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Senator Brian Strickland: From the Farm to the Fight for Georgia’s Future – Episode 54

Senator Brian Strickland: From the Farm to the Fight for Georgia’s Future – Episode 54

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 Welcome to The Town Square Podcast, where local advocates for a better Newton County bring their different perspectives to the messy middle. Our aim is unity, not uniformity. Hosted by Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey, The Town Square has become a space where tough conversations happen with respect, nuance, and a deep commitment to community.In this powerful episode, Trey sits down with Georgia Senator Brian Strickland (District 42), who has recently announced his candidacy for Attorney General of the State of Georgia in 2026. Their conversation dives deep into his upbringing, his legal career, his time in the Georgia General Assembly, his philosophy of service, and the vision he hopes to carry into the statewide office of Attorney General.This is not just a political interview. It’s a candid look at leadership, perseverance, faith, family, and the challenges of serving a diverse state in a polarized era.Growing Up in Georgia – From Farm Life to the LawSenator Strickland begins by sharing the story of his roots. Raised in Henry County, he comes from a long line of farmers. In fact, his father is still farming today. Brian recalls the defining moment in his teenage years when Henry County government sought to take land from his family to build a high school. Watching his father and uncle navigate that eminent domain battle introduced him to the legal system for the first time.Although the family ultimately lost the land, the experience left a mark. Strickland describes watching the jury trial and realizing just how powerful – and intimidating – the law could be for everyday Georgians. That experience planted the seed for him to pursue a career in law, becoming the first in his family not to follow farming, but instead to follow justice.Entering Public Service – From the House to the SenateStrickland was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2013, representing a district that leaned Democratic. As a Republican, he faced tough reelections, but he emphasizes that his victories were not because he compromised his values but because he worked hard, listened to people, and stayed connected to his constituents.In 2018, he transitioned to the State Senate, where his current District 42 includes most of Newton County, all of Morgan County, parts of Henry County, Walton County, and diverse communities stretching from urban areas to rural farmland. He describes it as a “light purple district” – a microcosm of Georgia itself.That diversity has shaped him. He’s had to listen across political lines, find compromise, and lead through the messy middle. He argues that this makes him uniquely positioned to run statewide in 2026.Why Attorney General?Strickland’s announcement to run for Attorney General in 2026 is rooted in his belief that the office should be a working office, not a political stepping stone.The Attorney General is Georgia’s lawyer. The role involves representing the people in cases against organized crime, human trafficking, Medicaid fraud, and consumer protection issues. It also involves advising state agencies, ensuring government accountability, and defending Georgia’s sovereignty in federal disputes.“I want to restore faith in the legal process,” Strickland says. “Too many people feel the justice system is weaponized for politics. As Attorney General, I won’t play politics. I’ll get up every day and fight for everyday Georgians, no matter how they voted.”Family, Faith, and PerspectiveThe Senator also opens up about life outside politics. Married with two young sons, Strickland shares stories of family life – from soccer games and horse lessons to his son’s fascination with the courthouse snack machine. These anecdotes highlight the grounding influence of fatherhood and faith in his public service.“When you start thinking you’re all important, kids bring you back to earth,” he jokes.Tackling Major Legislation – Fentanyl, Tort Reform, and Law Enforcement SupportThe conversation shifts to legislative highlights from recent sessions:The FEAR Act (Fentanyl Eradication and Removal Act): Strickland supported legislation strengthening Georgia’s laws against fentanyl possession and distribution. Inspired by the Walters family, who lost their son to fentanyl poisoning, the Act makes even the smallest possession of fentanyl a felony. Strickland acknowledges the controversy but insists, “I’d rather my son face a criminal charge than have to bury him.”Tort Reform: Strickland chaired Judiciary Committee debates on Georgia’s civil justice system, balancing the needs of small businesses and insurers with the rights of individuals seeking justice. The legislation was contentious, but Strickland emphasizes the importance of compromise, transparency, and listening to all sides.Law Enforcement Benefits: Strickland championed a law ensuring that officers injured in the line of duty receive full pay during recovery, instead of the previous 66%. ...
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