Cobb County Democrats are persistently criticizing Governor Brian Kemp for his lack of support in fully expanding Medicaid, despite the increasing bipartisan support.
During his speech before the Cobb County Chamber of Commerce, Kemp emphasized his notable achievements in the recent legislative session. These accomplishments included a substantial refund of over $1 billion to taxpayers and salary increases for teachers, DFCS workers, and state law enforcement personnel.
According to Kemp, our ability to consistently take these actions is a direct result of our responsible approach to balancing the state budget.
However, the governor chose not to address the topic of Medicaid during his speech, despite the fact that there is a growing level of support for it within his own party.
Channel 2’s Richard Elliot attended the state Senate Committee hearing weeks ago when Medicaid expansion fell just one vote short of being brought up for a vote before the full Senate.
Elliot received feedback from several Republicans who expressed their openness to the idea.
“At the time, state Sen. Matt Brass expressed that some of us are more receptive to the discussion, as we continue to hear the same complaints that are not diminishing.”
In a statement on Monday, Teri Anulewicz, a Democrat from Cobb County, commended some of the governor’s achievements. However, she emphasized the potential economic benefits that Georgia could experience by expanding Medicaid.
According to Anulewicz, the expansion of Medicaid in Georgia would undoubtedly have a significant impact. She believes that one of the immediate benefits would be the return of millions of federal tax dollars that the state is currently sending to Washington, D.C. By not expanding Medicaid, Georgia is missing out on this crucial funding.
The governor has made it clear that he opposes full expansion and prefers to give his Georgia Pathways alternative more time to develop.
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your invaluable contribution towards the development of our thriving state. Together, we have created an exceptional environment to work and raise our families,” Kemp expressed his gratitude.
Kemp mentioned that he plans to visit Athens later this week to commence the construction of the new UGA medical school.