In a recent turn of events, former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms applauded the U.S. Court of International Trade’s decision to halt tariffs initiated by then-President Donald Trump. Bottoms framed the ruling as a much-needed respite for Georgia’s economy, highlighting the critical support it provides to businesses ranging from small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies. “This decision is a welcome temporary relief for Georgia businesses from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies,” Bottoms stated, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. She criticized current state leadership's inaction and voiced her commitment to opposing policies that could hurt local commerce.
Trump’s tariff policy, which has been under legal fire by a coalition of small businesses and 12 states excluding Georgia, was deemed an overreach by the court. The tariffs, intended to address U.S. trade deficits, were found to lack a legal basis for the declaration of a national emergency used to justify their imposition. As the gubernatorial race heats up, Bottoms aims to position herself as an economic guardian, ready to shield Georgia's trade interests from the volatility of Washington politics.
The former mayor, now 55, has officially declared her bid for governor, pitching her executive experience and her vision for Georgia's future. In a statement obtained by The Associated Press, Bottoms expressed her dedication to fighting for the state. “I’m running to be a fighter for Georgia,” she said, her campaign eyeing everything from Medicaid expansion to enhancing career training pathways. She steps into the Democratic fray alongside State Sen. Jason Esteves and potentially faces competition from GOP figures such as Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.
Her tenure as Atlanta's mayor was marked by multiple crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest following high-profile cases of police violence. Despite these challenges, Bottoms remained resolute, touting her administration’s achievements in public safety. She refutes concerns of being associated with an “unpopular Biden,” citing her strong record and leadership during tumultuous periods, according to The Associated Press. Especially noteworthy was her role on the night of the protests following George Floyd's death, where she joined forces with Atlanta-based hip-hop artists Killer Mike and T.I. to urge protesters to depart from the streets.
