House Minority Leader Carolyn Hugley has represented her Columbus district since 1992 and these three decades of legislative service have prepared her well to lead the largest House Democratic caucus in 20 years when Georgia General Assembly convenes January 13.
Georgia WIN List asked Rep. Hugley about her new leadership role and Democratic Caucus priorities for the upcoming session. “Our Opportunity Agenda is focused on ensuring that, in the number one state to do business, the people have access to the tools and resources that they need to- not just survive, but to thrive. We will focus on three policy main areas, economic attainment, educational advancement and healthy, sustainable, communities,” she said.
Below are House Minority Leader Carolyn Hugley’s answers to all the questions posed by Georgia WIN List as a preview of the 2025 legislative session.
Which of the policies already being promoted by Republicans do Democrats find most egregious?
The most egregious Republican policy is the failure to expand Medicaid. Governor Kemp’s Pathways program (a waiver program with work requirements) has had dismal enrollment results. This leaves Georgia with one of the highest rates of uninsured people (12 percent) and the third highest in the number of rural hospital closures (nine). Republicans are depending on a program which has spent most of its budget on administrative costs while thousands of our citizens continue to remain blocked from access to health care. Georgians deserve better!
Are there important legislative initiatives where you believe bi-partisan solutions can be found?
The budget, the issue of gaming in Georgia, advances on behalf of child welfare, infrastructure improvements and responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene offer great opportunities for bipartisan solutions.
Rep. Carolyn Hugley, for most of your time in the General Assembly, you served alongside the much beloved “Dean of the House” Representative Calvin Smyre, also of Columbus. Are there leadership lessons you learned from him which you will now adapt to your own style in your new role?
State Representative Calvin Smyre served our state proudly for more than 47 years and it was my honor to serve with him and learn from such a great statesman. My favorite lessons from Calvin Smyre include:
- There are no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, just issues.
- Always leave the door open for working together on the next issue.
- If you follow the budget, the issues will come to you.
- Always acknowledge those who help you – when you see a turtle on a fencepost, you know that somebody put them there.
- Always take care of the people of Columbus
Which other political leaders past or present serve as a role model for you?
In addition to Representative Smyre, Representative Georganna Sinkfield was an outstanding legislator who I admired. Representative Sinkfield was a fierce advocate for children who led with grace and determination. Also, the late President Jimmy Carter, the ultimate servant leader, showed us we can live out our faith while serving our constituents. Finally the courageous Congressman John Lewis challenged us not to shy away from ”good trouble” in the service of mankind.
Many neighboring states are set to debate truly draconian measures to control reproductive freedom in the coming months. Yet, so far, such bills do not seem to be on the Georgia GOP agenda. Do you see extreme measures banning abortion and contraception being introduced in Georgia?
I would not be surprised if we did not see some of those measures introduced here in Georgia. However, they are more likely in the second year of the legislative term when we get closer to election season.
Long term, what is the best strategy for restoring and protecting reproductive freedom in Georgia?
The best way to fight for reproductive freedom is to elect more members who believe in the importance of this issue to Georgia families. Also, we must highlight the stories of Georgians affected by the actions of Governor Brian Kemp and the Republican agenda. I applaud the election efforts of WIN List and I can attest to your effectiveness over the years. Keep it up!
With Republicans in control at the state and national level, many who have been active in advocacy work for years are still worried and even depressed following November election results. What gives you hope for moving forward?
As you know, I believe in persistence. It is natural to be disappointed after a loss. But, we should step back, assess what we can do better, learn the hard lessons and get back on the field. I am hopeful for the future when I listen to the passion of our new House caucus members – they won after hard fought campaigns and are ready to make a difference not for themselves but for their communities and our state!
What is the best advice you give to those who want to make a difference?
If you really want to make a difference, start where you are. Work to make your community better by attacking the problems right in front of you. As the saying goes: “All politics is local.”
If someone thinks a political campaign might be in their future, what advice do you offer?
If you believe an election is in your future, don’t wait to be asked, start working now to prepare yourself to be the candidate or to help candidates or advocate for your cause. Volunteer in campaigns and take advantage of workshops for those interested in public office. If an election is in your future, make sure your desire is about service.
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