Hey, the elections aren’t over yet

In this last election, Democrats managed to defend their U.S. Senate majority, securing 50 seats — while limiting Republicans to an extremely narrow majority in the House. The Senate seat in Georgia remains a key one because a 51st senator would give Democrats an outright majority, and the caucus a measure of protection against obstruction and defection.

In the most recent election in Georgia, incumbent Sen. Raphael Warnock led Herschel Walker by about 36,000 votes but fell short of a majority, triggering a runoff election in early December, under Georgia law.

Warnock has proven himself as an effective leader, communicator and persuader. He has championed human rights and voting rights issues. Warnock worked with Republican Sen. Ted Cruz to introduce legislation for the building of Interstate 14 connecting Augusta, Macon and Columbus in Georgia to Texas; Warnock stated that the interstate would be “helpful for our military installations”; and “for the economy in this region.” The legislation was approved within the “Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act” that passed in November 2021. In spite of these accomplishments, Republicans have sought to frame the race as a national referendum on the two parties, attempting to tie Warnock to President Joe Biden and/or high inflation.

Former President Barack Obama is the only significant national Democrat to campaign in person for Warnock, seeking support from independent voters and moderate Republicans, in addition to the Democrats’ core supporters.

Warnock’s opponent is a renowned NFL player, retired from the sport in 1997. With more than 20 years since his football career, Herschel Walker continues to lack political, governmental or even social service experience. There is considerable reason to be concerned about Walker’s gaps in experience, skill and knowledge, all of which are needed to be effective in the Senate. Furthermore, Walker has expressed extreme MAGA views. There are also other areas of concern regarding aspects of his character. Even Republicans have made reference to their “low quality” candidates. Nevertheless, this Senate race remains extremely close.

Due to the vast funding from the Republican party, other national sources and so-called dark money, Warnock’s opponent has been able to capitalize on negative, divisive politics and name recognition (with former President Trump, for example).

For these reasons concerned citizens around the country should act quickly to provide funds to help Warnock. We should also ask our elected representatives to offer whatever support they can to the Warnock campaign.