Editor’s Note: Early voting in Georgia’s August 11 runoff starts July 20. Thomas “Bo” Hatchett is running against Stacy Hall for the GOP nomination in the District 50 State Senate runoff. Following the June 9 primary, Now Habersham sent a list of questions to the candidates regarding their campaigns and viewpoints. Here’s how Bo Hatchett responded:
What is your reaction to the outcome of the June 9 GOP primary vote?
I am truly humbled with the outcome of the June 9th primary and I am incredibly grateful for each and every person who voted for me. An eight-county race during a pandemic presented many challenges, but it was a pleasure navigating these uncharted waters with a passionate group of supporters. I also want to take a moment to say thank you to Andy Garrison, Tricia Hise, Lee Moore, and Dan Gasaway for working their tails off and running strong campaigns.
What do you think it was about you as a candidate or your campaign in general that appealed to voters?
During this process, I have had the opportunity to share meals, shake hands, and spend time with so many different people. What I learned is the voters of District 50 want someone who will work as hard as they do and represent them with integrity.
I believe the campaign’s message of protecting our Northeast Georgia values resonated with voters.
What was the most challenging part of the primary campaign?
Navigating this election during a pandemic was definitely a challenge. We had to get creative with the way we reached out to voters and spread our positive message. I am the type of candidate who enjoys meeting voters face-to-face and I am definitely looking forward to hitting the pavement this summer.
How do you intend to approach your runoff campaign?
The same way we approached the primary election: work hard, stay positive, and EARN it every day.
Campaigning is full-time work in and of itself and demands a lot, not just from the candidate but from their families as well. How are your families coping with life in this political arena?
My wife Ashley is a rockstar and my biggest supporter. During the campaign, we were blessed by the birth of our second daughter, Hazel. It’s no secret that campaigns, like newborn babies, are a lot of work and can be stressful, but I am fortunate to have a partner who believes as much as I do that our Northeast Georgia values are worth protecting. She has been there every step of the way filling the role of wife, mother, and campaign volunteer and I couldn’t be more grateful.
If elected, how will you juggle the demands of representing your district with your personal and professional lives?
Though representing our district in the State Senate is technically a part-time job, I know that if done correctly it will be very demanding. Fortunately, I have an incredible support system both in my professional and personal life which I know without a doubt will allow me to give this position the time and effort it deserves.
What do you view as the top three most pressing issues facing the 50th District and how do you intend to address those issues if elected?
I believe the top issues facing our district are getting Georgians back to work, supporting our agricultural industry, our teachers, and ensuring we protect our Northeast Georgia values. In Atlanta, I will work with Governor Kemp to restart our economy, always advocate in the best interest of our farmers, and stand firm on conservative principles.
What do you view as the top three most pressing issues facing Georgia and how do you intend to address those issues if elected?
I think this pandemic has created some unique challenges for Georgia. Our next State Senator will have to be prepared to help restart our economy, protect our agricultural industry, and balance our budget. The Georgia Constitution requires we balance our budget, which means we will have tough decisions to make, BUT I believe it can and must be done without raising taxes.
Which social issues facing Georgians, and specifically District 50 constituents, are you most concerned about, and how will you address those issues if elected?
I think our Northeast Georgia values are constantly under attack by the liberal left and must be vigilantly guarded. As State Senator, I will always protect our innocent unborn and defend the Second Amendment. I am proud to be certified Pro-Life by Georgia Life Alliance and to have an AQ with the NRA, which is the highest available rank for a non-politician.
What are your views on racism and police brutality and, if elected, how will you address those issues?
We must both acknowledge and aggressively denounce racism when we see it. As Christians and Americans, we must stand firm on the values that make our country great, including the belief that ALL men are created equal. Our officers of the law must be held to the highest moral standards. At the same time, we must acknowledge that there are thousands of good officers across our country who just want to serve their communities with integrity and go home to their families. These movements that call to defund police departments are absolutely ludicrous and must be stopped.
Do you support calls to repeal Georgia’s longstanding citizens’ arrest law? If so, why? If not, why not?
I do believe we should re-evaluate, debate, and potentially repeal Georgia’s citizens’ arrest law. I would consult local law enforcement and district constituents on this issue before voting on any changes in the law
Should Americans look to our elected leaders as a moral compass on social issues? Why or why not?
Our elected officials should be held to the highest standards of integrity when it comes to serving their constituents, but at the end of the day, they are still human. As a Christian, I believe Christ alone is the moral compass we should look to as our guide.
Why do you want to be the 50th District State Senator?
I am running for State Senate because I am passionate about protecting our Northeast Georgia values and serving our community. I want our district to be a place where our kids want to raise their kids. In Atlanta, I will work hard every day to be a public servant the people of our district can depend on, and a person my daughters can be proud to call “Dad.”
Why are you the best person for the job?
I’m a Christian, a husband, a father, a small business owner, and a homegrown Republican who loves this district and the people who live here. I’ve had the honor of serving in the Governor’s office where I worked with his Executive Counsel researching and drafting legislation. I have helped nonprofits and local businesses navigate the legislative process to reduce government regulations. I’m not a politician, but this experience means I’ll be an effective State Senator on day one.
In Atlanta, you can trust that I will stand up for our Northeast Georgia values. This means supporting our President’s agenda on the state level, reopening our economy, advocating for our farmers, protecting life, and defending our Second Amendment.
Candidate contact information
Web: www.hatchettforgeorgia.com
FB: HatchettforGeorgia
Cell: (706) 499-6941
Email: [email protected]
