As Georgians enter the Christmas season after a challenging year, State Senator Carden Summers reflected on the state’s economic performance. He noted that Georgia set a record $26 billion in business investment, broke export records, and welcomed the highest level of tourism in its history. Summers emphasized the resilience of Georgia’s economy despite federal instability and shutdowns.
According to the Georgia State Senate, Summers’ statement acknowledges the anxiety Georgians feel due to Washington’s longest shutdown in modern history. “They’re angry that Washington allowed the longest shutdown in modern history to drag on with little regard for families living paycheck to paycheck,” the statement said. Georgia’s conservative governance has been credited with maintaining a strong business climate despite federal economic instability.
Georgia’s record investments ranged from advanced manufacturing to innovation centers, showing growth across multiple economic sectors. Summers also noted ongoing challenges, saying that a period of broader economic uncertainty—driven by shifting global conditions, volatile markets, and inconsistent federal signals—continues to weigh on families, employers, and investors alike.
Senator Summers highlighted the rapid growth of data centers and artificial intelligence and their impact on Georgia’s energy grid. He emphasized that the state must embrace innovation while keeping energy markets competitive, reliable, and fair for residents. Rising demand, which could lead to higher costs or strained reliability, is a key focus of policy discussions as advanced technologies become more integrated into the local economy.
Looking ahead to 2026, Summers’ priorities include maintaining stable and competitive energy markets and supporting Georgian families so that conservation and economic growth can coexist. He emphasized that economic growth and conservation are complementary when guided by thoughtful leadership. This underscores his focus on policies that benefit both the state’s businesses and natural resources.
As per the Georgia State Senate, there's a palpable sense of hope in Summers's message, one that's rooted in the determination of Georgia's communities rather than federal intervention. "What gives me hope is not federal bureaucrats in Washington; it is Georgia," Summers said, recognizing the everyday efforts of Georgian families. As the year closes, the Senator extended holiday wishes, hoping for "moments of peace and rest after a year that has demanded so much from all of us."
