Local Matters Podcast

In this episode, Janice Allen Jackson breaks down the recent Augusta mayoral runoff election, examining the results, voter turnout, campaign strategies, and the key factors that shaped the outcome. Was this election more about Garnett Johnson losing support, or Steve Kendrick building a winning coalition? Tune in for insight and analysis on what the results mean for Augusta moving forward. Youtube...

Traci knows that honor cannot stop at ceremony—it must be reflected in how government shows up for families long after the speeches are over. That lived experience defines her mission: to bring our respect H.O.M.E. For Traci, “home” is not a slogan. It is what families are supposed to feel—safety, dignity, opportunity, and trust that the systems meant to serve them actually work. As a mother raisi...

Traci knows that honor cannot stop at ceremony—it must be reflected in how government shows up for families long after the speeches are over. That lived experience defines her mission: to bring our respect H.O.M.E. For Traci, “home” is not a slogan. It is what families are supposed to feel—safety, dignity, opportunity, and trust that the systems meant to serve them actually work. As a mother raisi...

Garnett Johnson is the 85th Mayor of the City of Augusta and a small business owner. An Augusta native, he is proud graduate of George P. Butler High School and Augusta University with a degree in Business Administration. Appointed by Governor Brian Kemp, Garnett serves on the Georgia Department of Economic Development Board. Representing Augusta, he serves as the Third Vice President of the Georg...

Meet Dana Barrett, Fulton County Commissioner and Democratic candidate for Georgia Secretary of State. Dana Barrett is a Fulton County Commissioner and Democratic candidate for Georgia Secretary of State. As a Fulton County Commissioner representing Georgia's largest county, Barrett has been on the front lines of the fight to protect free, fair, and secure elections. She faced fines and the threat...

Toni Dean is the programs manager at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History and Conference Center in Augusta, GA. She has a communications background, having worked in radio, print and television. She spent several years in television as a production manager for two national broadcasts, PBS NewsHour (The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer), Washington DC, and Good Morning America, ABC News, New York....

In this episode, we recap the 2026 election across the CSRA and take a closer look at the races and decisions that shaped this election cycle. We discuss major mayoral races, district-by-district outcomes, and examine voter turnout and what the level of participation may reveal about community engagement across the region. We also talk about what these election results could mean moving forward an...

Tamika Bean ,community leader, entrepreneur, and lifelong public servant dedicated to serving the people of South Augusta. With over two decades of experience in public service, small business ownership, youth mentorship, public health, and community outreach, Tamika has built her life around one mission: showing up for the people who need it most. From owning and operating her salon business for...

In this episode we feature Michael Cioffi and Evett Williams, candidates for District 8, Augusta–Richmond County Commission. Michael Cioffi is a lifelong Augusta resident and candidate for District 8. He and his wife built their first home in South Richmond County at age 21 and have spent more than 30 years raising a family and building their life in the community. He is a graduate of Augusta Univ...

Tori Branum is a Marine veteran and firearms instructor running for Congress in Georgia’s 12th District. After serving her country, she’s now focused on securing the border, strengthening national security, supporting veterans and farmers, and bringing accountability to Washington. Chris Stephens was raised in the rural South and built his career in public service as a 911 dispatcher and police of...

In this solo episode, Janice Allen Jackson breaks down all the races on the ballot, offering insight and context to help voters better understand what’s at stake ahead of election day. This episode is designed to inform and empower the community by making local elections more accessible and easier to understand. Whether you’re a first-time voter or simply looking to stay informed, this discussion...

Lonnie Wimberly – A retired Command Sergeant Major with 30 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, Wimberly enlisted in 1972 and rose through the ranks to senior leadership. He served as Fort Gordon’s Garrison Command Sergeant Major, overseeing major activations, redeployments, and combat operations with zero casualties, and was awarded a second Legion of Merit upon retirement. He earned...

Meet both candidates. Attorney Alexia Davis Payne has spent her legal career serving Burke and Richmond Counties. Originally from Texas, she attended Baylor University on an academic and athletic scholarship before earning her juris doctor from Tulane University. Since 2006, she has served the citizens of Augusta both in and out of the courtroom. She is the current president of the Augusta Confere...

Our Augusta mayor candidate special brings together three voices shaping the future of the city: Eric Gaines, Dr. Lori Myles, and Steven Brian Kendrick. Eric Gaines is a U.S. military veteran, real estate investor, father of two, and community advocate focused on transparency, accountability, and addressing the economic challenges facing local residents. Dr. Lori Myles is a native of Memphis, Tenn...

Stacy Pulliam is a dedicated mom of six, follower of Christ, business owner, and Augusta Richmond County District 2 Commissioner. She is Finance Committee Chair, serves on the Public Safety Committee, and is an ex officio member of Destination Augusta and the Augusta Arts Council. Stacy is the owner of Jhani Realty, recognized nationally for her referral-based business, and she founded DyeVerCity,...

Meet Angelia Pressley. For over 20 years, she has worked at the intersection of business and sustainability, partnering with leading organizations like The Kroger Company, Publix, Ford Motor Company, Coca-Cola and State Farm, bringing a strong understanding of both environmental impact and the bottom line. She provides clients with data-driven insights, strategic communication and community engage...

Inside the District 10 Race, get an exclusive look at the candidates shaping the future of Augusta’s District 10. From community priorities to leadership visions, we dive into what drives these leaders and how they plan to make a difference. Ben Hasan is a proud native of Augusta. He is married with four kids, 12 grandkids, and two great-grandkids. A former Augusta Commissioner, he has hosted Comc...

Chad Peace of the Independent Voter Project joins us to talk about how systemic reform can result in less political polarization. We tackle the issue of whether party labels are helpful or hurtful for voters, and whether younger voters want to engage in a partisan process. We also talk about the significance of Georgia on the national political stage. Learn more at https://independentvoterproject....

Titus Nichols, Army Reservist, attorney, and Morehouse graduate, is running for Georgia State House District 34. We discussed how our legislature can address a variety of issues to make life more affordable. Topics include Medicaid Expansion, child care subsidies, the growing threat of corporate landlords, and how data centers affect our power bills. Learn more about Nichols at titus4ga.com.

Karin Parham is the CEO and founder of the Freedom to Read Coalition of Columbia County, where she works to protect intellectual freedom and ensure public access to diverse literature in local libraries and schools. A former U.S. Army officer, she brings a strong background in leadership, organization, and public service to her advocacy work. In addition to leading the Coalition, Karin serves as T...

Thomas McAdams is a lifelong resident of Augusta who has witnessed the community’s growth firsthand. A devoted husband, father of five with another on the way, and spiritual mentor to many, he serves as Chief Administrative Officer for a local Christian service center, helping strengthen communication and community life. With leadership experience across hospitality, retail, sales, office manageme...

Karen L. Gordon is a media entrepreneur, urban agriculture advocate, and community builder with over 20 years of experience in media, arts, and economic development. She is the Publisher of Urban Pro Weekly, highlighting Black business, politics, arts, and community issues in Augusta, Georgia, and Co-Founder/CEO of Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency, where she leads initiatives focused o...

Don't ignore Rural Georgia! with Keith McCants by Local Matters by Janice Allen Jackson

Clennon L. King is a journalist, historian, and documentary filmmaker. He is also a descendant of influential Georgians who shaped the history and politics of our state. He discusses how Albany became the hub of southwest Georgia, how blacks gained influence, and how the region's past shapes what he considers its bright future. Learn more about Mr. King and his fascinating work at https://augustin...

Dr. Marc-Antonie Cooper is Assistant City Manager of South Fulton, GA and a career public servant. He has added the title of author, as he just released "Unabridged: The Paradox of Public Leadership."We touch on why public service is not easy, how it tests your patience, and more importantly, how perilous it can be when a few people can decide to terminate your employment out of nowhere. You can f...