Atlanta has an eviction problem, and it’s much bigger than a few people simply falling behind on rent.On this episode of Where The Party At?, we break down why metro Atlanta continues to see eviction filings at an extraordinary rate, what Georgia law has to do with it, and why an eviction filing can follow a renter even when they ultimately pay what they owe.Over the last 12 months, the five-county Atlanta metro recorded 142,047 eviction filings, representing a 24% filing rate roughly one filing for every four renter households. At the same time, the cost of housing continues to outpace what many Georgia workers earn. In metro Atlanta, the 2026 housing wage for a two-bedroom apartment is $35 an hour, while fair market rent is $1,820 per month.We get into why Georgia’s eviction process can move so quickly, the cost of filing an eviction case, the rent-to-wage gap, housing supply and zoning, racial disparities in eviction filings, and what state lawmakers, local governments and courts could potentially do differently.But that’s just the beginning.

ALSO ON THIS EPISODE POLL WHIPLASH: New polls are giving Georgia voters very different pictures of the governor and U.S. Senate races. We talk about why you should look beyond the headline and pay attention to who conducted the poll, sample size and margin of error. A Rasmussen survey had Rick Jackson at 48% and Keisha Lance Bottoms at 45%, a three-point difference within its stated margin of error. The same pollster had Jon Ossoff at 51% and Mike Collins at 42% in the Senate contest, while a later Quantus survey measured Ossoff at 48.2% and Collins at 44.4%.

THE FIGHT OVER BALLOTS: We discuss mail-ballot rules, multilingual voting materials, Georgia’s voter rolls and the renewed conversation around hand-marked paper ballots. We also get into an accessibility concern raised before a Georgia legislative committee: if most voters use hand-marked ballots while voters with disabilities use machines, could that make those voters easier to identify?

DID AI WRITE FULTON COUNTY LEGISLATION? Fulton County Commissioner Dana Barrett raised questions after running several proposed ordinances and resolutions through an AI-detection tool. Commissioners Bob Ellis and Marvin Arrington Jr. pushed back on the larger criticism, opening a much bigger conversation: what role should artificial intelligence play in writing laws and government policy?

CONGRESS WENT HOME: The House left Washington ahead of the November election, setting off another debate about what Congress is and isn’t getting done before voters head to the polls.

THE PARTY LINE: This week’s caller asked how she should connect her Christian faith to her political party, especially when she feels the Republican Party represents more of her values than the Democratic Party.

PARTY POOPER — HARTSFIELD-JACKSON: An estimated 33,000 gallons of sewage spilled near Sullivan Creek, a tributary of the Flint River. We talk about the latest incident and concerns surrounding previous releases connected to the airport.

PARTY STARTER — CITY OF ATLANTA: Atlanta launched a new anti-displacement microloan pilot designed to help eligible renters before a missed payment becomes an eviction case. Eligible households at participating properties can receive $500 with no interest or fees, repaid at $20 per week for 25 weeks.

The bigger question running through this episode: Who actually has the power to change the issues affecting your everyday life?Sometimes it’s Washington. But a lot of the decisions involving housing, elections, ethics, courts and local government are being made much closer to home.

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Stockbridge Voters Chose a Mayor. 3 Councilmembers Removed Him. | Ep. 125

Stockbridge voters elected 22-year-old Jayden Williams as the youngest mayor in the city’s history. Ten months later, three City Council members voted to remove him from office following a daylong hearing.

In this episode, we break down the allegations against Williams, the city charter provision that gave the council the power to remove him, and why removal by a council is different from a voter-led recall. We also compare his case with former Augusta Mayor Hardie Davis and former Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary.

The biggest lesson for young candidates: Winning the election is only the beginning. Understanding the charter, ethics policies, financial rules, and political structure surrounding your office matters just as much as running the campaign.

Also in this episode:

• Georgia Congressman Mike Collins takes the stage at the Republican midterm convention and attacks Sen. Jon Ossoff’s record.

• More than 500 Georgia National Guard troops remain deployed in Washington, D.C., raising questions about cost, public safety, and gubernatorial authority.

• Atlanta City Councilmember Mary Norwood endorses Republican Rick Jackson for governor.

• Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger earns our Party Starter award for joining a bipartisan group of election officials opposing last-minute changes to mail-in ballot procedures.

Watch Mike Collins at the Republican convention:

https://x.com/LandOfConfused/status/2098328635207762287/video/1

Watch Mary Norwood’s endorsement of Rick Jackson:

https://youtu.be/4Irk2ofaCt8

Who was right in Stockbridge—the City Council or the voters who elected Mayor Williams? Let us know in the comments.

Got a political question or something to say? Call The Party Line:

https://CallTheParty.com

Subscribe, turn on notifications, and stay connected with Where The Party At? as we make politics easier to understand.

On today’s episode, we are OUTSIDE!!!!!

Happy Labor Day Everyone!

Huge shoutout to Sandra Williams, a major leader in the labor movement, for inviting Where The Party At? to the Annual Labor Day Picnic, hosted by the Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council / AFL-CIO.We took the podcast straight to the picnic and sat down with labor leaders, community leaders, elected officials, and candidates running for office across Georgia. Throughout this episode, we talk about the role unions have played in improving working conditions, why labor issues matter at the ballot box, and how the labor movement has impacted workers including people who have never been members of a union. From statewide races to local government, we heard directly from the people organizing, advocating, and running for office.

INTERVIEWS + TIMESTAMPS

Walter D. Andrews — 3:30 CWA 13204

Keturah Johnson — 10:17 Association of Flight Attendants-CWA

Penny Brown Reynolds — 17:33 Candidate for Georgia Secretary of State

Bentley Hudgins — 23:00 Candidate for State Senate District 90

Keisha Lance Bottoms — 30:07 Candidate for Governor of Georgia

Derrick Boazman — 37:14 Community Organizer | Former District 12 Councilmember

Charlie Bailey — 43:34 Chair, Democratic Party of Georgia

Nikki Porcher — 51:45 Candidate for Georgia Labor Commissioner

Maggie Goldman — 1:00:57 Candidate for Fulton County Commission District 1

Yolanda Pearson — 1:07:51 A. Philip Randolph Institute

Rob Epstein — 1:13:35 Candidate for Georgia House District 23

Sandra Williams — 1:21:39 Georgia AFL-CIO

One thing we also noticed: no Republican candidates were present at the picnic, despite invitations being extended.Watch the full episode and hear directly from the candidates, organizers, and labor leaders about the issues shaping Georgia’s workforce and political landscape.

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Subscribe and tune in for our “Who Runs Atlanta,” series of interviews with political candidates.

Watch or listen to Where The Party At?: https://linktr.ee/wherethepartyatpod

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This week on Where The Party At? Georgia politics is giving us plenty to talk about. We start with the governor’s race, where recent polling has **Rick Jackson and Keisha Lance Bottoms in a statistical tie.** At this point, the race may be less about changing voters’ minds and more about **who actually shows up in November.** We break down what those polls really mean, why the margin of error matters, and how young and Black voter turnout could change the makeup of the electorate. We also get into the parking lot confrontation between Bottoms and Jackson after a campaign ad targeted Bottoms’ husband. Then we follow the money to **Medicaid**. Georgia created Pathways instead of fully expanding Medicaid, but now state leaders are asking Washington for a higher federal match. We break down what Pathways is, why the state wants more federal money, how work requirements affect enrollment, and how the debate could change depending on who becomes Georgia’s next governor. Finally, **Atlanta got passed over for the 2028 Democratic National Convention...again.** The DNC narrowed its list to Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia, leaving Atlanta out despite Georgia’s status as a major political battleground. We talk about Mayor Andre Dickens’ response, what the decision says about the national party’s relationship with Georgia and the South, and whether hosting a convention actually matters politically. IN THIS EPISODE: Georgia’s governor race is essentially tied How to actually read a political poll Why margin of error matters Rick Jackson vs. Keisha Lance Bottoms Why turnout could decide the governor’s race The role of young and Black voters in November Why Jon Ossoff can lead while the governor’s race remains tied Bottoms and Jackson’s parking lot confrontation The campaign fight over political families Georgia Pathways vs. full Medicaid expansion Why Georgia wants a 90% federal Medicaid match Work requirements and Medicaid enrollment The connection between Medicaid and SNAP requirements Whether Georgia’s Pathways program is working as intended Why the DNC passed over Atlanta for 2028 Mayor Andre Dickens’ response to the DNC What Atlanta losing the convention actually means for Georgia politics Subscribe to **Where The Party At?** for conversations about Atlanta, Georgia politics, elections, civic engagement, public policy, and the decisions shaping our communities.

This week on Where The Party At?, Eldredge is out in Los Angeles with the We Are CommUNITY Choir, so King Williams pulls up to guest host. King is a writer, historian, and Atlanta-area native with plenty of takes about development, politics, power, and who gets to shape the future of our communities. We start in South DeKalb with the closing of New Black Wall Street Market and the challenges facing commercial spaces across the area. What does it mean when a project built around the promise of Black economic power doesn't survive? Is it simply about whether the community showed up or are there larger forces determining which developments succeed? That conversation leads us to a bigger question: Who actually holds the power? We look at development authorities like Decide DeKalb, public investment in places like Belvedere Plaza, and what happens when some of the decisions affecting our neighborhoods are made by boards most residents never voted for and may not even know exist. Then we turn to the 2026 election and the races happening below the governor's race. King breaks down why down-ballot elections deserve more attention and what it could mean if Millennials and Gen Z became more engaged in local and state politics. IN THIS EPISODE: The closing of New Black Wall Street Market The future of economic development in South DeKalb What Black economic development actually requires Who controls development decisions in our communities Decide DeKalb and appointed development authorities Why down-ballot elections matter The political power of Millennials and Gen Z Why younger voters aren't showing up at the same rates as older generations What it looks like for a new generation to step into political leadership How to find the rooms where decisions about your community are actually being made THE MOVE: Find your local district and learn what's on your November ballot. Then go one step further: identify one board, authority, commission, or public meeting where decisions affecting your community are being made and show up. Voting matters. But understanding who has the power, where they meet, and how decisions get made is part of going beyond the ballot. Subscribe to Where The Party At? for conversations about Atlanta, Metro Atlanta, Georgia politics, civic engagement, elections, development, and the decisions shaping our communities.

Georgia Primary Day: Turnout Surges, Sports Betting Money Floods the State, and Kemp Signs a Major Elections Bill | Where The Party At? Podcast Primary Election Day is here in Georgia, and in this episode of Where The Party At?, Eldredge and Saba break down the latest turnout numbers, the massive influence of sports betting money in state politics, Governor Brian Kemp’s controversial elections bill, and whether Donald Trump can continue his winning streak in Republican primaries. More than one million Georgians cast ballots during early voting a 19% increase over the 2022 midterm primary.

But who’s actually voting, and what does it tell us about the races ahead? We also unpack how a super PAC funded by major sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel has spent over $10 million in Georgia legislative races, all in an effort to legalize sports betting. Plus: Governor Kemp signs HB 369, which will make many local elections nonpartisan in five metro Atlanta counties. Democratic district attorneys, including Fani Willis and Sherry Boston, prepare to challenge the law in court. Trump tests his influence in Indiana, Louisiana, and Kentucky. Mike Johnson defends congressional stock trading.

We celebrate the record number of early voters who showed up to make their voices heard. Topics Covered Georgia Primary Election Turnout Over 1 million Georgians voted early, up 19% from 2022. Democrats accounted for 56.7% of early voters, compared to 41.7% for Republicans. Voters aged 65+ still dominate turnout, but their share dropped from 57% to 50.4%. Nearly 78% of early voters ages 18–29 did not vote in the 2022 primary, signaling major new participation. Sports Betting PAC Spending Sports betting companies formed the “Win for America” PAC. DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and Bet365 have poured more than $10.3 million into Georgia legislative races. Polls show 63% of Georgians support legalized sports betting, and nearly 80% want a statewide referendum. Kemp Signs HB 369 Starting in 2028, local elections in Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Cobb, and Clayton counties will become nonpartisan.

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Today! We are talking about Georgia Bill SB233 - Georgia Promise Schools Act’s. The measure allows families with students enrolled in Georgia’s K-12 public schools to remove $6,500 of state funding provided to local school districts to attend private schools or to homeschool. Dr. Owens joins us to discuss the perils of such a bill passing and what we can do to fight for a better more equitable GA education system.

*Another reason why voting matters!*

Dr. Stephen Owens is the education director at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Stephen advocates for diverse, inclusive, and excellent public schools through research and data analysis. Stephen graduated from the University of Georgia, where he holds a doctorate with a focus on education policy. His dissertation centered on state-level agenda formation.

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Stay tuned and get informed! We are laying the foundation down to be able to have competent political conversations and discourse, all for the greater good.

Subscribe and tune in for our “Who Runs Atlanta,” series of interviews with political candidates.

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We are back, but the news doesn't stop! Today we talk

1. Automatic Voter Registration in Georgia: Georgia Republicans voted to end automatic voter registration. Senate Bill 221, which passed out of committee, contrasts with the previous implementation by Brian Kemp during his tenure as secretary of state. The bill's fate now rests with the full Senate and possibly the governor.
2. Georgia Inmates’ Letter to Kemp: Inmates in Georgia penned an open letter to Governor Kemp, addressing corruption and suggesting solutions for safety and staff issues within the prison system. The response from the head of the Georgia Department of Corrections highlighted efforts to address these concerns.
3. Black Clergy Call for Ceasefire: Over 1,000 Black clergy, including 200 pastors from Georgia, urge President Biden to push for a ceasefire in Israel. This call reflects a broader perspective linking war, militarism, poverty, and racism. However, some voices emphasize holding Hamas accountable alongside pursuing peace.
4. CPAC 2024 Highlights: CPAC featured speeches by figures like Jack Posobeic advocating for the end of democracy. Byron Donalds's opening speech garnered attention, potentially positioning him as a leading Black Republican figure. Lara Trump's role indicates her potential bid for the co-chair of the RNC.
5. South Carolina Primary Results: The podcast discusses results from the South Carolina primary, including notable speeches and moments such as Randall Woodfin's remarks on diversity and inclusion in sports institutions.

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Stay tuned and get informed! We are laying the foundation down to be able to have competent political conversations and discourse, all for the greater good.

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In today's episode, we delve into recent legislative updates, political dynamics, and community empowerment initiatives, highlighting the impact of social media on youth, the nuances of the U.S. political landscape, and the power of community action.

Key Topics:

• U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory (2023): Focuses on the impact of social media on youth mental health.
• 2024 Legislative Updates: Georgia's SB 351: Restricts minors' social media access via school resources; emphasizes parental consent and school policies.
• Florida's Similar Bill: Excludes parental consent for minors' social media use.
• Federal Senate Bill 1291: Seeks age verification on social media; restricts access for children under 13.
• Nikki Haley's Presidential Campaign: Examines her standing in the primaries, endorsements, and prospects.
• Media and Community News: The Baltimore Sun: Acquired by the owner of Sinclair Media.
• The People’s Community Land Trust: A collaborative effort for affordable housing in Atlanta.

This episode provides insights into how recent legislation and political strategies intersect with the evolving digital landscape and societal needs. We also celebrate the triumphs of community-driven initiatives, showcasing the power of collective action in shaping a better future.

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Stay tuned and get informed! We are laying the foundation down to be able to have competent political conversations and discourse, all for the greater good.

Subscribe and tune in for our “Who Runs Atlanta,” series of interviews with political candidates.

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Welcome to "Where the Party At?!", hosted by Saba Long. In this episode, Angela Jetty joins us to delve into the intricacies of Georgia's legislative session. It's essential to remember key dates: Georgia's legislative session lasts 40 days, with Crossover Day (Feb 29) being the last day for bills to pass either the House or Senate to move forward this session, and Sine Die (March 28) marking the final day for bills to go to the Governor's desk. Understanding the legislative process is crucial, as bills go through three readings, committees, and calendars.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/

Join Angela Letty and Saba Long as they navigate Georgia's legislative process, empowering you to engage effectively with your legislators. Stay tuned for more insights into Atlanta's politics, and be sure to subscribe and share "Where the Party At?!" to keep up with the latest in local governance. Your voice matters in shaping the future of your community.

**CIVICS 101**

Understanding the Legislative Process:

The legislative process involves bills passing through readings, committees, and calendars. Bills are first filed and read on the House/Senate floor before being assigned to a committee. The second reading in the House is largely ceremonial, whereas in the Senate, it occurs after the bill passes out of committee. The third reading opens the bill for debate, and rules and calendars determine which bills proceed. Committees are where bills are discussed, reviewed, and debated, with various stakeholders participating. Bills that pass out of committee go back to their respective legislative chambers with three options: "do pass," "do pass with amendments," or "do pass by substitute." If a bill doesn't pass the committee, it receives an unfavorable report.

Engaging with Legislators:

Engaging with legislators is essential for civic participation. Use the General Assembly website to find your State Representative/State Senator. The website provides their contact information, allowing you to reach out via phone, email, or by visiting their Capitol or CLOB offices. You can also watch House and Senate sessions online or from the gallery on the fourth floor. If you want to meet your legislators in person, wait outside the ropes on the third floor for an opportunity to discuss important issues.

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Stay tuned and get informed! We are laying the foundation down to be able to have competent political conversations and discourse, all for the greater good.

Subscribe and tune in for our “Who Runs Atlanta,” series of interviews with political candidates.

Watch or listen to Where The Party At?: https://linktr.ee/wherethepartyatpod

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Watch or listen to Where The Party At?: https://linktr.ee/wherethepartyatpod

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