GAINESVILLE - Georgia's Insurance Commissioner discussed his decision not to run for Lt. Governor Saturday during an appearance in Gainesville - saying he can do more if he stays where he is.
John Oxendine, in town to speak to the Conservative Forum, says there's not much power or authority left with the Lt. Governor but he seriously considered the race.
"I can be much for effective here (as insurance commissioner) and that's where I'm going to stay for one more term, and I was afraid as Lt. Governor I wouldn't be able to do anything," Oxendine said.
PREMIUM TAX CUT
Oxendine said he plans to push for a 50 percent cut in the insurance premium tax in next year's General Assembly.
"Our proposal is to let cities and counties keep their portion and phase out the state portion."
According to Oxendine the insurance premium tax is an unfair hidden tax and is causing the insurance industry to bypass Georgia and take prosperity to neighboring states.
Oxendine also said he wants to promote economic development in southern rural Georgia and stop the "brain drain" that occurs when young people leave their hometowns and counties for larger cities where there are better jobs and pay.
CLASS WAR
Oxendine told his audience Democrats are waging class warfare against Republicans.
Oxendine contends Republicans are not the party of the rich and Democrats are no longer the party of the poor.
"Democrats know they've got to latch onto something because they're ideas are not selling in Georgia," he said.
Wednesday
July 16th, 2025
2:35AM
