State Sen. Blake Tillery kicks off lieutenant governor bid with statewide tour

Tillery is now the third Republican who's entered the race, joining State Sens. John F. Kennedy (R-Macon) and Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega). State Sen. Josh McLaurin (D-Sandy Springs) is currently the only Democratic candidate.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Today, Georgia State Sen. Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia) announced his campaign for lieutenant governor in a tour across the state.

Tillery has represented District 19 in the State Senate since he was first elected in 2016. He spoke to supporters alongside his wife at the Perry-Houston County Airport, one of his seven campaign stops on the day.

“Me and Ashlee Nicole raise our two boys here,” Tillery said. “We want them to be able to raise our children here too.” 

Now eyeing the state’s number two leadership position, he reminded supporters of his efforts to outlaw what he calls DEI and woke mandates. Tillery introduced a bill earlier this year to increase penalties on sanctuary cities, and says he’ll continue the fight against illegal immigration. He also brought forth legislation to end taxpayer support for gender-affirming care.

“I’m going to ask you to judge me on what I’ve done,” Tillery said. “And I hope that that wins your support for the future.” 

Along with public safety, Tillery said his main priority is the elimination of the state income tax. Tillery currently serves as chair of the Senate committee studying the possible elimination of the tax. He says it’s a matter of not if, but when.

“I think that’s a message to conservatives, it’s a message to a more liberal crowd, and it’s a message to moderates,” Tillery said. “They understand that they’re paying more at the pump. They’re paying more for groceries. They’re paying more for childcare. And if we can get them an automatic 5% raise in their pay, then Georgia should do that.”

Tillery says his campaign will look a lot like day one as he plans to hear from Georgians across the state and earn every vote.

“Every vote matters,” Tillery said. “Whether you live on I-75, I-85, 20, or 16, it’s a great big state. And I’m sure we’re going to burn up a couple of sets of tires crisscrossing.” 

Tillery is now the third Republican who’s entered the race for lieutenant governor, joining State Sens. John F. Kennedy (R-Macon) and Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega). State Sen. Josh McLaurin (D-Sandy Springs) is currently the only Democratic candidate.