Episode Details

In this December 27, 2009 episode, David, Tim, and Catherine open with light holiday chatter before diving into a surprisingly active week in Southern politics. The central story is Karen Handel’s decision to resign as Georgia Secretary of State to run full-time for governor. All three hosts view the move as bold and strategically smart: it frees her from fundraising restrictions, allows statewide campaigning, and prevents her from retreating if polls sour. They also note it benefits Governor Sonny Perdue, who can now appoint her successor—possibly positioning that appointee for a strong run. Discussion turns to potential candidates such as Brian Kemp, Doug McGinty, and Jeff Lewis, though none seem to be Perdue favorites. The panel also weighs whether Handel resembles Sarah Palin in leaving an unfinished term, though David argues Handel is more capable and the criticism likely overblown.

 The hosts then assess the crowded Republican gubernatorial field—John Oxendine, Nathan Deal, Eric Johnson, and Austin Scott—while noting stability on the Democratic side with Roy Barnes and Thurbert Baker.

 Shifting to Alabama, they dissect Congressman Parker Griffith’s surprise switch from Democrat to Republican. Given his conservative voting record and McCain-leaning district, the panel isn’t shocked, but they criticize the opportunism. They explore potential Democratic challengers—Susan Parker, Ron Sparks, and Deborah Bell Paseur—and question whether Republicans themselves will trust a party switcher over long-time Republican Mo Brooks, already signaling a primary challenge.

They close with light “year-end awards,” including Catherine’s playful jab at David Poythress for his relentless attacks on Barnes.