A group of metro Atlanta state lawmakers endorsed U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris’ 2020 bid on Wednesday, a week after the Democratic presidential debate was held in the city.
State Reps. Donna McLeod of Lawrenceville, “Able” Mable Thomas of Atlanta and Mike Wilensky of Dunwoody announced their support for Harris, along with state Sen. Valencia Seay of Riverdale.
They join House Minority Leader Bob Trammell, one of the few Georgia Democrats to represent a rural district, and Everton Blair, a Gwinnett school board member seen as a rising star in metro Atlanta politics. Both announced their endorsement in July.
And two other local officials also rolled out their support: Lithonia Councilwoman Amelia Inman and Lovely Dhillon, a local activist.
Seay said Harris will “return a sense of civility back to the White House while also solving the issues everyday Americans face.” And Thomas called her the “fighter we need in the White House.”
“She has always stood up for the rights of all Americans and I know she will continue to in the White House,” said Thomas.
They are among a growing group of Georgia elected leaders who have picked sides in the race.
Former Vice President Joe Biden has amassed the lion's share of Georgia endorsements, but other candidates – including Harris and Mayor Pete Buttigieg of South Bend, Ind. – have also wooed some officials.
The California senator has courted Georgians during several trips to the state, including a March swing by two famous Atlanta institutions and a breakfast focusing on black women's issues the day after the debate.
About the Author
