The next year and a half may be a boon to those planning political events – no candidates for dogcatcher on the agenda. There will likely be candidates for major offices coming out of the woodwork to put their faces in front of as many people as possible. The Atlanta Young Republicans are usually able to lure good speakers and good crowds but Wednesday’s meeting featured a packed house to see a surrogate on behalf of a congressional candidate, a secretary of state candidate and an attorney general (who is also a candidate). With the Georgia Republican Convention a little over a month away, more candidates may start announcing in the next few weeks to try and ensure a speaking slot in Augusta.
First up was, David Belle Isle, the mayor of Alpharetta, who has thrown his hat into the ring for the secretary of state race. Belle Isle noted how it would be beneficial for the state to have a secretary of state “with a mayor’s heart.” He spoke of the growth he has successfully managed and been a part of in Alpharetta. “Mayors focus on making irresistible places,” said Belle Isle. And by the looks of things in Alpharetta, it’s been plenty irresistible. It’s now home to more than 640 tech companies and one of the metro area’s glimmering new developments, Avalon. So far, Belle Isle is the only mayor to declare his candidacy, if he remains as the only one, it will be interesting to watch this dynamic.
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