A delegation of Georgia lawmakers issued a statement urging Governor Brian Kemp (R-GA) to bring Georgia National Guard soldiers home from Washington, D.C., before Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Which lawmakers belong to this group? The group includes State Representatives Sandra Scott (D–Rex), Viola Davis (D–Stone Mountain), Eric Bell (D–Jonesboro), Derrick Jackson (D–Tyrone) and Floyd Griffin (D–Milledgeville), alongside State Senators Kenya Wicks (D–Fayette) and Tonya Anderson (D–Lithonia).
Why are they issuing this statement? In their statement, the lawmakers draw on their military experience and express deep concern about the human toll of this deployment.
They note how prolonged operational separation significantly increases the risk of chronic stress, anxiety, and clinical depression for both deployed service members and their families.
What is the urgency with this request? On October 18, 2026, a National Guard member was shot in Washington, D.C., while responding to an operational confrontation.
Although the injured service member’s state affiliation remains unconfirmed, the incident highlights the unpredictable physical dangers faced by personnel on street patrol duties.
The lawmakers argue that placing our troops in high-stress, hazardous environments without a clearly defined exit strategy increases mental fatigue and physical vulnerability, creating an unsustainable burden on service members and their families.
How the lawmakers concluded their statement:
- “We are calling on Gov. Kemp to secure the return of these personnel before Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, or no later than Christmas.
- “Specifically, we are asking the governor to outline a clear withdrawal timeline, clarify the safety measures in place and identify supportive resources to protect the mental health and economic stability of families experiencing prolonged separation.
- “This is not a partisan issue; it is a family and health issue. We can support our troops and respect military duty while still demanding answers about why hundreds of Georgia citizens remain separated from their support networks.
- “Our National Guard members are vital to our local communities, disaster readiness and family systems right here in Georgia. We must ensure they are taken care of physically and emotionally.”
