This Thanksgiving, we have so much to be grateful for as fellow Georgians and proud citizens of this great nation. I am deeply honored and humbled by the privilege to serve you, and I am thankful every day for the trust you place in me.

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the blessings of the season, let us also remember those who may be facing hardships. A simple act of kindness can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Sharing our time, resources and support reflects the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving has a rich and meaningful history in our country, and the tradition dates back to the early 1600s. Pilgrims and American Indians came together to share a harvest meal in a spirit of cooperation and gratitude. Over time, this moment of unity and appreciation for God’s provision became a cherished American tradition. It was later formalized by President Abraham Lincoln, when he declared Thanksgiving a national holiday during the Civil War to bring comfort, reflection and hope to a divided nation. Today, we continue this tradition as a reminder of resilience, faith, and the enduring strength of the American spirit.

This holiday is a perfect moment to pause and reflect on how fortunate we are. The vision and sacrifices of our Founding Fathers made possible a nation rooted in liberty, opportunity and the belief that every person can pursue their God-given potential. Our freedoms today stand as a testament to their courage and unwavering commitment to a brighter future.

We are also profoundly thankful for the generations of first responders and military service members who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities and defending our country. Their bravery, sacrifice, and steadfast service ensure that our families can live in safety, enjoy prosperity and celebrate the holidays in peace.

May this season bring renewed hope, joy, and gratitude to you and your loved ones. From the Albers family to your family, we wish you a safe, blessed, and very Happy Thanksgiving!

Veterans Day is a solemn reminder that the freedoms we enjoy were realized through courage, sacrifice and an unwavering devotion to duty. Our veterans stood on the front lines of liberty, answered the call when our nation needed them most and protected the values that define America. Generations of my family served the military and as first responders, which fills me with pride every day.

We honor them not only for their service, but for their character and for choosing service over self. We also recognize them for defending the innocent, and for carrying the torch of freedom to every corner of the world. Their example inspires us to remain vigilant in safeguarding our great republic, which they swore to protect.

In Georgia, we take pride in leading the nation in supporting our veterans and military families. We have prioritized strengthening veterans’ healthcare access and job training opportunities, expanding educational benefits, and supporting veteran-owned businesses. These efforts ensure that those who served receive the respect and resources they have earned.

It has been my priority to support the brave men and women who wore the uniform. I have authored and passed legislation to help our veterans reintegrate, thrive, and receive the benefits they deserve.

On Veterans Day and every day, let us remember that our freedoms are never free. We owe a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid. We can honor our veterans by living as responsible citizens, defending the values they fought for and offering sincere thanks to every man and woman who served in the United States Armed Forces. God Bless America and our Veterans!

On November 11th, we honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the our great nation. It is my hope in prayer that everyday is considered Veterans Day and we always recognize and support those who served.

Heaven has a new angel with the loss on earth of my friend and colleague, Georgia State Representative Mandi Ballinger. She was a champion for so many people and her legacy of service, family, and community lives on in Cherokee County…