Thurmond campaigns in Demorest, focuses on cost-of-living concerns

DEMOREST, Ga. — Georgia gubernatorial candidate Michael Thurmond made a campaign stop in Demorest on Saturday, April 25, hosting a small rally and meet-and-greet with local residents and candidates.

The event included introductions from several local and regional candidates, along with remarks highlighting Thurmond’s background in state government, including time in the Legislature, as labor commissioner and as CEO of DeKalb County.

When Thurmond spoke, the setting shifted from formal remarks to a more conversational discussion. He stepped away from the podium, addressed the crowd directly, and took questions while responding to concerns raised by those in attendance.

Much of the discussion focused on cost-of-living issues, particularly housing, health care, insurance and child care. Thurmond pointed to what he described as a cycle many residents face, where financial strain in one area can affect others, including rising insurance costs tied to credit and medical debt.

“People are working twice as hard, but able to purchase half as much,” he said during the discussion.

Attendees asked questions about topics including minimum wage, insurance regulation, health care access and state spending. Thurmond responded by outlining potential approaches such as expanding existing state programs, increasing access to child care assistance and reviewing how certain taxes affect lower-income households.

The conversation also touched on broader statewide issues, including rural hospital access, infrastructure demands tied to growth and emergency response efforts in other parts of Georgia.

Thurmond acknowledged the importance of voter turnout in North Georgia, noting that increases in participation, even in traditionally low-turnout areas, can influence statewide elections.

During his visit, Thurmond also sat down with Now Georgia for an interview on its “Now We’re Talking” podcast. Reporter Hazel Cording conducted the interview, which focused on his campaign priorities and issues raised by voters in the region.

The Demorest stop was one of multiple appearances scheduled across the state that day as part of his campaign outreach.

For those who attended, the event offered a chance to hear directly from a candidate for governor and to raise questions about issues affecting their communities.