DawsonTimes.com

ATLANTA (August 31, 2011) - “The redistricting process has been open and fair, including input from citizens and almost every legislator. I’m confident that the redrawn state Senate, House, and Congressional maps we passed are legally sound and will receive pre-clearance by the federal government.

“I supported the State House and State Senate maps but I could not support the Congressional map because of the negative feedback from my constituents. I understand that this process, by its very nature, can’t please everyone. Districts must be redrawn, some to include more voters and others to include fewer voters, to ensure Constitutional representational requirements are met. However, I was voted into office by my constituents and I am only accountable to them.

Many of them are unhappy that the Congressional map splits Forsyth and Pickens Counties into two districts. Many are also not pleased they they’ve been moved out of the current 9th Congressional District represented by Tom Graves. I hold the utmost respect for the open and transparent process, and the senators and representatives who drew this map but I must vote based on the views and input of my constituents.

This is why I voted against the Congressional map.”