Brian Jack Elected to Congress in Georgia

Brian Jack, a former aide to President-elect Donald Trump, won his first term in the U.S. House by capturing Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District and defeating Democrat Maura Keller. The seat became open due to the retirement of U.S. Rep. Drew Ferguson.

Jack, 36, is a native of Peachtree City. He previously served as Trump’s political director and also worked with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Jack’s campaign focused on economic and immigration issues, while Keller advocated for abortion rights, veterans’ services, and higher wages. Jack’s top priorities include renewing Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tips and Social Security benefits.

In his victory speech, Jack expressed gratitude to his supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on his campaign promises. His win maintains the Republican stronghold in Georgia’s 3rd District.

  GOP Maintains Majorities in General Assembly 

Republicans maintained control of both chambers in the Georgia General Assembly, holding a 33-23 majority in the Senate and a 101-78 advantage in the House. Despite a few close contests, the GOP’s overall numbers remained steady.

In the Senate, most incumbents were easily reelected, with a few new Republicans joining.

One notable race was in District 48, where Shawn Still, who is involved in the Georgia election interference case, defeated Democrat Ashwin Ramaswami with 53.6% of the vote.

The House saw some tight races, especially in districts with large minority populations. Incumbent Republicans such as Matt Reeves, Farooq Mughal, and Mack Jackson faced strong challenges, with some races decided by razor-thin margins.

Nine Secrets Behind the Varsity’s Success 

The Varsity has long been an Atlanta icon, known for its massive size and signature fast food offerings.

The Georgia Sun has compiled a list of nine secrets behind its success, including its founding by Georgia Tech student Frank Gordy and the popularity of its signature Frosted Orange drink, a fan favorite.

The Varsity’s fame extends beyond its loyal customers, attracting celebrities like former presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Athletes, musicians, and other public figures have also made the iconic drive-in a must-visit spot, solidifying its cultural importance in Atlanta.

Another key factor in its enduring success is its unique in-house slang, designed to keep orders moving quickly and create a memorable experience for customers. Check out all nine secrets here.

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➤ Atlanta: The city council approved $17.9 million to purchase 11 new fire trucks for the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department after an audit found significant issues with the aging fleet. (More)

➤ Albany: An 18-year-old Albany man, Jeremy Marshall, was arrested in connection with an October shooting at Albany State University’s homecoming that killed one person and injured four others. (More)

➤ Peachtree Corners: Georgia Power crews will begin work to enhance the safety and reliability of the energy grid by trimming and removing trees near power lines. (More)

➤ Athens: UGA plant biologist Kelly Dawe has received a $1.8 million grant to study the breakage-fusion-bridge cycle, a genetic process linked to cancer. (More)

➤ Atlanta: Brandon Winfield, founder of iAccess Innovations Inc., developed a program using QR codes to help businesses improve accessibility for people with disabilities, now adopted by Zoo Atlanta. (More)

➤ Gwinnett County: Victoria Bowles, a former University of Georgia recruiting staffer injured in a 2023 crash, has amended her lawsuit against UGA football player Jalen Carter. Bowles is now seeking $5 million in damages, alleging that Carter’s negligent racing caused the crash, which left her with severe injuries and resulted in the deaths of two others. (More)

➤ The Atlanta Falcons chose not to make any moves at the NFL trade deadline this year, a controversial decision among fans. (More)

➤ Atlanta Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos revealed that star players Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. will likely miss Opening Day next season as they rehab from injuries that prematurely ended their 2024 seasons. (More)

➤ Georgia came in at No. 3 in the first edition of the College Football Playoff rankings. (More)

➤ Yesterday’s Results: NCAAF | NHL | NBA | NCAAM | NCAAW | LPGA

➤ Landmark Properties is exploring plans for a 2,000-bed student housing tower near The Varsity’s original location, featuring amenities such as a pool and study spaces. (More)

➤ Pershing Park Plaza in Midtown has been sold by Franklin Street Properties Corp to an undisclosed buyer for $34 million. (More)

➤ A new Checkers and Rally’s has opened in Social Circle, marking franchisee Yousuf Dosani’s third location in the state, with plans for further expansion. (More)

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Doctor Reveals 30-Second Fix for Joint Pain

A Boston doctor found a simple way to fix joint pain at home. His method is based on Harvard research that reveals why some seniors stay active into their 90s. 

The secret? Most people make a key mistake with their joints every day. But when they stop, they experience life-changing relief.

Over 180,000 people have tried his 30-second method. Many say their joint pain is gone. Now you can watch his free video to learn this simple fix for yourself.

Click here to see how it works.

➤ A new report reveals that nearly one-third of American teens aged 12 to 17 experienced bullying in the past year, with 12 to 14-year-olds reporting the highest levels. (More)

➤ Nominations are open for the Outstanding Georgia Young Peanut Farmer Award, which will recognize a young farmer’s contributions to agriculture at the Georgia Peanut Farm Show in January 2025. Eligible applicants must be active peanut farmers under 45. (More)

➤ The World Atlas highlights seven Georgia towns as ideal for seniors. Peachtree City is noted for its golf-cart paths and active retiree community, while St. Marys boasts affordable housing and proximity to Cumberland Island. (Full List)

After the election, are you finding it difficult to get back to your daily routine?

1. Yes
2. No

Yesterday’s Results:

Was there a long line at your polling place?

1. Yes: 28%
2. No: 28%
3. I mailed in my ballot: 44%

What is the primary Federal Reserve district for Georgia?

Show me the answer