GOP ads on transgender rights seem to be dominating the airwaves leading up to the November 5th election.  While the the Democratic Party continues to focus on reproductive rights.....how is all of this factoring into a very tight race in Georgia? The Political Breakfast team talks about how the strategy plays out as Georgians head to the polls. Executive Director of the Atlanta Civic Circle Saba Long is in for Tharon Johnson this week and joins Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Host Lisa Rayam.

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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 Republican-majority, which has been praised by former President Donald Trump, and brought relief to election officials worried about the last-minute changes.

And in Sumter County, 100 year-old former President Jimmy Carter has voted by mail for Vice President Kamala Harris.

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Early voting is underway in Georgia and former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are doing 11th-hour stumping here. Are their strategies turning-out voters and packing the polls? 

Trump is hitting the Peach State a little more aggressively in these next three weeks ahead of Election Day on November 5th. 

At the time of this Political Breakfast taping, Trump has three Georgia events penciled-in on his calendar: including two rallies in Duluth, and a pre-taped Fox town hall on women's issues, with an all-female audience. 

Harris is set to come to Atlanta this weekend.

Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam discuss, are these strategies impacting voters' enthusiasm and turnout? Plus, the gang gives and update on voter demographics, and what swaths are still up for grabs in Georgia. 

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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 Canton.

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Donald Trump is coming to a rally at Gas South Arena in Duluth on October 23rd, roughly 25 miles north of Atlanta. But opponent Vice President Kamala Harris already challenged the former president to another CNN debate that same night, taking place just miles away in Atlanta. 

Trump has argued it's “too late” to have another presidential debate, because Americans have already started casting their ballots ahead of the November election.

Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discussed how this strategy appears to Georgia voters.

Plus, what October, eleventh-hour campaign stumping surprises do both candidates have in store?

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Both Republicans and Democrats are crossing political lines and banding together to help those devastated by Hurricane Helene. 

That's as another powerful Hurricane Milton already barrels towards the Florida coast, less than two weeks after Helene. Governor Brian Kemp and Donald Trump made an appearance together last week outside Augusta. 

Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discuss their first appearance together in years. That comes soon after Trump antagonized Kemp during his latest presidential rallies in Georgia.

How far will the visual carry the former president in the Peach state?

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On this week's Political Breakfast, we discuss President Joe Biden traveling to Georgia Thursday to tour areas impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Vice President Kamala Harris was in Augusta Wednesday to survey damage from the storm and former President Donald Trump made a stop in Valdosta earlier this week. 

Thousands across the southeast are unaccounted for, and remain without power and water. 

Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson wondered where were President Biden and Kamala Harris immediately in wake of Helene? Is the Biden administration doing enough?

Plus, post-debate analysis between Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and GOP opponent and Trump's running mate, JD Vance.

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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 Georgia's restrictive abortion law.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, both presidential candidates Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are being criticized by their response to Hurricane Helene. 

Harris and President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations for southeastern states including Georgia. But Republicans claim Harris should've cut her West Coast stumping schedule earlier and flown immediately back to Washington D.C., got on a plane and came to the southeast.

Meanwhile, Trump visited Valdosta in wake of Helene. But Democrats are circulating a clip of Trump from a rally only days prior that critics say showed a lack of empathy. 

Republican strategist Brian Robinson, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam discuss if the candidates handled this natural disaster appropriately, as the death toll rises. 

Plus, Trump tossed out chicken tenders at the Georgia vs. Alabama game Saturday.

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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 rules and what else could happen between now and election day.

Plus, Former President Donald Trump rallies in Savannah, two presidential candidates are disqualified from Georgia's ballot and a conversation about American politics with German journalist Laura Goudkamp, who has been working at WABE as part of the Burns Fellowship.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, we start with former president Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance stumping in Georgia this week. The pair are traveling separately to cover more ground. 

Plus, more political theater from Georgia's GOP. 

Text messages surface that were sent by Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. The texts from Jones, a Trump ally, show he had no problem criticizing fellow state Republicans, including Gov. Brian Kemp. 

Those were sent in the weeks after the 2020 election as Jones tried to help Trump overturn his defeat to President Joe Biden. 

The texts could have been worse, says Republican strategist Brian Robinson. 

Brian, the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and host Lisa Rayam break down internal divisions, and what this means for Jones' political future in the state? 

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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 policies being proposed by presidential candidates and what the state of Georgia is and isn’t doing to address the issue.

Plus, a conversation about a new state law dealing with mass voter challenges and how it could affect voters experiencing homelessness.

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On the latest edition of Political Breakfast, we hone-in on the role of women voters in Georgia, and the issues that will sway them.

A recent Gallup analysis found that women aged 18 to 29 are more liberal than young women in the past on specific issues, particularly abortion and the environment. 

All this as Vice President Kamala Harris has recently doubled-down on GOP candidate Donald Trump's running mate, JD Vance, and his past comments about how the Democratic party is being controlled by so-called 'childless cat ladies.'

Republican strategist Brian Robinson, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam discuss if both parties are focusing enough on their messaging to this large voting swath.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team talks about the second assassination attempt on the life of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.

What is this saying about the overall political climate?  

Republican strategist Brian Robinson, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam reminisce on a tumultuous time during the 1960s.

Plus both applaud what Georgia state legislators plan to do to tackle gun control and safety issues here in Georgia, weeks after the deadly shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder.

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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.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, the gang is live soon after the first high-stakes presidential debate between Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.

We know that debates don't necessarily win elections. But many surveys of voters nationwide, including undecided swing voters, suggest that Harris won the debate. 

Still, the latest polls show Trump and Harris are still neck-and-neck in Georgia and other battleground states, with Trump having a slight edge. 

Republican strategist Brian Robinson, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam discuss.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team talks about a renewed push for gun safety after the deadly shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County.

Strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam address the role Georgia legislators are bound to play.

Plus, they ponder the question: Is a gun buyback program a viable solution? This after Georgia U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock was pressed about the topic on national television.

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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.

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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."

Plus, the Georgia State Election Board is facing growing scrutiny over new rules that could result in local election board members refusing to certify election results and an update on the status of third party and independent presidential candidates appearing on the state's ballots.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team discusses how influential Georgia Republicans are still conflicted when it comes to supporting former president Donald Trump. 

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp's tense relationship with Donald Trump appears to be fading. He's now attending a fundraiser for Trump in Atlanta.  

How can this be a win/win for both?

Plus former GOP Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan is now endorsing Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He's now calling on more Republicans to join him.

Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson tell host Lisa Rayam how all this will affect Duncan's and Kemp's future in Georgia politics. 

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In this edition of Political Breakfast, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson's take of the Democratic National Convention. He was there in Chicago and spent time on the convention floor.

Plus Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Tharon both share their take on the stumping that will be ramping-up in the battleground state of Georgia with host Lisa Rayam.

Hear why they say spending time in the Peach State will make or break who comes out on top in November.

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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.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, the team talks about the first night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock took center stage and ignited the crowd with a fiery speech.

Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and The Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long provide insight on Warnock's time at the podium.

Plus the moment some call bittersweet for President Joe Biden. His address and how it could have been embraced by both Democrats and Republicans alike.

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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."

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On this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, postponed a visit to Georgia due to Tropical Storm Debby.

But their Honeymoon has not waned. Will it? And if so, when?

Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long talk with host Lisa Rayam about the prospect.

Plus, how the GOP-led Georgia State Election Board has revisited ways to handle and monitor voter challenges ahead of the November Election.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp makes it clear that he supports the GOP presidential ticket, even though Donald Trump continues to attack him personally.

Why is the Governor becoming more and more vocal about his stance now?

Republican strategist Brian Robinson and the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long share their thoughts with host Lisa Rayam.

Plus, the charges and politics surrounding a Georgia state lawmaker arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

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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 members, driven by unsupported claims of election fraud, use it to delay certifying the results or to reject them outright.

Plus, a look at how former president Donald Trump has reignited his feud with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, how former Presdent Donald Trump is once again taking aim at Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.

Kemp was his target at a recent rally in Atlanta. 

Is this good or bad politics for the GOP presidential nominee?

Host Lisa Rayam asks that question of Republican strategist Brian Robinson and the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long.

What do they make of more Republicans expressing disdain for Trump?

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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.

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, more talk about the very fluid presidential race that's all-encompassing here in the battleground state of Georgia. 

Republican Strategist Brian Robinson, the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and host Lisa Rayam sort through the aftermath of Donald Trump's tense on-stage appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago. 

Did this ruin Trump's chances of winning over undecided voters in Georgia? 

Plus, what will the messaging entail at Trump's planned campaign stop in Atlanta Saturday with running mate, Ohio Senator J.D. Vance. 

In additon to all of this, Vice President Kamala Harris is set to return to Georgia next week with her pick for a running mate in tow.

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Vice President and now-presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris is coming to stump in Atlanta. 

It's Harris' first Georgia visit since becoming the likely Democratic nominee for president, and her 15th this year alone. 

The team talks about how this latest visit may serve as a wake-up call for the Georgia GOP, which has been unusually silent in recent days. 

Saba Long, executive director of the Atlanta Civic Circle, and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam on this latest edition of Political Breakfast.

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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 images.

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On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast, it continues to be a historic week in politics. 

President Joe Biden officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the November presidential race, in a first farewell speech to the nation from the Oval Office. 

Now there's reports that Harris will be back in Atlanta on Tuesday, signaling how important Georgia is this November. How has Donald Trump's attack strategy had to change overnight? 

Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and the Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long share some local perspective with host Lisa Rayam.

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On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast:

The team talks about what's next for both Democrats and Republicans now that President Joe Biden has dropped-out of the 2024 presidential race. 

Biden and top Democrats, nationally and here in Georgia, are endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the new nominee. Are enough Democrats on board with Harris?

Republican strategist Brian Robinson, Atlanta Civic Circle director Saba Long share with host Lisa Rayam their "temperature check" for Georgia -- a key battleground state in the race for the White House.

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On this week's live edition of Political Breakfast, Donald Trump accepts the GOP's official nomination to run for president this November, along with his running mate, JD Vance.

Plus, President Joe Biden has scaled-down appearances this week, and is recovering from COVID-19.

Strategists Tharon Johnson, Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam discuss all this from a Georgia lens.

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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 results in November on this week’s edition of "Plugged In: A WABE Politics Podcast."

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On a special LIVE edition of Political Breakfast this week, strategists Tharon Johnson, Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam break down Donald Trump's decision to select U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio as his running mate. 

Vance is a 39-year-old venture capitalist, Senator, and author of the famous memoir "Hillbilly Elegy." 

The team tackles how Democrats view Trump's pick for VP, and how the GOP expects Vance to resonate in Georgia -- a key battleground state. 

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson share with host Lisa Rayam their thoughts on the assassination attempt on Donald Trump's life at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. An innocent bystander was killed. Two others were wounded.

They ponder what the aftermath means for both the Trump campaign and President Biden's campaign moving forward. Did the shooting fuel the Trump campaign with the momentum needed to get over the hump in November? What's the temperature among voters in Georgia -- a key battleground state?

Plus, what tone will both sides take as the GOP navigates through its convention this week?

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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 Podcast."

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Despite President Biden refusing to budge and stay in the re-election race, there is more talk about the role Vice President Kamala Harris could and should play come November.

On this edition of Political Breakfast, host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Ben Burnett who is in for Brian Robinson, talk about the perception of Harris here in Georgia.

Plus, thousands of delegates will travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 15th for the start of the Republican National Convention. Ahead of this historic moment, what's keeping both the GOP and the Biden campaign up at night?

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On this edition of Political Breakfast, Ben Burnett of the Ben Burnett Show sits in for Brian Robinson. Ben and Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson focus on the urgent calls for President Biden to step aside and not run for re-election.

Biden on the other hand is calling on his party to move forward and unify, especially in this battleground state of Georgia.

But, is that possible where it seems Democrats are becoming more divisive? 

Tharon and Ben weigh-in with host Lisa Rayam and they factor in the upcoming Republican National Convention.  

How important is the GOP's messaging at this point?

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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.

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On this week's live Political Breakfast, host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson process a landmark Supreme Court ruling that grants former presidents broad immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. 

How will this trickle down to affect Donald Trump's current indictment and the election interference case here in Georgia? 

It's a legal victory for Trump, who touted the 6-3 ruling as a "big win for our Constitution and for democracy."

Democrats condemned it and president Joe Biden warned that the ruling meant there were “virtually no limits on what the president can do” if Trump wins the 2024 presidential election. 

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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.

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On this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, Joe Biden and Donald Trump are set to make presidential debate history tonight on CNN in Atlanta. 

Despite months of public scrutiny for both candidates and voter fatigue being part of a national conversation, most U.S. adults plan to watch tonight -- and believe the debate is crucial for both campaigns, according to a new poll from The Associated Press.

Last time the two clashed on the debate stage, the coronavirus pandemic dominated the questioning.

Now four years later, voters are focused on other key issues. Is it fair to say whoever wins the debate wins Georgia, and other battleground states? Host Lisa Rayam asks Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson. 

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On this week's Political Breakfast, the gang talks President Joe Biden and Donald Trump's eleventh-hour efforts to campaign in Georgia, just days away from their CNN presidential debate in Atlanta. 

Jen O’Malley Dillon, Biden’s 2020 campaign manager and chair of his reelection bid, said the campaign has scheduled more than 200 events across the state this week. They include news conferences, surrogate speeches and volunteer phone-banks.

Former President Donald Trump’s campaign also opened a field office here Saturday to rally Republicans. 

Host Lisa Rayam asks Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson if all this is enough, and where both candidates should be looking to sway voters. 

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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 people in Georgia, check out WABE's Beyond Pride.

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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 Biden and Trump on the Georgia ballot.

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On this week's second serving of Political Breakfast, MARTA says it’s committed to moving forward with a 230 million dollar renovation of the Five Points station in downtown Atlanta.

Mayor Andre Dickens wanted MARTA to pause the overhaul. 

The Political Breakfast team addresses the Mayor's concerns about what turned up in a recent audit.

Plus, ahead of November former Georgia Sen. Jen Jordan is advising Democrats to talk non-stop about contraception and reproductive rights.

Is campaigning on that issue a winning strategy for Democrats? 

Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam weigh-in.

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On today's Political Breakfast, all the talk about Atlanta's recent water crisis fails to wane. Residents and business owners still have lots of questions.

Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson tackle the biggest question: How could the water crisis help or hurt Mayor Andre Dickens politically?

Plus, the team addresses "debate stage etiquette." This after Georgia Congressional candidate Chuck Hand, who served prison time for taking part in the January 6th U.S. Capitol riot, decided to walk out of an Atlanta Press Club forum.

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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.

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On this week's second serving of Political Breakfast, host Lisa Rayam, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discuss a surprise upset in the Georgia primary.

In Cobb County, 27-year-old Gabriel Sanchez defeated the ncumbent State Rep. Teri Anulewicz.

Sanchez now faces Republican Diane Jackson in this fall's general election.

The gang poses the question: IF elected to the Georgia House, will Sanchez be able to govern alongside moderate Democrats and make friends across the aisle? 

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City of Atlanta residents endured a water crisis over the weekend -- the result of several water main breaks. 

Days later, the city's response is still being scrutinized even after repairs were made. Just why did it take so long to communicate what was unfolding to weary Atlantans?

On this week's Political Breakfast, Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam sort through what feels like a lifetime without water for some.

Plus, a follow-up on Donald Trump's conviction on 34 felony counts in the hush-money trial in New York. 

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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.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson go live with host Lisa Rayam after the Memorial Day holiday. 

Brian Kemp has skipped the Georgia GOP Convention twice. Now he's solidifying plans to attend the national RNC this summer in Milwaukee, and offering to help several Republicans down ballot across the country. 

Is this signaling a future presidential or U.S. Senate run?

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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.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, the team debates why it seems like there hasn't been a lot of fanfare leading up to Tuesday's primary election. Are Georgia voters, especially in metro Atlanta, missing all that's at-stake? 

Plus, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and host Lisa Rayam assess Biden's Morehouse College commencement speech. 

Plus, internal divisions and pro-Donald Trump energy persisted at the recent Georgia GOP Convention in Columbus. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp did not attend .. again. The gang also discusses how an activist who helped organize a 'Stop the Steal' rally that proceeded the Jan. 6 2021 U.S. Capitol insurrection, was just elected to the Republican National Committee.

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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.

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On this week's second episode of Political Breakfast, the team talks about Vice President Kamala Harris playing a vital role in Joe Biden's push for a second presidential term this November. 

A recent Biden/Harris campaign ad declares they're "putting the work in for Black America".

In turn, what does outreach look like on Donald Trump's side?

America's first Black VP has already come to Georgia several times this year. Recently she kicked off a swing state tour in Atlanta.

The team talks about if the Biden Administration's efforts will work, and Black voters' enthusiasm for Biden – or lack of.

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This week on Political Breakfast, we've got a full spread of politics. 

Strategists Tharon Johnson and Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam and start with the fallout in Washington, after Georgia GOP Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene tried to oust fellow GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson. 

It was quite a sting for Greene when the House swiftly turned down her effort to remove Johnson. Tired of chaos, many fellow Republicans, including Georgia representatives, took aim at Greene. She's still loved by Donald Trump, but has her star begun to fade?

Plus, former Georgia Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan endorses Joe Biden. The team discusses what that may mean for his political future.

And former Democratic U.S. Rep. John Barrow is using abortion rights to campaign in the race for a seat on Georgia's Supreme Court. Right or wrong? Brian and Tharon share their thoughts.

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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.

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From Emory University, to Columbia, to Ole Miss, where's the line between a peaceful protest and when demonstrations start to go south? 

On this week's Political Breakfast, the gang discusses the fallout of one recent protest at the University of Mississippi.

Republican Georgia U.S. Congressman Mike Collins recently re-tweeted a controversial video on X, formerly known as Twitter, that has many crying foul.

The video of a pro-Palestinian protest and a group of mostly-white, counter-protesters at Ole Miss has circulated all over social media. One was making monkey noises and gestures at a Black student.

Collins quoted the tweet, with "Ole Miss taking care of business."

Collins later came out with a statement, saying that he does not tolerate any form of discrimination, and there seems to be potentially inappropriate behavior in the video that no one should seek to glorify. 

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On this week's Political Breakfast, Nathan Wade is breaking his silence on his past romantic relationship with Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis, and the gang is back to talking about the prosecution team, and former lovers.

The former special prosecutor in the Georgia election interference case against Donald Trump is speaking out for the first time. 

Wade resigned from the case after Fulton Judge Scott McAfee ruled his past romantic relationship with Willis created a conflict of interest.

Many Republicans and Democrats believe that relationship put the Georgia election interference case against Trump and alleged co-conspirators in jeapordy.

In an interview with ABC's Linsey Davis on Good Morning America, Wade said he hated how his "personal life began to overshadow the true issues" in the case, and that workplace romances are "as American as apple pie."

Trump and others charged have appealed the ruling that allowed DA Willis to stay on the case. 

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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.

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On this week's second helping of Political Breakfast, the gang talks about how early voting is underway for Georgia's primaries and non-partisan elections on May 21st. The early voting period ends on May 17th. 

That's as elections officials and voters also face complications with lost mail and delays with the U.S. Postal Service. 

Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down some key races here in metro Atlanta.

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This week on Political Breakfast, strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson talk with host Lisa Rayam about Vice President Kamala Harris' most recent visit to Atlanta.

Hours before her arrival Monday the gang analyzed her timing, her target audience and above all, her messaging.

Harris' visit comes amid a divisive time on college campuses nationwide as demonstrators gather to protest against the Israel-Hamas war -- and Atlanta has been no different over the last week, with protests at Morehouse College, Emory University and on the University of Georgia campus in Athens. 

How will these protests reverberate in November?

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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.

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On this week's second helping of Political Breakfast, the gang discusses opening statements that began this week for former president Donald Trump's hush-money trial in New York.

The trial centers around allegations the former president falsified his company’s internal records when making alleged hush payments to porn star Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign.

Some folks in Georgia are watching this case very closely, like Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican strategist Brian Robinson.

There's always the chance it will set a precedent for Trump's election interference case here.

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Launching this Friday from the team behind "Gold Dome Scramble," "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.

"Plugged In" premieres on Friday, April 26. Episodes will publish here in the "Political Breakfast" feed, and subscribe to "Plugged In"wherever you find podcasts.

For more, visit wabe.org/pluggedin

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It's time for this week's Political Breakfast!

Georgia Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene is one of several GOP lawmakers threatening to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson, now that he's voted with Democrats to send billions in aid to Ukraine, Israel and other nations.

Greene recently filed a motion to vacate the Republican speaker.

Johnson joined with Democrats on Saturday to advance a 95 billion foreign aid package. It now heads to the Senate, which is expected to give final approval this week.

But Johnson can't afford to lose much Republican support in the House, with a slim majority. Greene pointed that out in a heated interview after the vote over the weekend, calling Johnson a "lame duck." 

Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down Greene's reaction to the vote with host Lisa Rayam. 

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On this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, the conversation continues from news earlier this week about special prosecutor Pete Skandalakis being appointed to investigate Georgia GOP Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones.

The case is over Jones' role in former president Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. 

In 2020, Burt Jones signed on as a fake elector for Donald Trump, after Joe Biden's victory in Georgia. 

Prosecutors allege this was part of a plan to overturn Trump’s loss. Jones claims he did nothing illegal.

Pete Skandalakis, executive director of the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia, appointed himself after Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis was disqualified from taking the case. 

Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson break down the politics surrounding the case with host Lisa Rayam. 

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This week on Political Breakfast, the team responds to a recent Newsweek article that has attorneys for former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows calling the Georgia election interference case "unglued."

Meadows was indicted along with former president Donald Trump and others as part of the RICO case being prosecuted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam share throughts on whether the Meadows case is in fact falling apart, or if Willis and her team are in a strategic position to prosecute.

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Georgia first lady Marty Kemp recently said she would not vote for Donald Trump in November - and she'd "write Brian Kemp's name in. He'd make a darn good president."

Trump has targeted Governor Kemp for declining to help interfere with Georgia's 2020 election result. 

But despite that animosity, Kemp hasn't lashed-out - and pledged to support the GOP's ultimate nominee. 

The Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and Republican strategist Brian Robinson discuss with host Lisa Rayam. Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson is out this week.

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On this week's first episode of Political Breakfast,

A Biden/Harris campaign ad declares they're "putting the work in for Black America."

In turn, are they forcing the Trump campaign to amplify it's putting in the work?

The Atlanta Civic Circle's Saba Long and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson share their perspectives with host Lisa Rayam.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, it's Republican strategist Brian Robinson, host Lisa Rayam and Atlanta Civic Circle director Saba Long, who's filling-in for Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson.

The crew discusses former President Donald Trump returning to Georgia for a luncheon in Atlanta on Wednesday.

Big Georgia money will flow into Trump's campaign from this luncheon. Just a photo with the former president costs 25 thousand dollars per couple.  

Among those hosting: former U.S. GOP Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue.

Both lost their 2021 runoffs to Democratic U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and are coming back as Trump allies. 

We weigh-in on the significance of this event, Trump's overall momentum in Georgia, and which voters will determine this November election.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, the dust clears and the 2024 legislative session is over under the Gold Dome. But there's still business to hash through.

The big question is, will Governor Brian Kemp sign all of the bills passed by the general assembly and sent to his desk?

Some are of more interest to Republican strategist Brian Robinson, host Lisa Rayam, and Atlanta Civic Circle Director Saba Long, who's filling-in for Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson this week.

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Lawmakers pass a flurry of bills before the last day of the legislative session, sine die, but not every big ticket item made it to the governor's desk.

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We're two days away from Sine Die, the last day of the 2024 Georgia legislative session.

It's a chaotic race to the finish where lawmakers are reviewing and voting-on hundreds of bills. 

Host Lisa Rayam is out this week. But Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson take us through a few bills they're focused on, and some insight they're getting from walking the halls of the Gold Dome. 

That includes one bill that would compensate exonerated people who lost years of their lives in prison.

Plus, this week's episode comes on the heels of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens' state of the city address. Dickens touched on the future of building light rail and connecting MARTA to the Atlanta BeltLine, building more housing and building the city's public safety training center, which police say is on-track to open by the end of this year. 

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With just a few days left in this year's legislative session, lawmakers are jamming through bills any way they can. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss the proposals they're tracking as the session starts wrapping up. Plus, a conversation with WABE'S environment reporters Emily Jones and Marisa Mecke.

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It's time for this week's second edition of Political Breakfast, where strategists Tharon Johnson, Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam address Democrats' fears about President Joe Biden's chances in Georgia. 

The Atlanta Journal Constitution published an article this week that cited several lawmakers voicing concerns, that Georgia won’t get the same focus as battleground voters in other states like Michigan and Pennsylvania.

Former Democratic U.S. Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux says Biden’s campaign is likely to focus more on the “white working class” in the Midwest than more diverse Georgia voters.

U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams says she is not worried at all, and warns that local election advocates need to do the grassroots work.

Plus, Georgia U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff is getting involved in delays and complications with the U.S. Postal Service. 

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On this week's Political Breakfast, we're still seeing calls from the right for Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis to step aside from the Georgia election Interference case - even though her former special prosecutor Nathan Wade resigned from the case on Friday.

A judge ruled one of them would have to go last week, because of a conflict of interest and their past romantic relationship.

In a letter accepting Wade's resignation, Willis complimented him for his QUOTE "professionalism and dignity."

Then over the weekend, Wade canceled a highly-anticipated live interview with NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday .. citing a family emergency. The interview would have been the first chance to hear Wade's take on the ruling. Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson, Republican Strategist Brian Robinson and host Lisa Rayam weigh-in on the latest in the election interference saga.

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A judge ruled that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis could remain on the Georgia election interference case, but only if special prosecutor Nathan Wade stepped aside.

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Georgia Republicans have passed public subsidies for private school tuition by the slimmest of margins. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss all things education with WABE education reporter Juma Sei. Plus a look at a last minute move to ban puberty blockers and efforts to expand gambling in Georgia.

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Have Donald Trump's divisive MAGA movement and Joe Biden's low approval rates driven former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan to potentially run for president? 

Duncan could be running for president in November under the third-party, bipartisan movement 'No Labels.' 

Multiple national news outlets report Duncan could be featured on the movement's so-called "unity ticket" and challenge the presumed nominees President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump. 

WABE has reached out to Duncan for a statement on this news. 

So far he has not offered a comment, but is not shutting down the reports of stirring things up. 

Host Lisa Rayam, Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson weigh-in on the potential White House bid.

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This week on Political Breakfast, Donald Trump and Joe Biden hosted two competing presidential campaign rallies in Georgia over the weekend. 

Democratic Strategist Tharon Johnson and Republican Strategist Brian Robinson join host Lisa Rayam to compare the turnout and excitement at both events – as both candidate's approval ratings aren't reflecting the same energy. 

Both Trump and Biden say the path to the White House in 2024 runs through Georgia.

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Former President Donald Trump’s last Republican challenger, Nikki Haley, has bowed out of the race ahead of Georgia’s presidential primary on Tuesday. Now the campaign is turning to the General Election, with Trump and President Joe Biden set to hold competing rallies in Georgia on Saturday. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas also discuss a busy qualifying week at the state capitol and more.

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On this special edition of Political Breakfast, Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strateigst Tharon Johnson sort through some of the bills and issues that were getting tossed around on the all-important Crossover Day under the Georgia State Capitol.

Immigration and sports betting captured their attention, but so did the overall buzz that filled the halls of the Gold Dome on this monumental day.

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Lawmakers scramble to keep their bills alive on Crossover Day. WABE politics reporters Rahul Bali and Sam Gringlas discuss some of the major bills that are still making their way through the legislature and those that didn't make the cut this session. Plus a conversation about immigration with WABE's immigration and communities reporter Emily Wu Pearson.

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On this week's Political Breakfast, we're joined by special guest, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond, who is also an author and longtime historian!

His new book is titled, 'James Oglethorpe: Father of Georgia, A founder's journey from slave trader to abolitionist.'

It's been a decades-long journey for Thurmond.

In 1996, he was part of a delegation that traveled to England to celebrate the 300th birthday of British native Oglethorpe, who founded the British colony of Georgia in 1733.

Thurmond starts by telling host Lisa Rayam and strategists Brian Robinson and Tharon Johnson that the idea for the book struck while Thurmond explored the legacy of Georgia’s founder at his grave in London.

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