David’s style has always been team building and doing what is right. I have no doubt that will continue as Georgia House Speaker.

The dismantling of the Hawks, which David pledged to do last year when he ran for Speaker and will do this year if he wins, is a sign that he will not hold grudges.

Removing the Hawks is a clear signal that he intends to level the playing field. To do that and to be a successful Speaker he needs allies, not enemies.

I think we have a better chance at moving forward with him than with O’Neal.

Ralston’s letter shows a leadership style has been missing under the Gold Dome for at least 40 years. A welcome change should the caucus afford him the opportunity.

It was settled either way, though.

Dear Friends:

As you make your final decision for Speaker, I know that many issues weigh heavily on your mind. Personally, professionally, politically. Those of us asking for your vote in Thursday’s caucus elections must understand this reality.

Some of you have asked about and others may have wanted to ask about my previous “tax” issue. Although this was a painful and embarrassing event for my family and me, you have the right to know and to be informed by me.

As was widely reported some years back, I did have an income tax delinquency status with both the State of Georgia and the Internal Revenue Service.

From 1999 until the summer of 2003, I employed an individual in my office in whom I had trust and who was responsible for managing our finances, both receipts and the payment of all obligations. In the summer of 2003, I learned that this employee was not only grossly mismanaging my finances, but was engaged in a pattern of embezzlement and theft.

When I discovered this information, I had my finances thoroughly examined by both a forensic accountant and investigators for the Appalachian Circuit District Attorney’s office. Criminal charges were brought against this individual, and she was subsequently indicted by a grand jury. Later, she entered a guilty plea to this felony and admitted the charges.

However, I had to deal with the financial mess left behind: not only diverted funds, but unpaid obligations, including tax payments.

It was a big challenge and, being a public servant, it was a challenge I had to deal with publicly.

However, through hard work, perseverance and an understanding of its seriousness, we made it. The entire obligation has been fully paid and remains current.

I hope this information is helpful to you, not only in your decision making but also as your colleague in the House. If you have any further questions, please call me. You have my cell phone number. Or, you may call District Attorney Joe Hendricks at 706-635-5381.

David Ralston