Tag: Johnny Isakson

The Atlanta Braves franchise is wading into the race for Georgia governor by hosting a high-dollar fundraiser this month for Republican Brian Kemp, though the team said it expects to also chip into Democrat Stacey Abrams’ campaign. The event cost donors $13,200 to host and $1,000 to attend. Braves spokeswoman Beth Marshall said the franchise often donates to candidates from both parties, and noted it gave $1,000 to Abrams in 2015 and 2016 during her state House runs. She said the team’s donation does not amount to “taking a political stance for either gubernatorial candidate.” Marshall added: “As of today, we have yet to be contacted to support Abrams’ campaign, but are expecting to do so.” The Atlanta Braves are one of the better politically-connected businesses in Georgia, and the team regularly hosts powerful politicians, including a recent event held by the Republican Governors Association. It donated $2,500 to Gov. The team did not appear to give to either Democratic candidate in those contests. The franchise was also an early supporter of Lt. Gov. It gave four separate donations to Cagle over the last year totaling $11,000. The Braves were far from alone in that respect. Other hosts of the event include former U.S. Rep. Bob Barr, outgoing state Rep. Earl Ehrhart, Cobb District Attorney Vic Reynolds and other Cobb County GOP movers and shakers.