Clarence Blalock

[{"question": "Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner", "answer_html": "<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>", "answer_text": ""}, {"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Clarence Blalock completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" id=\"heading-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI’m an eighth generation Georgian, small business owner, and Paulding County resident. I also have 10 years experience in local government, including 5 years at the City of Smyrna in Cobb County. For the past several years I’ve been getting Democrats elected in tough races up and down the ballot. I know how to identify and turn out voters and I proved it by coming in 1st in a Democratic Congressional primary. \r\n<p>In 2024 I worked for the Democratic Party of Georgia’s Coordinated Campaign helping to elect local Democratic candidates statewide. I helped supply and maintain the field offices of the Metro Atlanta Area and worked at several rallies throughout the state.\r\n</p><p>In 2025 I was a campaign manager for Peter Hubbard and led him to first non-federal statewide win in 19 years. We crushed it with a massive 63-37 win over the republican incumbent.\r\n</p>\nThe Office of Insurance Commissioner needs an independent advocate. Unfortunately, two of the last four commissioners are currently in prison, this is the consequence of letting big insurance into this vital oversight role. I hope we don’t repeat that mistake in this primary.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" id=\"heading-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>I’ll use the existing tools and authority granted to the Insurance Commissioner to substantially increase fines so that it’s not profitable for insurance companies to violate the law.</li><li>I’ll refocus the attention of the office and intervene to ensure that your doctor is the one determining your healthcare, not insurance companies. Insurance companies have been blanket denying coverage for care, requiring doctors and patients to waste valuable time to appeal their decision. \r\nDoctors and patients are suffering so that insurance companies can make a few more dollars each financial quarter. It has to stop.</li><li>Create a public database of dropped policies and consumer complaints, because what gets measured gets fixed.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-414995-2026-05-02\" id=\"heading1-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-414995-2026-05-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-414995-2026-05-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tRefocusing the Office of Insurance to promote the public’s interest vs those of the insurance industry. <br/><br/>\r\nI believe I can be the consumers' advocate and help reduce the cost of their insurance while holding the industry fully accountable. John King has been the puppet of Big Insurance and this must change.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-414995-2026-05-02\" id=\"heading2-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-414995-2026-05-02\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-414995-2026-05-02\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-414995-2026-05-02\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tGeorgia State Representative Robert Dawson, South Fulton City Councilmember Linda Pritchett, Tom McMahon Vice Chair of the Democratic Rural Council\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nClarence Blalock completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I’m an eighth generation Georgian, small business owner, and Paulding County resident. I also have 10 years experience in local government, including 5 years at the City of Smyrna in Cobb County. For the past several years I’ve been getting Democrats elected in tough races up and down the ballot. I know how to identify and turn out voters and I proved it by coming in 1st in a Democratic Congressional primary. In 2024 I worked for the Democratic Party of Georgia’s Coordinated Campaign helping to elect local Democratic candidates statewide. I helped supply and maintain the field offices of the Metro Atlanta Area and worked at several rallies throughout the state. In 2025 I was a campaign manager for Peter Hubbard and led him to first non-federal statewide win in 19 years. We crushed it with a massive 63-37 win over the republican incumbent. The Office of Insurance Commissioner needs an independent advocate. Unfortunately, two of the last four commissioners are currently in prison, this is the consequence of letting big insurance into this vital oversight role. I hope we don’t repeat that mistake in this primary. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? I’ll use the existing tools and authority granted to the Insurance Commissioner to substantially increase fines so that it’s not profitable for insurance companies to violate the law. I’ll refocus the attention of the office and intervene to ensure that your doctor is the one determining your healthcare, not insurance companies. Insurance companies have been blanket denying coverage for care, requiring doctors and patients to waste valuable time to appeal their decision. \r\nDoctors and patients are suffering so that insurance companies can make a few more dollars each financial quarter. It has to stop. Create a public database of dropped policies and consumer complaints, because what gets measured gets fixed. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Refocusing the Office of Insurance to promote the public’s interest vs those of the insurance industry. I believe I can be the consumers' advocate and help reduce the cost of their insurance while holding the industry fully accountable. John King has been the puppet of Big Insurance and this must change. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Georgia State Representative Robert Dawson, South Fulton City Councilmember Linda Pritchett, Tom McMahon Vice Chair of the Democratic Rural Council\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}, {"question": "Labor Commissioner", "answer_html": "<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>", "answer_text": ""}, {"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<p>Clarence Blalock did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\nClarence Blalock did not complete Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey."}, {"question": "U.S. House Georgia District 14", "answer_html": "<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>", "answer_text": ""}, {"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<p>Clarence Blalock did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Clarence Blalock completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI'm running for US House District 14 to restore dignity and respect to the house and to serve it's constituents. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>The incumbent is a national disgrace and must be replaced.</li><li>I am the only experienced candidate running and can maximize the number democrats who will vote in November.</li><li>We are not doing enough for kitchen table issues currently and we need to get back to basics.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading1-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMaintaining and strengthening our democracy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading2-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tLincoln\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading3-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIntegrity and respect for the office.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading4-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTo be reasonable and accountable to the public.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading5-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tPaperboy, at age 11 and held it for a year.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-215878-2024-01-31\" id=\"heading6-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-215878-2024-01-31\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-215878-2024-01-31\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-215878-2024-01-31\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\nClarence Blalock did not complete Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey.\n\n\nClarence Blalock completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I'm running for US House District 14 to restore dignity and respect to the house and to serve it's constituents. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? The incumbent is a national disgrace and must be replaced. I am the only experienced candidate running and can maximize the number democrats who will vote in November. We are not doing enough for kitchen table issues currently and we need to get back to basics. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Maintaining and strengthening our democracy. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? Lincoln What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Integrity and respect for the office. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? To be reasonable and accountable to the public. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Paperboy, at age 11 and held it for a year. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Blalock’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p>MAGA Madness\n</p><p>I’m committed to be part of the democratic majority and breaking the seditious caucus known as MAGA. A cult like ideology that needs to be eliminated. With a strong democratic majority we can show people an alternative to strong man fantasies.\n</p><p>The Problem with Big Money in Politics\n</p><p>Special interests have run amok in Washington and aren’t helping us solve our biggest issues. Politicians like Marjorie Taylor Greene have no issue taking money from bigots and extremists. I haven’t taken any money from Corporate PAC and I won’t in the future.\n</p><p>Reproductive Freedom\n</p><p>Abortion rights are healthcare. We shouldn’t have ignorant politicians putting barriers between women and their doctors. I support a federal law that would overturn state mandates on abortion like we have in Georgia.\n</p><p>Small Business\n</p><p>Small Businesses are suffering in Northwest Georgia and MTG has done nothing about it. I’m a small business owner myself and operating through a complex web of regulation makes it harder. We should make it easier to connect small businesses with federal resources to not only exist but thrive.\n</p><p>Big Pharma\n</p><p>We must fight for lower prescription drug prices, big pharma has increased the price of vital medications for our seniors beyond a price they can afford and we can’t stand for this any longer. Most western nations put limits on the price of pharmaceuticals and we need to follow their lead.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_3-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-3\">[3]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—Clarence Blalock’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-4\"><a href=\"#cite_note-4\">[4]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Clarence Blalock completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have 10 years experience in the city government. I served as the Deputy Director of Planning in Forest Park and managed citizen concerns and came to mutual beneficial resolutions.\r\nI'm running on an environmental platform this year as it's a very underserved topic in city council races this year and it would be my legislative priority.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>The majority of this position is dealing with citizen/constituent concerns and I have experience dealing with public.</li><li>Maintaining and expanding our tree cover is key in mitigating the effects of climate change at the local level.</li><li>This is a position of service, I am out here fighting for the common man in Atlanta and we need a truly representative council.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div style=\"margin: 10px 0 0 10px\"><a class=\"communitylink\" href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project:_Published_community_questions,_2021\" style=\"font-size: 12px;\" target=\"_blank\">Community Question</a><span style=\"font-style:italic; font-size: 12px;\"> Featured local question</span></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading1-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow important is it to involve residents in the government’s decision-making process? What plans do you have regarding resident involvement in this process?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWe should look at more bottom up ideas from residents than top down answers. The people of Atlanta have amazing experience and insights into what we can do to make Atlanta a better city. We should severely limit the impact of corporate and out of town organizations in our government.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div style=\"margin: 10px 0 0 10px\"><a class=\"communitylink\" href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project:_Published_community_questions,_2021\" style=\"font-size: 12px;\" target=\"_blank\">Community Question</a><span style=\"font-style:italic; font-size: 12px;\"> Featured local question</span></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading2-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow would you address crime and public safety? Do you have a different stance than current city council policy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe next mayor will focus on getting us to the recommended level of policing, but I would like to focus on the root causes of crime which are a lack of resources and opportunity.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div style=\"margin: 10px 0 0 10px\"><a class=\"communitylink\" href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project:_Published_community_questions,_2021\" style=\"font-size: 12px;\" target=\"_blank\">Community Question</a><span style=\"font-style:italic; font-size: 12px;\"> Featured local question</span></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading3-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on the decriminalization of marijuana in Atlanta?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tDecriminalization of marijuana can free up resources for more pressing matters, therefore I am for it.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div style=\"margin: 10px 0 0 10px\"><a class=\"communitylink\" href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project:_Published_community_questions,_2021\" style=\"font-size: 12px;\" target=\"_blank\">Community Question</a><span style=\"font-style:italic; font-size: 12px;\"> Featured local question</span></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading4-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you think about the transit options currently available in Atlanta? Would you make any changes?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWe need better public transit options and we're making progress. I would like to look at data and make recommendations on upcoming proposals like bus rapid transit and an expanded streetcar to make sure they are effective.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div style=\"margin: 10px 0 0 10px\"><a class=\"communitylink\" href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project:_Published_community_questions,_2021\" style=\"font-size: 12px;\" target=\"_blank\">Community Question</a><span style=\"font-style:italic; font-size: 12px;\"> Featured local question</span></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading5-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat plans do you have regarding infrastructure?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would like to look at 1 cent SPLOST for sidewalks and stormwater infrastructure. We also need to make sure we aren't leaving federal or state money on the table for improvements, because that has been a issue in Atlanta.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading6-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI want to implement a social impact bond simliar to what implemented years ago in the City of Denver. It's an innovative idea and has independent assessments of it's progress over time.<br/>\r\nWe aren't looking at other cities successes and we're stuck in a 1990's mentality when dealing with the unhoused. We can judge a society by how it treats it's least fortunate members.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading7-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAbraham Lincoln, he led this nation during the civil war and if a weaker man was president at the time, our union may have not survived. He had a clarity of purpose, passion, and sense of justice that should be inspiration to us all.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading8-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tBeing transparent and ethical are the most important traits for an elected official. It's also important to be empathatic and work hard for the people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading9-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIf you do your best and leave this world in better shape than you found it, that is a legacy of success.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading10-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe Grammy Award Winning 1999 Hit Smooth By Santana Feat Rob Thomas Of Matchbox Twenty\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading11-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tAre there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe ability to console and comfort citizens. Having empathy and understanding of the concerns of the residents of your district is just as important as being smart.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading12-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe experience in city government will be very useful as background for the nitty gritty of public service and gives me the perspective of coming up with logical solutions to improve the process of city government in Atlanta.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-102744-2021-10-04\" id=\"heading13-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-102744-2021-10-04\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-102744-2021-10-04\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-102744-2021-10-04\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tA willingness to listen and learn from others, no one person has all the answers and it's important to realize your limitations and have an open mind.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p><p><i><b>Note:</b> Community Questions were submitted by the public and chosen for inclusion by a volunteer advisory board. The chosen questions were modified by staff to adhere to Ballotpedia’s neutrality standards. To learn more about Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection Expansion Project, click <a href=\"/Ballotpedia:Candidate_Connection_Expansion_Project_Advisory_Board\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "Blalock’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ MAGA Madness I’m committed to be part of the democratic majority and breaking the seditious caucus known as MAGA. A cult like ideology that needs to be eliminated. With a strong democratic majority we can show people an alternative to strong man fantasies. The Problem with Big Money in Politics Special interests have run amok in Washington and aren’t helping us solve our biggest issues. Politicians like Marjorie Taylor Greene have no issue taking money from bigots and extremists. I haven’t taken any money from Corporate PAC and I won’t in the future. Reproductive Freedom Abortion rights are healthcare. We shouldn’t have ignorant politicians putting barriers between women and their doctors. I support a federal law that would overturn state mandates on abortion like we have in Georgia. Small Business Small Businesses are suffering in Northwest Georgia and MTG has done nothing about it. I’m a small business owner myself and operating through a complex web of regulation makes it harder. We should make it easier to connect small businesses with federal resources to not only exist but thrive. Big Pharma We must fight for lower prescription drug prices, big pharma has increased the price of vital medications for our seniors beyond a price they can afford and we can’t stand for this any longer. Most western nations put limits on the price of pharmaceuticals and we need to follow their lead. [3] ” —Clarence Blalock’s campaign website (2024) [4]\n\n\nClarence Blalock completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Blalock's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I have 10 years experience in the city government. I served as the Deputy Director of Planning in Forest Park and managed citizen concerns and came to mutual beneficial resolutions.\r\nI'm running on an environmental platform this year as it's a very underserved topic in city council races this year and it would be my legislative priority. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? The majority of this position is dealing with citizen/constituent concerns and I have experience dealing with public. Maintaining and expanding our tree cover is key in mitigating the effects of climate change at the local level. This is a position of service, I am out here fighting for the common man in Atlanta and we need a truly representative council. Community Question Featured local question How important is it to involve residents in the government’s decision-making process? What plans do you have regarding resident involvement in this process? We should look at more bottom up ideas from residents than top down answers. The people of Atlanta have amazing experience and insights into what we can do to make Atlanta a better city. We should severely limit the impact of corporate and out of town organizations in our government. Community Question Featured local question How would you address crime and public safety? Do you have a different stance than current city council policy? The next mayor will focus on getting us to the recommended level of policing, but I would like to focus on the root causes of crime which are a lack of resources and opportunity. Community Question Featured local question What are your thoughts on the decriminalization of marijuana in Atlanta? Decriminalization of marijuana can free up resources for more pressing matters, therefore I am for it. Community Question Featured local question What do you think about the transit options currently available in Atlanta? Would you make any changes? We need better public transit options and we're making progress. I would like to look at data and make recommendations on upcoming proposals like bus rapid transit and an expanded streetcar to make sure they are effective. Community Question Featured local question What plans do you have regarding infrastructure? I would like to look at 1 cent SPLOST for sidewalks and stormwater infrastructure. We also need to make sure we aren't leaving federal or state money on the table for improvements, because that has been a issue in Atlanta. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I want to implement a social impact bond simliar to what implemented years ago in the City of Denver. It's an innovative idea and has independent assessments of it's progress over time. We aren't looking at other cities successes and we're stuck in a 1990's mentality when dealing with the unhoused. We can judge a society by how it treats it's least fortunate members. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Abraham Lincoln, he led this nation during the civil war and if a weaker man was president at the time, our union may have not survived. He had a clarity of purpose, passion, and sense of justice that should be inspiration to us all. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Being transparent and ethical are the most important traits for an elected official. It's also important to be empathatic and work hard for the people. What legacy would you like to leave? If you do your best and leave this world in better shape than you found it, that is a legacy of success. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? The Grammy Award Winning 1999 Hit Smooth By Santana Feat Rob Thomas Of Matchbox Twenty Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of? The ability to console and comfort citizens. Having empathy and understanding of the concerns of the residents of your district is just as important as being smart. Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics? I believe experience in city government will be very useful as background for the nitty gritty of public service and gives me the perspective of coming up with logical solutions to improve the process of city government in Atlanta. What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess? A willingness to listen and learn from others, no one person has all the answers and it's important to realize your limitations and have an open mind.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. 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