Buddy Carter blames Iran conflict for higher gas prices, defends Trump in Senate bid

by Tim Darnell

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., said he believes voters are focused primarily on public safety and the economy as he campaigns in his first statewide race for U.S. Senate.

In an interview, Carter echoed President Donald Trump’s recent description of the economy as “roaring,” while acknowledging that gas prices have risen. Carter blamed Democrats and said energy prices increased due to the conflict involving Iran, adding he expects prices to fall if the situation stabilizes.

Carter also pointed to a tax-cut package he said put more money in people’s pockets, citing provisions such as eliminating taxes on tips and overtime and increasing a child care tax credit. He said IRS data shows refunds are up this year.

Watch the full interview below:

With early voting underway ahead of the Republican primary, Carter urged voters to support him as the party’s best chance to defeat incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff in November. Carter criticized Ossoff’s voting record on homeland security funding and Israel, arguing those positions are out of step with Georgia.

Carter also took aim at his primary opponents, arguing that controversies or political vulnerabilities would distract from focusing on Ossoff in a general election campaign.

On The Record is a weekly political show hosted by Atlanta News First anchor Rick Folbaum and political reporter Doug Reardon. It airs every Sunday at 11 a.m. on Atlanta News First.

The program, which can also be seen on Atlanta News First’s website and all of its streaming and podcasting platforms, features extensive interviews with Atlanta’s and Georgia’s most influential political leaders, newsmakers and analysts.

More headlines

Georgia tax rebates should be arriving in your accounts soon

The Georgia Department of Revenue is starting to send out payments from the state's $1.2 billion tax rebate.

Justice Department can keep 2020 election ballots seized from Fulton County, judge rules

Justice Department wants the names of Fulton County’s 2020 election workers

Fulton County is seeking to block a subpoena from the Justice Department demanding the names of the county's 2020 election workers.

Sweeping early literacy bill signed into law | Here’s what it will do

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a sweeping education bill aimed at boosting literacy rates in the Peach State.

Qualifying dates set for special election to fill late David Scott’s congressional seat

Former president endorses Keisha Lance Bottoms in Georgia Democratic primary

Remembering Ted Turner | Full coverage

Ted Turner, who forever changed the way America and the world watched television and consumed the news, died this week.

Ted Turner, who founded CNN, died, the network said Wednesday, citing a news release from Turner Enterprises.

Atlanta News First and Atlanta News First+ provide you with the latest news, headlines and insights as Georgia continues its role at the forefront of the nation’s political scene. Download our Atlanta News First app for the latest political news and information.

Atlanta News First podcasts are available now on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube