Steve Deacon on Virginia’s Governor’s Race, Plus Georgia Politics and Nathan Deal’s Gubernatorial Bid

 This May 3rd episode marks the show’s third anniversary and features returning panelist Catherine, contributor Tim, and guest Steve Deacon, a Virginia politics expert. The discussion opens with Tim’s report from a Walker County Democratic Party barbecue fundraiser in northwest Georgia, highlighting renewed local organizing, appearances by Democratic figures including Gail Buckner and Dr. Jeff Scott, and a lighthearted crowd favorite: “Swifty the Donkey.” The event is framed as a sign that Democrats are rebuilding infrastructure in traditionally Republican north Georgia.The conversation then turns to major Georgia political news: Congressman Nathan Deal’s decision to run for governor. Catherine and Tim express surprise, given Deal’s historically low-profile ambition, but agree he could be formidable due to his age, timing, fundraising ability, and strong base in the heavily Republican 9th Congressional District. The panel analyzes how Deal’s entry could disrupt rivals like Karen Handel and John Oxendine, while also triggering a crowded and chaotic race to replace him in the 9th District. Potential Republican contenders, the east–west geographic split, redistricting implications, and the near-impossibility of a Democratic win in the district are all discussed.The show then shifts to Virginia, with Steve Deacon offering an in-depth analysis of the Democratic gubernatorial primary between Creigh Deeds, Brian Moran, and Terry McAuliffe. Deacon explains McAuliffe’s polling surge as money-driven, noting Virginia’s unlimited fundraising rules and the “soft” nature of early polls. Key issues include energy policy, transportation, regional voting blocs, and Virginia’s unusual one-term limit for governors. Deacon concludes that while McAuliffe’s money gives him an edge, voter sentiment remains fluid heading into the primary.