COLUMN: Walker: Week One Under the Gold Dome

By: Sen. Larry Walker III (R-Perry)

The 2026 Legislative Session is officially underway, and after our first full week under the Gold Dome, the Georgia Senate has hit the ground running. While I remain proud to represent Middle Georgia and the 20^th Senate District, this year I am also mindful of a broader responsibility to help lead the Senate in a way that serves every corner of our state.

I am deeply humbled to serve as President Pro Tempore of the Georgia Senate. The trust my colleagues have placed in me is not taken lightly. The role of Pro Tempore isn't about titles, it's about keeping the Senate focused and results-oriented. I'll be continuing to work on the issues that matter most to Georgians through my service on the Senate Committees on Appropriations, Rules, Insurance and Labor, and Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. This is where the real work of governing happens.

This week, I had the opportunity to introduce our Senate Majority Caucus priorities for the session, an agenda centered on reigniting the American Dream across Georgia. That mission matters now more than ever. Families are feeling squeezed by higher prices and economic uncertainty. Senate Republicans are focused on practical solutions that help people keep more of what they earn, afford a home and build a stable future.

That starts with lowering the cost of living. We will continue working to cut income and property taxes, while advancing reforms that reduce unnecessary red tape and lower housing costs. When government lives within its means, families can do the same.

Our priorities also reflect a commitment to long-term strength. We will continue investing in public safety, infrastructure, and protecting Georgia's natural resources, which are assets that support economic growth and quality of life in every region of the state. We're also serious about preparing the next generation. Strong investments in education, literacy and childcare made possible by conservative financial stewardship keep our communities strong for years to come.

Governor Brian P. Kemp reinforced that vision in his final State of the State Address, outlining a responsible agenda focused on tax relief, education and workforce development. Investments to keep postsecondary institutions affordable are opening doors for students from all backgrounds, while significant investments in healthcare education and medical residencies will strengthen access to care across Georgia, including in Middle Georgia. Governor Kemp's steady leadership has helped keep Georgia the best state in the nation to do business, and the Senate will work to build on that success.

Affordability is not an abstract policy debate; it's whether families can pay their bills and still plan for the future. Senate Republicans understand that, and we remain committed to policies that respect hard work, reward responsibility, and keep government accountable.

It remains an honor to serve you under the Gold Dome. As President Pro Tempore, I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver results for Georgians and keep our state on a path of opportunity, stability and growth. As always, I encourage you to reach out to my office with your questions, concerns, or ideas.

# # # #

Sen. Larry Walker III serves as President Pro Tempore of the Senate. He represents the 20^th Senate District, which includes Bleckley, Dodge, Dooly, Laurens, Pulaski, Treutlen and Wilcox counties, as well as a portion of Houston County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0095 or by email at [email protected].

For all media inquiries, please reach out to [email protected].