If Ms. Abrams’s first campaign for governor for Georgia in 2018 earned her the reputation as a fierce political tactician — the strategist who changed the state’s politics, and helped elect President Biden and flip Senate control to the Democrats — her second exposed the limits of her skills as a political candidate, especially in the intensely competitive and demanding environment of Georgia.
In interviews, community leaders, campaign aides, state lawmakers and other allies describe Ms. Abrams, 48, as a visionary sometimes distracted by her obvious national ambitions and a personality more at home explaining intricate policy than engaging in the glad-handing and rope-line hugs.
The portrait they paint helps answer the question: How does a politician who a few years ago was described as a once-in-a-generation star, and has become a record-breaking fund-raiser and liberal darling, keep coming up short in her home state? …
It did not take long for some Democrats to start complaining that Ms. Abrams was neglecting the people who powered her rise.
David Brand, a veteran Atlanta Democratic strategist, said he offered in December to help the Abrams campaign build its network with local Black business owners and civic organizations. With their candidate still operating under pandemic precautions, the gatherings were virtual and short-lived.
“She’s having Zoom meetings with Black businesspeople,” Mr. Brand said. “Brian Kemp’s having cocktails with them.”
[Abrams was busy having cocktails with Hollywood limousine liberals and making fantasy appearances on Star Trek as the “United Earth President.” Kemp was busy taking care of business. This ain’t brain surgery, people — she’s just a lousy candidate, in the same way Beto O’Rourke is. — Ed]
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