The campaigns of Stacey Abrams and Brian Kemp condemned a racist and anti-Semitic robo-call sent to Georgia households days before the November election by a white nationalist group.
Stacey Abrams’ campaign on Saturday called the minute-long recording a sign of “increasing desperation” from Kemp’s supporters and that it was a reminder of “exactly which political party is promoting a climate that champions this kind of vile, poisonous thinking.
Kemp denounced the robo-call on Friday as “absolutely disgusting” and said he stands against anyone who “peddles this type of unbridled hate and unapologetic bigotry.”
The automated call was peppered with vile comments about media icon Oprah Winfrey, who stumped with Abrams on Thursday, as well as Jewish people and "dumb white women." You can click here to listen to the audio.
Abrams has been targeted throughout her campaign to become the nation’s first black female governor by attacks from racists and white supremacists.
One of the more visceral moments took place a few months ago, when a white supremacist shouted down a black supporter of Abrams at an Augusta event. Kemp later came under fire for posing for a photo with him.
Abrams spokeswoman Abigail Collazo said the timing of the automated calls - days before the election and shortly before President Donald Trump’s visit - aimed to “prey on people’s fears” as polls show a tightening race.
"Those voters know that when we vote and we make our voices heard, we can overcome this kind of evil and move our state out of this darkness and into a brighter future," she said.
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Credit: Bob Andres
Credit: Bob Andres
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and U.S. Rep. John Lewis spent part of the morning posing for pictures at the Kroger on Moreland Avenue, surprising dozens of Atlanta shoppers.
Many people told Abrams they had already cast ballots for her. Long lines at early voting sites were reported at some locations on Friday, the final day.
According to state law, anyone standing in line at 7 p.m. must be allowed to vote. At 10 p.m., there were still dozens in line at some locations.
After her rally with former President Barack Obama, Abrams met with voters still standing in line at South DeKalb Mall. Actress Rosario Dawson passed out donuts at the library on Ponce de Leon Avenue in Atlanta.
“The fact that they had been waiting for almost three hours meant alot, but it would mean the most if they actually had a chance to cast their ballots,” Abrams said she told voters. “I was proud to see so many people who stayed in line until the very end.”
Abrams also attended a union-sponsored tailgate at of Georgia State University’s football game.
