SAVANNAH -- Republican challengers for Democrat John Barrow's seat were critical of the 12th District congressman during a forum Tuesday.
Carl Smith repeatedly blamed Barrow for what he called "lack of leadership."
Mike Horner called for solutions to a runaway national problem he said menaces America's future.
George Grady said illegal immigration is behind many major national woes.
And Jeanne Seaver didn't show up, saying candidates shouldn't debate before qualifying, which starts April 26.
So it went Tuesday at the first forum for Republican candidates in Barrow's congressional district, which includes a large portion of the Augusta region.
Each participating candidate raised other issues but laid out a theme he'll likely repeat as the campaign unfolds.
The winner of the July 20 GOP primary election - or a runoff, if needed - will face the Democratic nominee in the Nov. 9 general election. So far, Barrow has one Democratic foe - former state Sen. Regina Thomas.
Well what they are supposed to do? Endorse him? There would be little point to running against him if that were the case....
And if Carl was already in office and a dem was running against him he would say the same thing about him "lack of leadership". GO FIGURE.
I hope Rep Barrows goes to the Alzheimer's Night to Remember wine tasting in April, again. Last year, while informally chatting with John, I realized he is a very intelligent, positive person. If I lived in his district, he would get my vote.
If Barrow's district didn't cover Savannah, he wouldn't be in office. The artsy liberals flock to the area and they like Barrow. He's too liberal for me, but his seat is safe.
I think it will be very, very close...Barrow may be swept out with the rest of the Dems.
Why are they fighting? He is one of them according to the way he voted on healthcare and a few other bills. I am a democrat, but I would rather cut my hand off before I will use it to vote for this closet republican.
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