Georgia Democrats fell short in their bid last week to take control of the Georgia House of Representatives, gaining only two net seats. They also lost their Minority Leader — Bob Trammell (D-Luthersville) — who was defeated by Republican challenger David Jenkins in what some are saying is the “most expensive state House race in Georgia history. Wednesday, Democrats gathered to elect a new minority leader: choosing former caucus Chairman James Beverly of Macon.
Rep. James Beverly
Beverly, who was elected to his sixth term in the November 3 General Election, defeated Rep. William Boddie (D-East Point) for the party’s top seat in the House. Beverly had served as a minority caucus chair for the last two years. Rep. Billy Mitchell (D-Stone Mountain) will take over as the caucus Chairman.
Democrats also elected Rep. David Wilkerson (D-Powder Springs) to serve as minority whip. Rep. Debra Bazemore (D-South Fulton) will work with Wilkerson as chief deputy whip. Rep. Erica Thomas (D-Austell) will work with Mitchell as caucus vice chair. Rep. Mary Robichaux (D-Roswell) will serve as caucus treasurer, and Rep. Park Cannon (D-Atlanta) as secretary.
InsiderAdvantage made several attempts to reach Beverly through calls and email, but none were returned. He apparently told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he has been preparing for redistricting by working with the National Democratic Redistricting Committee to find ways to create fair maps for Democrats across the state to protect members and expand their base.
House Democrats needed 16 seats to gain control of the House from Republicans who have held control of the House since 2005.
On Monday, House Republicans chose David Ralston to return as speaker of the Georgia House for another two years. Ralston has served as Speaker of the House for 10 years.
Senate Republicans and Democrats have not met to choose their leaders for the upcoming year.
