Wednesday on Political Rewind: As cases of COVID-19 surge dramatically across Georgia, candidates on both sides of the aisle are making public health policy and spread of the virus a key issue ahead of the 2022 election. Republicans blame President Joe Biden for the recent spike in cases, while Democrats say it is GOP resistance to mask mandates and vaccinations that are at issue.

Meanwhile, Gov. Brian Kemp urged state business leaders to back his efforts to address crime in Atlanta and other major cities. In a speech at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Kemp highlighted his intentions to introduce measures to tackle crime rates. It is an issue that might receive attention at the special redistricting legislative session this fall.

Plus, Georgia U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is one strike away from being banned from Twitter for life, according to the website.

Panelists:

Greg Bluestein — Political reporter, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Rene Alegria — President and CEO, Mundo Hispanico Digital

Audrey Haynes — Professor of political science, University of Georgia

Kurt Young — Professor of political science and department chair, Clark Atlanta University