Time for real leadership: Tangie Herring’s vision for a stronger, safer Middle Georgia | Opinion.

As a 28-year classroom teacher, I’ve seen a lot of bullies. One thing I know for sure—bullies are not leaders. If you’re like me, you’re sick of all the negative ads filling your mailboxes and blowing up your phones, computers, and televisions. It’s unfortunate, but when losing candidates are desperate, they resort to attacks instead of focusing on what matters. My opponent has chosen to run a campaign full of false and misleading information.

I trust the people of District 145 to see through the bully tactics and misinformation. This election is about the future of our community, and I’m ready to work for you. I’ve made difficult choices in my life, but I’ve always done so with integrity and a commitment to doing what’s right. I know what it’s like to face tough times, and that’s why I’ll never stop fighting for you.

Just as I have throughout my entire campaign, I remain focused on what really matters to you—voting rights, public safety, education, lowering taxes, and access to healthcare—because that’s what I’ll focus on when I’m your representative in Atlanta.

Defending Voting Rights and Strengthening Democracy

I believe that every eligible voter should have the right to cast their ballot without unnecessary barriers. Unfortunately, we’ve seen some politicians push for restrictive voting laws that disproportionately affect people of color, low-income communities, and the elderly. Now, more than ever, it is important for each and every one of us to exercise our right to vote in this critical election.

I am committed to expanding access to the ballot box, protecting voting rights, and ensuring that every voice is heard.

Building Stronger Schools and Safer Communities

I’ve spent nearly three decades as a classroom teacher, so I understand what it takes to strengthen our public schools. Investing in education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, providing opportunities for our children, and building a brighter future for everyone. I will push for increased funding for public schools, better pay for teachers, and more resources for students in need. I support public schools that value teachers, include parents, and prioritize preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.

I will stand firm in my belief that strong public schools are the backbone of a strong community, and I will fight for every child to have access to a quality education.

Supporting Our Law Enforcement and Making Middle Georgia Safer

I come from a family of public servants—teachers, pastors, soldiers and law enforcement officers. You can count on me to fully support our law enforcement, including supporting increased pay, state-of-the-art training, and access to the most effective technology.

We must also support effective prevention programs like Macon-Bibb’s award-winning MVP program, which helped reduce homicides by 43% over one year and youth homicides by over 60% during that same period. I already have an excellent working relationship with Mayor Lester Miller and look forward to working with him and other local leaders to increase funding for this effective program, which supports law enforcement and offers opportunities for our youth.

Lowering Taxes

Too many families are struggling to make ends meet. That’s why you can count on me to support the renewal of the Macon-Bibb OLOST, which led to a nearly 50% decrease in property taxes. I stand ready to work with leaders in Monroe County to lower property taxes there as well.

Fighting for Affordable Healthcare

Healthcare is a top priority for me because I’ve seen how the lack of access affects families in our district. Many of you are forced to choose between paying for medical bills or putting food on the table, and that is simply unacceptable. I’m committed to making sure our healthcare tax dollars stay in Georgia where they belong, instead of being sent to other states like New York and California. That’s why I support expanding Medicaid in Georgia, to bring our federal dollars home to provide much-needed relief for families and our healthcare system. Access to quality healthcare must also apply to mental healthcare and addiction treatment, care that should be available to every Georgian.

Playing politics with healthcare dollars is hurting families and driving up healthcare costs for everyone. As your representative, I’ll fight to make sure everyone has access to affordable, quality healthcare.

A Clear Choice for District 145

In this election, the choice is clear. I am running to represent District 145 because I believe in the power of our community. I will fight for affordable healthcare, lower taxes, quality education and fair access to voting. This has been, and will continue to be, my focus. My opponent, however, represents an extreme agenda that puts wealthy interests ahead of working families and our community.

If you’re tired of the bully tactics and the negative campaign, on Election Day, I hope you’ll vote for me, Tangie Herring, for State House—a leader who is focused on your needs and who has the experience, the compassion, and the determination to make real change. Together, we can build a brighter future for Middle Georgia.

Vote Tangie Herring for State House District 145. Let’s make our community stronger, together.

Tangie Herring is the Democratic candidate for Georgia House District 145. Read more about Georgia’s House elections here.