PLATFORM OF THE GEORGIA REPUBLICAN PARTY

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee

We, the Georgia Republican Party, do affirm our belief in God, and hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men and women are created in the image of God, and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

Throughout the world, people dare to dream of freedom and opportunity. The Georgia Republican Party unequivocally defends that dream. We strive to preserve the liberties given to us by God, implemented by our Founding Fathers, embodied in the Constitution, and defended by our elected leaders and civil magistrates for ourselves and our posterity.

We recognize that the traditional family is the strength of our nation. It is our solemn duty to protect innocent life and develop responsible citizens. We understand that our economic success depends upon free-market principles. If we fail to maintain our borders, sovereignty, and national identity, we risk losing the freedom to live these ideals.

Therefore, we do hereby endorse the National Platform of the Republican Party and hold and affirm that the principles set forth below should be the basis for public policy.

1. We believe in the Constitution, written not as a weak and bendable document, but as an enduring solemn league and covenant between the sovereign States.
2. We believe that our constitutional system of limited government, separation of powers, federalism, and the rights of the people — must be preserved uncompromised for future generations.
3. We believe that personal freedom and personal morality are indivisible. When personal freedom and personal morality are separated — society is in peril; when they are united, liberty and tranquility reigns.
4. We believe in the right of all Americans to enjoy their God-given liberties and to have equal access to the law and the courts for redress when those rights are violated.
5. We believe in the right to life from conception, beginning at fertilization, to natural death.
6. We believe that the right to self-defense is a God-given right, recognized by the Second Amendment.
7. We believe that the rights of freedom of religion and freedom of association, recognized by the First Amendment, must be vigilantly defended.
8. We believe in the importance of both mothers and fathers, and that the traditional family is the foundation of civil society and must be strengthened.
9. We believe in victims’ rights to justice and support the use of restitution to victims.
10. We believe political freedom and economic freedom are indivisible. When political freedom and economic freedom are separated — both are in peril; when united, they are invincible.
11. We believe that economic freedom is the cornerstone of individual liberty and the private sector and free-market principles, are the best to stimulate economic development rather than government subsidies or programs.
12. We believe in balanced budgets and the reduction of public debt.
13. We believe that revenues collected at all levels of government should be used only for well-defined, legitimate government functions and should be carried out efficiently so that tax rates may be kept as low as possible.
14. We believe that immigration policies and laws should be written to promote the interests of the American people as a whole rather than any particular special interest group.
15. We believe that is is the right of every parent to act in their child’s best interest regarding health and education decisions.  This includes choosing the form and content of their education, whether as a public school, private school, home school, or education by other means.  The Federal Government has no right to influence the educational decisions of state or locally elected school officials by attaching conditions to the receipt of federal funding for education.
16. We believe that to be prepared for war is the most effective means of preserving peace, and that it is through example and not force that we can best share with people everywhere the blessings of peace and freedom.
17. We believe that those who have worn the uniform of our armed forces and served with honor deserve the full care and benefits they were promised. These promises constitute a solemn pledge that must be honored.
18. We believe in the self-government of nations and that our government’s first concern is the protection of the natural and constitutional rights of the American people and their sovereign right to rule themselves without deference to any foreign power or international body.
19. We believe in the right of Israel to exist as a free and sovereign nation as an example to the West of a proud people who are not ashamed to defend their people, their land, and their heritage. We believe that Jerusalem should remain Israel’s undivided capital, accessible to people of all faiths.
20. Finally, we believe that the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.

 

RESOLUTIONS

 

A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING PRESIDENT TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER TO PROTECT AMERICAN JOBS

Submitted by Brant Frost of Coweta County.

WHEREAS, President Donald J. Trump has issued an executive order limiting immigration into our country during the present health and economic crisis;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Georgia Republican Party commends and supports President Donald J. Trump’s leadership in protecting American jobs during the pandemic by restricting immigration during the present health and economic crisis.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Georgia Republican Party urges President Trump to issue a second executive order that removes the various special interest exceptions to the first executive order and shall strictly limit new immigration visas until the economy reaches its pre-pandemic unemployment rate of no greater than 3.5 percent.

 

A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF EFFECTIVE SEX EDUCATION CURRICULUM

Submitted by Noelle Kahaian of Henry County; revised by the Resolutions Committee.

WHEREAS, the Georgia Republican Party respects parents as the first educators of their children on this sensitive issue and parents should have the final authority in what a child is taught; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party hereby 1) endorses a sex education curriculum that utilizes sexual risk avoidance programs and promotes abstinence to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and 2) urges rejection of so-called “comprehensive sex education curriculum” teaching less effective methods.

 

A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE VULNERABLE CHILD PROTECTION ACT

Submitted by Noelle Kahaian of Henry County; revised by the Resolutions Committee.

WHEREAS, the transgender industry is guiding vulnerable children and their families toward dangerous and experimental treatments, including medications to interfere with the normal bodily development of puberty, cross-sex hormones to feminize or masculinize the body’s appearance, and even surgeries to remove healthy body parts and create non-functioning imitations of others;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Georgia Republican Party hereby 1) applauds Representative Ginny Ehrhart for her legislative efforts to protect minor children suffering from gender dysphoria and 2) endorses her legislation prohibiting the use of surgery and hormone injections on a minor child for the purpose of suppressing the biological sex of a minor child.

 

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING REPRESENTATIVES JOSH BONNER AND KAREN MATHIAK FOR THEIR LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS TO PROTECT MINORS FROM OBSCENE MATERIALS

Submitted by Noelle Kahainan of Henry County, revised by the Resolutions Committee.

WHEREAS, O.C.G.A. §16-12-103 makes it unlawful to furnish or disseminate to a minor any picture, photograph, drawing, sculpture, motion picture film, or similar visual representation or image of a person or portion of the human body which depicts sexually explicit nudity, sexual conduct, or sadomasochistic abuse and which is harmful to minors; and

WHEREAS, O.C.G.A. §16-12-104 contains an exemption for “any public library operated by the state or any of its political subdivisions [and] any library operated as a part of any school, college, or university;” and

WHEREAS, Representative Josh Bonner and Representative Karen Mathiak recognized a need to protect minors from obscene materials in our public schools by removing the obscenity exemption and have sponsored legislation  (HB 1041) to do so;

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party hereby commends Representative Josh Bonner and Representative Karen Mathiak for addressing this issue with this legislative action; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party is fully committed to the passing of legislation that serves to protect Georgia children in their schools.

 

A RESOLUTION ENDORSING THE RE-ELECTION OF DONALD TRUMP AND MIKE PENCE

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee from three separate resolutions submitted by David Shafer of Gwinnett County, Chuck Welch of Forsyth County and Brant Frost of Coweta County.

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have worked tirelessly to expand the grass roots of the National Republican Party through their personal involvement with Republican voters at mass rallies throughout the nation. And by working closely with the Georgia Republican Party have increased volunteer efforts across our state to ensure the success and election of Republican candidates; and

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have demonstrated true leadership for our nation during the COVID-19 pandemic by establishing and recommending health protocols to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and therefore significantly reduce the death rate predicted by health officials.   And they worked tirelessly to ensure that every state had the requested equipment, materials, drugs, testing technology, and personnel to treat patients and preserve life; and

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence imposed tariffs on China in order to begin the correction of the trade imbalance and abuse of fair trade policies; and President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have reclaimed millions of outsourced jobs and manufacturing entities from China that had been exported and outsourced by previous Presidents; thereby, providing the most successful economy in the history of the United States; and

WHEREAS; President Donald Trump revised the rules of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.) to provide for Veterans to seek medical treatment from civilian hospitals and doctors when the V.A. cannot respond adequately or in a timely manner. And President Trump revised the rules of the V.A. to hold personnel accountable for their actions and terminate those who abuse patients, and otherwise do not act in the best interests of the V.A. mandates; and

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have rebuilt our military forces after years of neglect by the previous administration; and

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have been outspoken proponents of the rights of the unborn and have strongly supported “Right to Life” candidates for Congress; and

WHEREAS; Both President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have been focused on protecting the citizens of the United States from uncontrolled illegal immigration by building a security wall in the areas most used to cross over our southern border; and

WHEREAS; President Donald Trump has supported the rule of law and the Constitution by standing strong against unlawful attempts to overturn a duly elected administration through the impeachment process.  And understanding how this activity began, implementing actions to prevent this atrocity from reoccurring under a future President;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party hereby endorses and expresses its strong support for the re-election of President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.

 

A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE RE-ELECTION OF SENATOR DAVID PERDUE

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee from two separate resolutions submitted by David Shafer of Gwinnett County and Chuck Welch of Forsyth County.

WHEREAS, Senator David Perdue is a proven business leader who has assisted fellow-outsider President Trump to build a successful economy through cutting taxes and regulations, and is now working tirelessly alongside President Trump to reopen America for business after the pandemic threat; and

WHEREAS, Senator Perdue serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, providing raises for our military personnel, along with the equipment they need;

WHEREAS, Senator Perdue continues to fight against socialized medical schemes while introducing a bill to insure citizens with pre-existing medical conditions; and

WHEREAS, Be it hereby resolved that The Georgia Republican Party does appreciate and honor Senator Perdue for these and numerous other accomplishments in the US Senate and commends him to the voters throughout the state of Georgia.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party hereby endorses and expresses its strong support for the re-election of Senator David Perdue.

 

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING BRIAN KEMP FOR HIS LEADERSHIP OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee from three separate resolutions submitted by David Shafer of Gwinnett County, Brant Frost of Coweta County and Chuck Welch of Forsyth County.

WHEREAS, 2020 will be a calendar year that we will speak of for generations; and,

WHEREAS, in the unprecedented times Governor Brian Kemp has led the State of Georgia with a respect for our constitutional liberties as well as the public safety; and,

WHEREAS, Governor Kemp has shown courageous leadership in leading the State of Georgia out of economic lockdown; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia is a role model in returning to economic prosperity during the COVID-19 pandemic,

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Georgia Republican Party hereby applauds Governor Brian Kemp for his strong and reasoned leadership of the State of Georgia in the face of an unprecedented pandemic.

 

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING REPRESENTATIVE ED SETZLER FOR HIS SPONSORSHIP OF THE LIFE ACT

Proposed by Brant Frost of Coweta County; revised by the Resolutions Committee

WHEREAS, since beginning his service in the Georgia House of Representatives in 2005, the Honorable Ed Setzler has established a record as a dedicated conservative; and

WHEREAS, Representative Seltzer’s steadfast commitment to protecting Georgia’s preborn citizens by sponsoring and fighting for the LIFE Act is worthy of the highest praise;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party hereby commends and honors State Representative Ed Setzler.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party calls on the Georgia General Assembly to extend the protections of the LIFE Act to all preborn Georgians from the point of conception when unique DNA first appears upon fertilization.

 

A RESOLUTION APPLAUDING CHAIRMAN DAVID SHAFER FOR HIS TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP OF THE GEORGIA REPUBLICAN PARTY

Proposed by Josh McKoon of Muscogee County; revised by the Resolutions Committee.

WHEREAS, in the year since he was elected as State Chairman, David Shafer has led a complete transformation of the Georgia Republican Party; and

WHEREAS, Chairman Shafer has implemented every promise he made in his campaign, restoring the Georgia Republican Party to excellent financial health and reinvigorating its grassroots infrastructure from the bottom up; and

WHEREAS, Chairman Shafer has rescued the Party from a half-decade of borderline insolvency by imposing financial discipline, increasing fundraising, retiring debt and stockpiling cash; and

WHEREAS, Chairman Shafer has been a voice for conservative principles, introducing the idea of the first-ever state platform in the modern history of the Georgia Republican Party; and

WHEREAS, Chairman Shafer has implemented programs to extend the Georgia Republican Party to every county in the state and to strengthen the local party organizations so they are ready for 2020; and

WHEREAS, Chairman Shafer has led the effort to recruit and train unprecedented numbers of volunteers, fielding an army of nearly 6,000 under the banner of Georgia Trump Victory; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Georgia Republican Party, acting by and for the State Convention, does hereby thank and applaud State Chairman David Shafer for his outstanding leadership and urge all Republicans to rally around him and his effort to elect Republicans up and down the ballot.

 

A RESOLUTION REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF ANNE WARE LEWIS

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee.

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was born in Savannah, Georgia, on February 28, 1963, and she was the daughter of Michael Edward and Elizabeth Powers Ware.

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis received her ABJ (Journalism) from the University of Georgia in 1985 and her JD, cum laude, from Georgia State University College of Law in 1989, where she was the Managing Editor of the Georgia State University Law Review; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was a highly respected attorney and member of the State Bar of Georgia and various federal courts, including the Supreme Court of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was a committed Republican for her entire adult life, volunteering her time and talents to numerous Republican Party causes and organizations; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis spent much of her legal career handling election-related litigation, including redistricting, Voting Rights Act cases, election contests, and candidate qualifying challenges; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis served for many years as counsel to the Georgia General Assembly on redistricting matters. She served as a Special Attorney General on two voting rights cases and as a Special Assistant Attorney General successfully defending Georgia’s photo ID law. Anne previously served as counsel to the intervenors in Georgia v. Ashcroft and represented a bipartisan group of 29 individual Plaintiffs in the landmark case of Larios v. Cox; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis served as General Counsel to the Georgia Republican Party for more than ten years, was a longtime member of the Georgia Republican Party Executive Committee and State Committee, and a member of the Executive Committee of the DeKalb Republican Party; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis also gave back to the legal profession with her service in a variety of capacities, including serving as the Vice-Chair and later the Co-Chair of Georgia Supreme Court’s Committee on Civil Justice; and

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis also served as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Georgia Resource Center and recently completed several terms as the Vice-Chair of the Board of the Atlanta Chapter of the Republican National Lawyers Association. Anne was President of the Atlanta Chapter of the Federalist Society. She was a member of the Georgia State University College of Law Graduate Leadership Council; Graduate Leadership Council, the Board of Governors of the National Republican Lawyers Association and the Southeast Regional Panel for the White House Fellows Program;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis recently completed two terms as the chair of the Georgia Association of Women Lawyers’ Judicial Review Committee. Anne was the General Counsel and Chief Operating Officer of Pocketbook Politics, Inc. and the Secretary of the Board of Directors of Pathways, Inc;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was a member of the State Bar of Georgia’s Indigent Defense Committee and the Post-Conviction Relief Committee;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis had a lifelong commitment to her Catholic faith and her Parish of St. Thomas More, serving as Vice President and President of the St. Thomas More Catholic School Parent Teacher Organization and as President of the St. Thomas More Catholic School Board of Education;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis had her expertise in the area of election law formally recognized when then Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp named Anne to the Elections Advisory Council, which reviewed Georgia’s election laws and made recommendations for changes in the Georgia election process, many of which were adopted by the General Assembly in its 2012 legislative session;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was recognized in many ways for her extraordinary contribution to the legal profession and the wider world including as a fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, when Law & Politics and Atlanta Magazine have selected Anne for inclusion on its lists of Georgia Super Lawyers, as one of the fifty top women attorneys in Georgia, and as one of the top 100 lawyers in Georgia.  Additionally, Anne received the Justice Robert Benham Award for Community Service from State Bar of Georgia. Law and Politics Magazine named Anne one of the ten most influential Georgia Republicans. In 2009, Georgia Trend added Anne to its list of Legal Elite, and in 2007, Atlanta Women Magazine recognized Anne as one of 20 Legal Eagles in Georgia;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis continued to work and contribute to her church, to her legal work, to this Republican Party, and to her dear family while suffering from cancer for the last several years;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis was an extraordinary person, friend, wife, and mother who lived a life that is an example to each and every one of us;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis gave service to the Georgia Republican Party that can never be fully compensated or recognized;

WHEREAS, Anne Ware Lewis, 56, of Tucker, Georgia, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2019.

WHEREAS, in addition to her parents, Anne is survived by her husband, Bradley J. Lewis; sons, Kevin Bradley Lewis and Kyle Patrick Lewis; brother, Michael Ware; sisters, Mary Jacobs and Megan Coomer; now

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Georgia Republican Party hereby formally recognizes the lifelong service of Anne Ware Lewis to her family, her community, her church, and this Republican Party.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Georgia Republican Party hereby establishes the Anne Ware Lewis Award for Exemplary Service to recognize those who follow Anne in giving of themselves in extraordinary ways to help our state and country.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to Anne’s parents, her husband and sons, and her brother and sisters.

 

A RESOLUTION REMEMBERING AND HONORING OUR REPUBLICAN FAMILY WHO HAVE SLIPPED THE SURLY BONDS OF EARTH AND REST IN THE LOVING ARMS OF GOD

Proposed by the Resolutions Committee

WHEREAS, we enjoy Republican majorities at both the Local and State level, knowing such a majority would not exist without hard work, sweat and toil, building on defeats and celebrating victories.

WHEREAS, the Republican Party of Georgia wishes to honor our brothers and sisters that helped forge these Republican majorities into reality, and

WHEREAS, we, the Republican Party of Georgia, know that we are standing on the shoulders of pioneers, we acknowledge those who have been called home and await a joyous reunion with us all.

WHEREAS, John and Wilda Apostol, his wife of 50 years, moved to Evans during the Bush reelection campaign of 2004 to be near their two children and four grandchildren, volunteering to manage and operate the Columbia County Republican Party (CCRP) campaign headquarters and continuing to do so during all major election cycles, where he was the most consistent and prominent Republican point of contact for Republican voters in Columbia County; and

WHEREAS, Ralene “Babe” Atkins-Byrne of Cobb County was a dedicated worker and volunteer for the Cobb County Republican Party and the Cobb County Republican Women’s Club where she served for years as the Membership Chair for the Cobb Republican Women and Club President. She was a dedicated supporter of her husband, Bill Byrne, who served several terms as Chairman of the Cobb County Commission before he stepped down to run for Governor.

WHEREAS, Cynthia (Cindy) Bounds chaired the Wilkes County Republican party for many years, working tirelessly to make sure that the people of Wilkes County were represented at District and State Conventions. A compassionate woman, Cindy often used her own resources to fund local GOP events and is greatly missed by Republicans in Wilkes County.

WHEREAS, Scott Chadwick of Cobb County was an active member of the Cobb County Republican Party, holding many leadership roles for nearly three decades, serving also as a County Commissioner, and in civic and community organizations like the Marietta Kiwanis Club.

WHEREAS, Ruth Cole of Spalding County worked hard with the Spalding County GOP and the Spalding County Republican Women. From campaigning for candidates to helping with fundraisers she could be found at every event. Her love of the Republican Party was evident throughout her 92 years of living.

WHEREAS, Michael “Mac” Collins served on the Butts Count Commission from 1977-1980 as a Democrat but switched parties and became the first Chairman of the Butts County Republican Party in 1981. Elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1988, he was one of only 11 Republicans serving in the statehouse. He was then elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1993 and served until 2005, representing Georgia’s 8th Congressional District where he earned a lifetime score of 95.73 from the American Conservative Union and a lifetime score of 95% from NumbersUSA. This pioneering leader of the Republican Party in Georgia is greatly missed!

WHEREAS, Kathryn Ewing, of Jackson County, was a tireless worker for the GOP, her great personality made her a superstar in the party.

WHEREAS, Margaret “Maggie” Holliman of Fulton County was elected President of the Georgia Federation of Republican Women in 1971 and served two full terms until 1975 and continued to serve on the Board of Directors in various positions. In 1976 and 1980, Margaret Holliman served as the Georgia Co-Chairman of the Reagan for President Committee. Margaret’s strong belief of standing for principles made her a vital part of building the Georgia Federation of Republican Women and the Republican Party in Georgia.

WHEREAS, Denton Eugene “Gene” Holton, Jr. of Coffee County was a life-long Republican who tirelessly worked to make the Republican Party strong in Coffee County. He retired from the U. S. Army as MSG and served during the Vietnam Conflict.

WHEREAS, Larry Hutcheson was a strong advocate for the Republican Party. He served as the Haralson County Party Chairman for 12 years, on the State Republican Committee for 25 years, and dutifully served as Chief of Staff and Senate Aide to Senator Bill Heath for 9 years. Because of his outstanding service, he was the worthy recipient of the district GOP Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

WHEREAS, Judy Johnson of Jackson County was a distinguished Republican activist who served in countless posts including service on the State Committee of the Georgia Republican Party.

WHEREAS, Tim Lee of Cobb County was a faithful supporter of the Cobb County Republican Party as a Republican elected official serving as the Post 3 Commissioner before being elected Chairman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners. Tim set a model for other elected officials to be actively engaged in the local Republican Party.

WHEREAS, George Arthur Lohr of Morgan County was one of the first members of the Morgan County Republican Party. In 1986, his daughter Pamela Lohr Hendrix worked as a summer intern at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C. with Jack Kemp’s daughter Judith Kemp. Pam returned to Georgia and started the Morgan County GOP with her uncle, Ed Tyson with George and Laura Lohr being among the first members. George Lohr remained a faithful member of the Morgan County Republican Party until his death on January 10, 2020, at age 91.

WHEREAS, Tish Parker was one of the pioneers of the Ware County Republican Party who helped to support and grow the party. She served as a delegate for many district and state conventions. Tish, along with her husband Judge Tom Parker, were faithful to serve as volunteers at the Republican booth at the annual Okefenokee Fair. Tish and Tom also volunteered many hours at the Republican Party election headquarters. She was committed to helping Republican candidates get elected to office.

WHEREAS, Sandy Straley actively participated in the work of the Ware Republican Party by attending county, district, and state conventions and by supporting many Republican candidates. Sandy would select her Republican candidate(s) and work tirelessly with them in their campaigns.

WHEREAS, Ralph Sutton, of Wilcox County,  was a longtime Republican who served his community and party well for many years. He served as Mayor of the City of Rochelle from January 1, 1972, until April 2, 2008.

WHEREAS, Richard F. Toppins of Rockdale County was a strong supporter of the Rockdale GOP and the Henry County GOP for many years and was a wonderful grassroots activist who is dearly missed.

WHEREAS, Donald Vice of Cobb County was campaign chairman for Congressman Larry McDonald in the 10th District and worked tirelessly for the GOP and liberty for many years thereafter.

WHEREAS,  Marilyn Watts, of Fayette County,  served with distinction in many roles at all levels of the Republican Party and was a pioneer in the movement to make Georgia a two-party state. Marilyn rendered distinguished service to the citizens of Fayette County as a member of the Fayette County Board of Elections for many years. A friend to many in the GOP, she is greatly missed.

WHEREAS, Connie Whitney of Lamar County was a disabled veteran who was a hard-working loyal Ted Cruz supporter before she became a staunch supporter for President Trump. She served as a Third District and State delegate and as Vice President and program chairman for the Lamar County Republicans. She was a true patriot and a Christian who valued Republican principles.

WHEREAS, Raymond Wilson was a faithful attendee to all party and political meetings and events in and around the 10th District and was a voice of reason and wisdom during divisive times.

WHEREAS, Harlan B. Groover of Clayton County served our Country in the U.S. Army and retired as a Sgt. Major with 26 years of honorable service. Harlan served as Chairman of the Clayton County Republican Party and was very active in campaign activities and helping get Republican Candidates elected. Harlan was a man of character and dedication who loved his family and country.

WHEREAS, Judy Harrell of Forsyth County was a quiet soft-spoken woman who projected a calming effect during heated Republican activities. Never one to shy away she let others know her thoughts when needed while maintaining a true grassroots leadership philosophy. Judy served the party in numerous roles over the years from Precinct Chair to County Officer to most importantly the spouse of a public servant. Judy was one of the few that understood all aspects of the party and how we had to work together to ensure success. The void her loss brings will be felt for years to come.

WHEREAS, Barbara Hickey of Cobb County served the Republican Party as a candidate and as an avid grassroots volunteer and supporter of the Party at the local, county and state, as House District Chair, Delegate to numerous county, district, and state conventions, and the 2016 Republican National Convention. Barbara has served as President of the Georgia Federation of Republic Women, 2015-17, and Cobb County Republican Women’s Club 2010 and 2014.

WHEREAS, Emma Hinesley of Coweta County was an active volunteer throughout her life, and was dedicated to making the lives of others and her community better. Emma served as President of the Coweta County Republican Women and President of the Georgia Federation of Republican Women from 1998 to 2001. Emma was known as the “Godmother of the Georgia Republican Party” helping to organize and run many state conventions, serving many times as a delegate to the Georgia Republican Party Convention and the Republican National Convention.

WHEREAS, John Lewis, a Southern gentleman remembered for his seersucker suits, chaired the Jefferson County GOP for many years and served as a delegate to County, District, State, and National Conventions. An important member of the 10th District, including serving on its Executive Committee for many years, John championed and lived out conservative principles as a leader in his community.

WHEREAS, George Lohr, one of the founding members, along with his wife, Laura, of the Morgan County Republican Party, was active throughout the years both in attendance and in contributions. George and Laura helped to grow the party from very few members to the nearly 150 active members we have today. George always enjoyed spending time with his fellow Republicans and he will truly be missed.

WHEREAS, Oscar Poole of Gilmer County was a champion for the Republican party and was known statewide as “the man in the yellow suit”. It was said that if you were a candidate running for state or federal office in Georgia, you put a stop at Poole’s BBQ in Ellijay on your list. He was in his famous yellow suit at many GOP State conventions, where he was a delegate, and he was a National Delegate in 2012. His BBQ was the site of many Republican party events, for candidates as well as rallies. The “Colonel” was a longtime supporter who was known by many, and a friend to all.

WHEREAS, Bob and Brenda Rice were one of several who founded the Morgan County Republican Party. Before they started their work, there were only eight registered Republicans in Morgan County and no formal or informal meetings. Throughout decades of tireless work, Bob and Brenda helped to create an organization so powerful that nearly every elected position that could be filled by a Republican was filled by a Republican. They’ve hosted sitting Governors, Senators, and several Congressmen in their many meetings. Brenda will be sorely missed!

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, let us the State Committee of the Georgia Republican Party on this 18th day of June 2020 take a moment to honor those who have passed from this mortal plane, but remain forever in our heart; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this resolution shall be posted for a minimum of five years on the GAGOP website in a readily accessible location as a downloadable document.