Welcome to Wednesday. It is still cold and Georgia is still grappling with elections issues and a spike in COVID-19 cases. Below are some of the things you need to know today.
Yesterday’s News:
- One of the biggest stories yesterday was Georgia election manager Gabriel Sterling’s impassioned plea to President Donald Trump, Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, and all republicans who were still supporting Trump’s claims of election fraud to stop before someone gets hurt. This came after an election worker was stalked by Trump supporters who threatened his life and the lives of his family members.
- As coronavirus cases in Georgia continue their upward trend, hospitals are beginning to feel the effects of the increase. They fear a holiday surge once cases developed over Thanksgiving reach the point of hospitalization.
- Georgia Elections Chief Brad Raffensperger wants the Spalding County elections director to resign after Election Day issues in that county. The Spalding elections director responded and does not appear to be considering resignation.
- Atlanta has put in a bid to be one of the host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That’s soccer if you’re not into it.
- A former Georgia deputy has been charged with assault after she fired her weapon and struck another deputy in the hand, according to the GBI.
Today:
Expect more news today about Georgia’s elections process and the Jan. 5 runoff election. Also, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp will be lighting the Christmas tree at the state capitol today at 1 p.m.
Weather:
Temperatures have been below freezing all morning in parts of North Georgia. Expect a high of 51 degrees today before temperatures dip back down into the basement in the overnight hours. There is a 5% chance of rain overnight.
Coronavirus Update:
Georgia reported a total of 5,023 new coronavirus cases yesterday. 2,892 of those are confirmed cases and 2,131 come from rapid tests. The state reported 23 coronavirus deaths yesterday and 239 more people were hospitalized.
Other News:
- Kwanza Hall won the election yesterday to fill John Lewis’ seat for the monthlong remainder of his term.
- Augusta’s fire chief is resigning after coming under fire himself for the department’s morale woes.
- These eight counties are at high risk of COVID-19 spread according to health officials.
