For the first time in eight years, Georgians will elect a new governor in 2018.
Seven Republicans and two Democrats are seeking to replace Gov. Nathan Deal, who cannot run for a third term. Between now and primary day May 22, 11Alive.com will be bringing you a series of Q&A’s with each candidate who answers our questionnaire.
Today's interview is with former state Sen. Hunter Hill, whom you can learn more about at his campaign website.
Also, look for more extensive coverage of this race and others until Election Day, Nov. 6, as Georgia Votes 2018.
1. What is the No. 1 challenge facing the state?
Our top challenge as a state is implementing a more limited and focused government that delivers results for taxpayers. State government should be primarily concerned with funding transportation, education, and public safety. Our budget and our budgeting process should reflect those priorities.
To implement a more limited and focused government, I believe we must eliminate the state income tax so hardworking, innovative Georgians can keep more money in their pockets.
Providing a quality education to every Georgian is key to the future of our state. Introducing greater competition and free market principles into K-12 education will elevate all boats and allow teachers and principals to deliver results for students and families. Let’s empower parents with resources to choose how and where their child is educated, and remove burdensome rules and regulations from our teachers and administrators.
Whether the issue is education, taxes, or government spending, a more limited and focused state government allows Georgians to succeed. My leadership experience during three combat tours overseas, as a leader in business, and fighting for our conservative values in the state senate, has prepared me to tackle these tough issues and deliver results for Georgians.
2. If elected, how would you prioritize Atlanta’s needs compared to other cities and counties in Georgia?
As governor, my economic development plan benefits all of Georgia - not just one region over another. I plan to eliminate the state income tax, invest in transportation without raising taxes, and introduce greater choices and options for parents and students in K-12 education. This will allow Georgians to reach their full potential without the heavy hand of government picking winners and losers.
3. You’ve made transportation investment one of your platforms. But the legislature just passed a $100 million transit bill. Does this make the issue of transportation spending less of a talking point in your campaign?
Georgia is still behind many states we compete directly with for economic development in regards to transportation funding. I believe we can do the hard work in the budgeting process to prioritize transportation and infrastructure and do so without raising taxes.
All options should be on the table - including finishing the Savannah port project, a truck transit route around Atlanta, and using emerging technologies to combat traffic - in order for Georgia to reach its full potential.
