In Fayette speech, Gov. Kemp brags on Georgia economy

Hanna Brothers’ Studio Cafe at Pinewood Atlanta Studios in Fayetteville was filled early on April 19 to hear Gov. Brian Kemp at the Pancakes and Policy event sponsored by the Fayette Chamber of Commerce.

Remarking on several benchmarks areas, Kemp said wages in Georgia are increasing, the unemployment rate is the lowest in years, the school graduation rate is up and the incarceration rate is down.

“Georgia’s economy is a leader in diversified industries,” Kemp said.

The state has a AAA bond rating and there is $2 billion in the Rainy Day fund, Kemp added.

As for the budget that Kemp said reflects the values of Georgians, he noted that, “The budget had overwhelming bipartisan support.”

Kemp noted a sampling of accomplishments from the General Assembly session such as the Life Act, doubling mental health counseling for high school students, a raise for teachers and the Patients First Act.

“The first thing I did in office was sign an executive order for the Georgians First Commission,” Kemp said of the effort to make the state more attractive for corporate prospects. “I think Georgia can be the No. 1 state for small business.”

Giving a nod to local legislators, many of whom were in the audience along with chamber members and local elected officials, Kemp said, “You have great local leaders representing you at the Capitol.”