TORI BRANUM FOR GEORGIA SENATE DISTRICT 20

Service before self!

Ensuring secure borders and safety by upholding Georgia's laws against sanctuary cities and illegal immigration. It is imperative to maintain the rule of law and make it known that violations will not be tolerated. We are a nation governed by laws that must be respected.

Recognizing the critical role of farmers in national security as food providers, as food is a fundamental necessity for survival. Farmers endure immense generational and societal pressures to sustain their farms, compounded by the unpredictability of weather and the economy. Improved mental health programs tailored to support farmers are essential, given that one in three farmers contemplate suicide each month. As someone with a background in mental health, this issue holds personal significance for me.

Promoting transparency and accountability within the government to ensure that officials are held responsible for their actions and decisions. It is essential for the public to have access to information regarding governmental processes and for officials to act with integrity and openness in their roles.

Encouraging the promotion of trade jobs among high school students, recognizing that college may not be the best path for everyone. It is important to provide opportunities for students to explore and pursue careers in skilled trades, which are essential for a thriving economy and workforce.

Implementing term limits for all state-level elected officials to allow for the infusion of new and younger perspectives in government. By establishing term limits, we create opportunities for fresh ideas and voices to contribute to the future of our state, ensuring a more dynamic and diverse representation in leadership roles.

Identifying children's interests at a young age and nurturing those specific skills is crucial for their personal and professional development. By recognizing and fostering their passions early on, we can help children build on their strengths and interests, setting them up for success in the future.

Rather than providing vouchers for parents to transfer their children from underperforming schools, it is important to focus on improving the schools themselves. By investing in the teachers and classrooms, we can enhance the overall quality of education. Consulting with teachers to understand their perspectives and insights on how to enhance the learning environment is crucial, as they are the ones directly involved in shaping the educational experience for students. It is essential to listen to those who are actively working in the field to make informed decisions and improvements in education.

Advocating for increased pay for law enforcement officers and first responders, with funding provided by the Georgia government. Just as there are state standards for becoming a law enforcement officer, there should also be state-mandated standards for fair compensation. The alarming rate of officer attrition is resulting in extended 911 response times, impacting public safety. Officers should not be forced to choose whom to assist due to a shortage of law enforcement personnel. Prioritizing competitive pay for these vital roles is essential to retaining skilled professionals and ensuring prompt emergency response times.

Upholding the Second Amendment while emphasizing firearms safety and training through the integration of these requirements into the high school curriculum. Implementing firearm safety education at a freshman level ensures that students are equipped with essential knowledge from a young age. Requiring a certificate to obtain a driver's license further underscores the importance of responsible firearm handling. By instilling proper training and education in students, we promote a culture of gun safety and responsible gun ownership in our communities.

Advocating for the return of authentic conservatives to the Republican party and addressing the presence of Republicans in name only (RINOs) who do not truly uphold conservative values. It is important to maintain the integrity of the party by ensuring that its members genuinely align with conservative principles and policies. By prioritizing true conservative representation, the Republican party can better serve its constituents and uphold its core values.

It is essential to have politicians who prioritize serving the people over personal interests. Elected officials should be dedicated to representing and advocating for the needs and concerns of their constituents, rather than pursuing self-serving agendas. By prioritizing the well-being and interests of the public, politicians can foster trust, accountability, and effective governance within our communities.

Upon taking office, my priority will be to thoroughly examine the budget to identify areas of inefficiency or wasteful spending. By conducting a comprehensive analysis, I aim to reallocate funds from ineffective programs to initiatives that have a meaningful impact on the people of Georgia. While I cannot specify a timeframe without reviewing the budget, I am committed to ensuring that resources are utilized effectively to benefit our communities and support vital programs that make a difference in the lives of Georgians.