Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! This week on The Georgia Politics Podcast, we trace the remarkable rise of Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter from the Gold Dome to the White House.

How did a little-known, one-term governor from Plains transform himself into a viable presidential contender in the wake of Watergate? We examine Carter's outsider message, his emphasis on honesty and reform, and the disciplined, state-by-state strategy that stunned the political establishment in 1976.

We break down Carter's appeal to Southern and evangelical voters, and the broader national mood that made his campaign possible.

From rural Georgia to Washington, this episode looks at the political skill, timing and strategy behind one of the most improbable presidential ascents in modern American history.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! We are taking a deep dive into the life and legacy of Jesse Jackson — and the lasting political impact he leaves behind.

From his early days working alongside Martin Luther King Jr. to his groundbreaking presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, Jackson reshaped the modern Democratic coalition and expanded the national political conversation. The team explores how his Rainbow Coalition strategy changed the way candidates build multiracial, cross-class alliances — and how his campaigns paved the way for future leaders, including Barack Obama.

Was Jackson ahead of his time? How did his presidential bids alter the trajectory of the Democratic Party? And what lessons do today's political movements — on both the left and right — still draw from his organizing model?

It's a candid discussion about ambition, activism, controversy and the enduring political architecture of one of America's most consequential public figures.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! This week, we dive into the seismic shake-up underway in the race for Georgia governor. Billionaire health care executive Rick Jackson has thrown his hat into the GOP primary, stunning political observers with a well-funded outsider bid that's rattling the established field of candidates. We break down what Jackson's entry means for the dynamics of the contest — from his policy pledges to his promise to invest tens of millions of dollars into the campaign and how that's already altering the narrative.

We'll also unpack the most recent financial disclosure reports that reveal the cash on hand across the top contenders and how internal money battles are shaping the fight for nomination for both parties.

Meanwhile, we examine the latest Republican National Committee activity, including RNC letters that could influence their support strategy for incumbent Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, and what that might mean for his standing as a perceived establishment favorite.

Finally, we look at the competing tax cut plans in the Georgia Legislature — from sweeping proposals to slash or even eliminate personal income taxes to contrasting visions for property tax relief — and how these fiscal debates are becoming central issues in the governor's race.

Join us for a comprehensive look at how an unexpected candidate, campaign finances, national party influence, and major policy battles are reshaping one of the most consequential gubernatorial contests in recent Georgia history.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! It's 1976 again, and in this episode, we take a deep dive into the unusual story behind the 1976 Winter Olympics — the Games that were awarded to Denver, Colorado, and then dramatically given up after voters said no.

We explore how Denver won the bid in 1970, only to see rising environmental concerns, ballooning costs, and taxpayer resistance spark a statewide political backlash. A voter referendum ultimately rejected public funding, marking one of the rare times an Olympic host city walked away after being selected.

We also examine how Innsbruck, Austria — host of the 1964 Winter Games — stepped in on short notice, how Cold War politics shaped the competition and medal counts, and how the 1976 Games fit into a decade when sports and geopolitics were increasingly intertwined.

From ballot boxes to bobsled runs, this episode tells the story of the Winter Olympics that became a political turning point — before the torch was ever lit.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Part two of The Georgia Politics Podcast's special mini-series on the pivotal year of 1976 turns to one of the most influential — and still debated — Supreme Court decisions in American political history: Buckley v. Valeo.

In this episode, we unpack how a post-Watergate push for campaign finance reform led to a constitutional showdown over the role of money in politics, and how the Court's ruling permanently reshaped the rules governing campaigns, candidates, and political advocacy.

We walk through the origins of the case, beginning with Congress' sweeping reforms to the Federal Election Campaign Act, designed to curb corruption and restore public trust after Watergate. From there, we explain the legal challenge that followed, the arguments presented to the Court, and the reasoning behind the justices' complex, split decision. The episode breaks down the key distinctions the Court drew between contribution limits and expenditure limits, why one was upheld while the other was struck down, and how the ruling established the enduring doctrine that political spending is protected speech under the First Amendment.

The discussion also connects the decision's immediate effects in the 1976 election cycle to its long tail in modern politics — from PACs and independent expenditures to later cases that built on Buckley's framework. Along the way, we highlight how these legal principles continue to influence campaign strategy, fundraising, and political messaging at both the national and Georgia state level.

Whether you're a political history buff, a campaign law follower, or simply curious about how today's election finance system took shape, this episode provides clear context, practical explanations, and thoughtful analysis of a ruling that still defines the boundaries of money and political speech nearly 50 years later.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

In this episode of The Georgia Politics Podcast, we're joined by Alex Vanden Heuvel, Chief of Staff for State Senator Nikki Merritt, for an inside look at how Georgia Democrats are preparing for the 2026 legislative session.

From policy priorities to political strategy, we explore what Democrats hope to advance — and where they expect the toughest fights at the Capitol.

We discuss the party's approach to the state budget, tax and economic issues, and how shifting political dynamics could shape debate under the Gold Dome.

If you want a ground-level view of Democratic goals, challenges, and opportunities in the 2026 session, this episode offers a detailed preview of what's ahead in Georgia politics.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

After diving deep into the upheaval of 1975, The Georgia Politics Podcast kicks off a new miniseries on 1976 — a year when Georgia politics collided with national ambition, cultural change and a little bit of chaos.

In Episode 1, our hosts set the stage. From behind-the-scenes maneuvering to the personalities who shaped the moment, this opening episode previews the stories, stakes and surprises that defined 1976.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Lyndsey Coates on Instagram @list_with_lyndsey

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

In this special episode of The Georgia Politics Podcast, we are re-running out interview with Atlanta City Councilman Michael Julian Bond discussing the history, legacy, and ongoing significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. As the son of civil rights leader Julian Bond and a dedicated public servant, Councilman Bond offers a unique and personal perspective on the life and work of Dr. King.

Councilman Bond shares stories from his own experiences growing up in the shadow of the civil rights movement and sheds light on the role Atlanta has played—and continues to play—in keeping Dr. King's dream alive.

Through thoughtful conversation, we discuss how MLK Day is an opportunity to reflect on our collective progress, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and recommit ourselves to the principles of equality, justice, and service to others.

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of one of history's most transformative figures and explore how his vision continues to shape Georgia and the world today. Whether you're a lifelong admirer of Dr. King or learning about his impact for the first time, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for all.

🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol