Growing up in a house divided, I understood political parties at a very young age. My father, Clarence Thweatt, was a die-hard Democrat. He was strongly devoted to the democrat party. My father taught my oldest daughter to say democrat at a very young age. He was so full of pride that he would boast his granddaughter around to all of his friends. She would tell them, "I'm granddad’s democrat."

My mother, Jeanette Edge Thweatt, was a very devout Republican. In fact, my

very first time to participate in an election, I voted for my Democrat Uncle John Henry Thweatt for DeKalb County Court Clerk and my Republican Uncle Kenny Edge for DeKalb County Road Supervisor.

Politics has run rich throughout my life. I taught United States History to eighth-

 graders for 18 years at Dekalb Middle School. My passion for teaching and developing independence of political views, with respect for the individual, was a top priority for me as a teacher. In fact, my political participation started with a comment from an eighth grade student stating, "Instead of complaining about it Mrs. Puckett, why you don’t do something about it?" Taking that statement to heart, I stepped up and I stepped out to make a difference. A difference for a county I am very passionate about.

I have represented the 5th district as county commissioner for the last six years.  I

am grateful for the support I have received in the past two elections from the 5th District. I hope to continue to receive that support in the future.

With that being said, I can no longer remain quiet. I know my history. I know that

the Democratic party today is not the democracy created by Andrew Jackson. With my faith in one nation under God, the Constitution, and my love for the United States of America, I can no longer stand behind the Democratic party of today. My spiritual faith and strong conservative values confirm my beliefs in this direction. I am not looking to the left or the right, but I chose to look forward. I Love DeKalb County! I am a lifelong native and have been blessed to raise my family here. Now, I am fortunate to see my grandchildren being raised here as well.

I can assure you that I will continue to represent Dekalb County in a fair and honest manner. Regardless of your political views, I respect each person for who they are not the party they represent. I can only ask the same in return.