Georgia NOW News for Tuesday April 21, 2026

A major leadership shakeup could be coming to the nation’s top public health agency. President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, putting a veteran military physician and former deputy surgeon general in line to guide the CDC through its next chapter.  Plus, election officials across Georgia are bracing for a major shift in how votes are cast and counted. With a July 1 deadline looming, counties are being told to prepare for hand-marked paper ballots after a 2024 law bans the use of QR codes.  We also cover new economic development in South Georgia and highlight the return of the Georgia Legal Food Frenzy, which has delivered millions of meals to food banks over the past 15 years. And, a closer look at the growing drought impacting South Georgia farmers, driving up irrigation costs and raising concerns about crop survival. Finally, businesses may soon see financial relief as they begin applying for refunds on tariffs struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. 🎧 Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at georgianow.com — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Georgia NOW News wherever you get your podcasts. #GeorgiaNews #PublicHealth #Elections #CDC #Farming #Economy