RINCON -- Secretary of State Brian Kemp and a bevy of Republicans stopped by Effingham College & Career Academy on Friday as part of a whirlwind bus tour of the state in search of votes in advance of Tuesday's election.
After receiving a standing ovation, Kemp, running for governor, reminded the large crowd of the chasm of differences between him and his main opponent, Democrat Stacey Abrams.
"We are in a fight for the soul of our state," he said. "Elections are about ideas, they are issues and they are about vision, and the contrast in the directions in this campaign have never been greater than they are right now.
"This is is the most important election that Georgia families have ever seen. There is more at stake, I believe, than ever before because of contrasts are so great."
Kemp said he and his family are working virtually around the clock to whip up Republican turnout.
"It's that important. It's bigger than us. It's bigger than our family," he said. "This is about our state. This is about all the families in the state of Georgia."
Kemp accused Abrams of running a dishonest campaign.
"... There is a reason for that. She is trying to hide her extreme agenda," Kemp said.
Kemp said Abrams wants to impose higher taxes on Georgians and wants government to have a greater role in everyday life. He warned that her goal of expanding Medicaid would result in "a radical takeover of health care" and explosive costs.
"Don't be fooled by the television commercial ...," Kemp said.
Kemp also attacked Abrams for her plan to provide "taxpayer benefits, welfare and free college for those that are here illegally."
"That will bankrupt the system," Kemp said. "That will not save it for our kids and grandkids for decades to come, which is what we will do."
Kemp said voters can "end this craziness."
The candidate vowed to provide raises for Georgia's teachers, cut the state income tax for the second straight year, lower health care costs while expanding choices, make schools safer and protect gun rights.
Kemp was joined on the tour by Sen. David Perdue, U.S. Reps. Buddy Carter and Rick Allen. Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black, Commissioner of Labor Mark Butler, State School Superintendent Richard Wood, Georgia Department of Transportation Board Chairman Ann Purcell, state Sen. Jack Hill and state Reps. Jon Burns and Bill Hitchens were also on hand.
