Atlanta is the cradle of Civil Rights. It is difficult to see Georgia at the forefront of attacks on the fundamental right to vote. In the wake of the 2020 election and the spread of the “Big Lie”, our nation has seen an unprecedented series of attacks on the fundamental right to vote.

Our vote is our voice — and it is under assault. According to the Brennan Center for Justice “legislators in at least 27 states have introduced, pre-filed, or carried over 250 bills with restrictive provisions.” Lawmakers tried to deny food and water to voters standing in long lines for hours. In the land of Southern hospitality, legislators have refused to allow people with young children to move to the front of voting lines, forcing families to stand in hours-long lines, unable to leave for fear of losing their place and, possibly, being late for work or critical appointments.

I will support passage of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. At the same time, I know there is a need for more action. It is time to explore the Constitutionally granted power of the United States Congress to at “any time by Law make or alter such Regulations, except as to the Places of choosing Senators.” It is time to stop being afraid of the American people. It is time to listen.