Break Down of Georgia’s Speaker Shake-Up, GOP Turmoil, 2010 Governor’s Race & Holiday Political Wishes

In this holiday edition of the show, David, Tim, and guest Catherine discuss a surprisingly busy December in Georgia politics. The episode opens with the breaking news that Republicans have chosen David Ralston as their nominee for Speaker after Glenn Richardson’s abrupt resignation. The hosts highlight how quickly Richardson—once among the most powerful figures in Georgia—fell after scandalous revelations, and they contrast Georgia Republicans’ swift removal with South Carolina’s slow response to Mark Sanford.Catherine and David note that selecting Ralston, who previously opposed Richardson, was a strategic move to signal a break from corruption. Yet uncertainty remains, as Ralston is only the GOP nominee and internal divisions could spark behind-the-scenes deal-making with independents or Democrats. This leads to a broader question: can Georgia Democrats campaign on corruption? Catherine argues misuse of power, especially Richardson’s threats toward his ex-wife, should be a central issue, though David doubts voters will link the scandal to rank-and-file Republicans. The conversation shifts to the 2010 governor’s race, where Rasmussen polling shows John Oxendine leading Republicans but slipping, Karen Handel gaining opportunity, and deep voter indecision on both sides. The hosts explore how Handel’s early call for Richardson’s resignation, her gender, and her metro-Atlanta base may help her stand out in a crowded GOP field. On the Democratic side, they dismiss large Barnes–Baker gaps as unreliable this far out. The show ends with a light-hearted segment—each host’s political Christmas wish—ranging from single-payer healthcare to continued GOP chaos paired with sharper Democratic messaging.