In this April 18 episode of The Kudzu Vine, David McLaughlin, Catherine, and Tim open by discussing the sudden withdrawal of Mike Freeman, a knowledgeable Democratic candidate who had appeared enthusiastic just a week earlier. All three speculate that personal or family issues prompted his abrupt exit, noting that no media outlets covered the development despite his being the only Democrat in the special election. They debate where the district’s modest Democratic vote share might go, with consensus that most Democratic voters will likely stay home given a lack of viable alternatives.
The hosts assess the Republican field, naming Tom Graves as the strong favorite thanks to local support and endorsements. They consider whether Democrats might field someone for the general election, but acknowledge the challenges of running in one of Georgia’s least Democratic districts—especially one likely to be dramatically redrawn after the census.
Attention then shifts to statewide politics, particularly speculation that Michael Thurmond will announce a U.S. Senate bid. Catherine expresses frustration with his drawn-out pre-announcement “vamping,” while Tim and David question the strategic wisdom of risking a secure Labor Commissioner seat when defeating Johnny Isakson seems unlikely. They warn that multiple Democratic statewide offices could be lost, leaving the party with no constitutional officers.
The conversation broadens to structural problems within Georgia’s Democratic Party: weak leadership, lack of grassroots organization, and limited engagement from state officials. Catherine and Tim cite poor support for county parties—especially in Fulton—compared to Republicans’ strong local organizing. They discuss potential candidates for down-ballot offices and how Thurmond’s candidacy might affect Roy Barnes and Thurbert Baker. Caller Mel closes by arguing that African American turnout cannot exceed 2008 levels, limiting any electoral boost from a Thurmond Senate run.
