Members of Georgia's congressional delegation, including Sen. Kelly Loeffler, waded into the political conversation over the weekend.

Caption

Former Georgia U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler

Credit: JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP

Wednesday on Political Rewind, a busy week of Georgia politics.

Following a weekend of violence in Atlanta, Republicans have criticized Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.

Professor of political science at Emory University Andra Gillespie said the situation is being used as political fodder.

"We will wait and see how much of this is about performance and how much is about public safety," she said.

University of Georgia's Professor Audrey Haynes said the recent rhetoric and posturing from politicians was done with an eye ahead to the November elections, especially when it comes to public safety.

Professor Haynes said Republicans are mindful of the disagreement raging within their own party.

"There is some fear of a revolution within their party, and I don't think they want to see that conflict," Haynes said.

Meanwhile, Georgia universities are responding to the virus as planning for the upcoming semester takes shape. The University System of Georgia recently mandated face coverings for students, faculty and visitors after public protest over their lack of action on a mask requirement.

Panelists:

Audrey Haynes — Professor of Political Science, University of Georgia

Greg Bluestein — Politics Reporter, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Andra Gillespie — Professor of Political Science, Emory University