RINCON — With the echoes of a bitter campaign season still in the air, Rep. Jon Burns offered a contrasting tone during Legislative Eggs & Issues 2018.

Burns, who appeared with Sen. Jack Hill and Rep. Bill Hitchens, read from a script while delivering his opening remarks at the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event at Effingham College & Career Academy on Dec. 5

"I'm sure you all are like me and are glad that this election season is over," Burns said. "And even though I am personally and politically satisfied with the outcome of the statewide races, the divisive rhetoric we have listened to — and misinformation on both sides — has characterized most of our campaign season and certainly disappointed me. You know, I don't believe any Georgian wins when we allow our political differences to overcome all that unites us.

"As Georgians, as Americans, we all agree, I believe, that we must work together to leave this state just a little better than we found it."

Burns encouraged the audience to keep the traits of President George H.W. Bush in mind. Bush, who died Nov. 30 at the age of 94, was hailed around the globe for being a consensus-building statesman during a series of memorials.

"I think we should learn from and follow the example that President Bush set for us — of always, always doing what's best for our country no matter your personal feelings," Burns said. "I also believe we must be ready to move on — no matter your disappointment or your principal agenda may have been — to do what's best for the whole country and all of mankind."

Burns said he is looking forward to working with Gov.-elect Brian Kemp, a fellow Republican who earned a narrow win over Democrat Stacy Abrams.

"I think we will all work together under the governor's leadership — Democrats and Republicans alike," Burns said.

See the Dec. 12 edition of the Effingham Herald for more details.