NC Georgia News

Former U.S. Representative Doug Collins has assumed leadership of the Georgia chapter of the America First Policy Institute, a national think tank associated with former President Donald Trump. The move came as an effort to help influence state and local policies in line with the 'America First' ideals championed by Trump during his presidency.

The role Collins will be playing at the institute was clarified in a statement he gave recently. According to a report by Access WDUN, Collins stated: "At a time when our communities value safety, opportunity, and freedom more than ever before, the commitment of the America First Policy Institute to Georgia demonstrates a determination few entities are willing to consider these days. As we look to better the lives of all Georgians, I’m honored to be able to use my unique perspective as a lawyer, pastor, former Congressional member, and veteran to help the Institute and state move forward."

To understand what this means in practical terms, it's important to delve into what the America First Policy Institute aims for within its scope. According to the America First Policy Insitute, the institute aims to prioritize education, sustain American values, enhance public safety measures, increase work opportunities and strengthen rural communities in Georgia. These encompass initiatives ranging from expanding school choice and addressing learning loss to focusing on family support, backing law enforcement and holding criminals accountable supporting robust America-first economic policies and reaching out to community by public events.

Collins' political career holds substantial weight when considering his new position's responsibilities. According to Ballotpedia, Doug Collins - a Republican - served as a member of the U.S. House for Georgia's 9th Congressional District from January 3rd 2013 until January 3rd 2021. He later ran in a special election for the U.S. Senate but lost in the special general election on November 3rd, 2020. Prior to his tenure in the U.S. House, Collins was initially elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2006 before securing his position in the U.S. House in 2012.

It's notable that Collins is not alone; other former Trump administration figures are also associated with the America First Policy Institute. According to Yahoo News, Brooke Rollins, who served as a domestic policy adviser in the Trump White House, leads the America First Policy Insitute.

Collins' alignment with President Trump and 'America First' ideals have been apparent through his political career. According to Yahoo News, Collins became widely recognized for his support of President Trump during the 2019 impeachment inquiry.