ATLANTA — With a focus on bolstering Georgia’s agricultural sector amidst rising costs, Republican candidate Rick Jackson has introduced a strategic plan aimed at aiding farmers struggling with increased diesel and fertilizer prices.
During an event at Cagle’s Farm in Canton, a well-known tourist spot, Jackson, a healthcare executive, expressed his commitment to supporting agricultural workers, stating, “I want our farmers to know that as governor I will be in the fight to help them in any way I can.”
In response, Democratic contender Keisha Lance Bottoms challenged Jackson’s proposal, highlighting her proactive approach to engaging with farmers and her own comprehensive plan. The former Atlanta mayor criticized Jackson’s alignment with former President Donald Trump, suggesting that the financial pressures on farmers escalated under Trump’s administration.
TaNisha Cameron, a spokesperson for Bottoms, remarked, “Slick Rick Jackson has proven he is too afraid to stand up to Trump and fight for Georgia’s farmers.”
Jackson’s agricultural initiative includes maintaining a tax exemption for the sector, suspending state tax on diesel during price hikes, and facilitating access to affordable capital for family farms. Additionally, he aims to attract fertilizer manufacturers, counter inexpensive imports from countries with lenient regulations, and create a 250 million-gallon daily emergency water reserve.
His strategy also involves establishing cooperative meat and produce processing centers to reduce expenses.
Both Bottoms and Jackson share a vision of supporting cooperatives, with Bottoms advocating for resource-sharing among farmers through equipment and processing capabilities.
Bottoms’ proposal further includes property tax relief for heirs, expanding agricultural education, and assisting farmers with federal program applications. She also criticized Trump for temporary relief measures on certain beef tariffs.
State Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, a Republican, voiced opposition to the Trump policy, warning that it might jeopardize cattle producers. Harper stated, “Increasing our reliance on imported food is not a long-term solution to Americans’ affordability concerns,” in a social media post.
Details on how Jackson and Bottoms would implement their plans remain sparse. On the issue of limiting agricultural imports, Jackson remarked, “I don’t know all of the ways, but if there’s any way to do it, I’ll get it done.”
The two candidates are set to present their platforms during a town hall on October 6 at 8 p.m., organized by Atlanta News First.
This event is currently their sole scheduled debate before early voting begins on October 13. Bottoms and other statewide candidates, excluding Jackson, have confirmed participation in the Atlanta Press Club debates at Georgia Public Broadcasting on October 12 and 13.
