Democratic gubernatorial candidate Michael Thurmond was in Columbus spreading a message of hope ahead of his keynote address at the NAACP’s annual Freedom Fund Banquet. Thurmond stopped by the local state delegation’s town hall meeting where we caught up with him.
“These are difficult times, but these are not hopeless times,” Thurmond said. “I’m encouraging all of our members of the NAACP, the community to keep up the fight, to be able to have the courage and determination to continue to fight for rights of all Americans, all citizens. These are difficult times, but these are not hopeless times.”
Thurmond said today’s issues facing Georgians are not a black or white thing. “First of all, extending healthcare to all of our citizens that’s not a black thing or a white thing, it’s the right thing. Feeding children who are facing food insecurity is not a black thing, a white, Hispanic or Asian thing, it’s the right thing.”
In today’s divisive political climate, Thurmond said he’s willing to be the bridge. “I’m convinced that a majority of Georgians of all races, colors and creeds and political persuasions will stand up for what is right. Sometimes in order to build a bridge you have to be the bridge and I’m willing to be that bridge.”
If elected Thurmond said he would “absolutely” expand Medicaid. “I believe that there are Republicans who would join with Democrats under the right scenario to expand Medicaid in the state. It’s a disgrace that people are getting sick and possibly dying because of the lack of access to affordable healthcare. We will change that as your next governor.”
