In Georgia, a local Republican leader, Jackie Harling, still views Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene as a strong advocate, despite President Trump’s criticism. Harling said Greene voiced what many Republicans were thinking.
Greene is stepping down from Congress, halfway through her third term. She initially gained attention for her strong opinions and support of President Trump. However, she later disagreed with Trump, particularly on foreign policy and the release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. This disagreement led to Trump suggesting he would support a challenger against her.
Some voters, like Heath Patterson, feel Greene’s actions didn’t benefit the district. Others, like Harling, appreciated her strong voice.
Greene’s political journey mirrored Trump’s rise. She became involved in politics during Trump’s 2016 campaign and was a vocal supporter. Her district in Georgia is heavily Republican, a shift from its past support for Democrats.
Jan Pourquoi, a local official, noted that residents feel left behind as the country changes. He said they see themselves as “great Americans, proud Americans, Christian Americans” and feel “culturally oppressed”. Greene, in his view, represented a pushback against these changes.
Despite disagreements between Trump and Greene, many Republicans still support Greene’s “America First” stance. Gavin Swafford, who worked on Greene’s campaign, called her an “accountability representative.” Lisa Adams, a party volunteer, praised Greene’s views on issues like transgenderism and abortion.
Some Republicans believe Greene could have achieved more. Star Black, who is running to replace Greene, wants to be a representative who listens and truly represents the district.
