Legislative coalitions make push from right

ATLANTA --- Just because Gov. Sonny Perdue proposed increases in taxes and fees, adding funds to mental health treatment and shielding education from cuts hitting most agencies doesn't mean conservative government has ended at the Capitol.

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Neither does a new speaker of the House nor a lieutenant governor who's no longer trying to win votes for a gubernatorial campaign.

Sure, those leaders have made a priority of passing a new sales tax for transportation -- including the mass transit those on the left have long sought. But there are platoons of conservatives in the Legislature and citizen activists tugging lawmakers to the right.

On Wednesday, a new group called the Conservative Leadership Coalition of Georgia held a news conference to announce its presence. The coalition includes traditional groups such as the Federation of Republican Women and the Heritage Foundation, along with new groups such as Americans for Prosperity, Conservative Grassroots Georgia and the Georgia Tea Party. Toss in a few talk-show hosts for spice.

"We are a group of conservative coalitions from around the state that have come together to support the Georgia General Assembly's fight for traditional, Republican values," said Andre O'Brien, an activist and motivational speaker.

In just three weeks, the coalition has begun regular meetings, the exchange of information and activation of its network of 30,000 followers throughout Georgia.

"We appreciate all you do to hold us accountable," said Senate President Pro Tem Tommie Williams, R-Lyons.

Tuesday morning meetings already draw legislators away from the floor of the House and Senate because the network can spur grass-roots support for bills the lawmakers pitch to them.

For example, Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers asked the coalition to back his legislation to expand private-school vouchers from handicapped children to include foster children and those of members of the military.

But conservatives in the House decided to form their own group, the Republican Study Committee. It is loosely formed, with no one holding a title as overall leader.

"We need this coalition of groups because we get a whole lot more contacts from people who oppose things than support things," said Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Cassville. "So when we have good, conservative legislation, we need your help to get the word out, and quite often we need your phone calls."