MEET SEN. HALPERN

It is my honor to represent you in the Georgia State Senate.

With a background that includes business and community service, I have seen firsthand the impact of bad public policy. Time and time again, I have found myself putting in the work around issues of access, equity and opportunity.

As your State Senator, I care deeply about making sure that everyone in my district and across the state of Georgia can have a better life.

Better education. Better healthcare access. Better economic opportunities.

In Georgia - a place with so much to offer and a history of setting powerful examples for the rest of the country - we can and must do better.

I am committed to finding real solutions to the problems we face. Thank you for trusting me to be your voice under the Gold Dome.

Senator Sonya Halpern
Georgia Senate District 39

The Latest from Sonya

When someone you care about is in crisis, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. That’s why 988 matters.

988 is a 24/7 suicide and crisis lifeline that is free, confidential, and answered right here in Georgia by trained professionals.

On this 988 Day, I’m asking you to share this number with someone in your circle. A text, a call, even a quick conversation could be the lifeline they need.

#988Day #EndTheStigma #GeorgiaStrong

Three years ago today, I lost my dad, James McLaughlin Jr. He embodied quiet strength, a love of learning, and an unshakable commitment to family. He built the foundation that prepared me for everything that came after, including this work I do now.

I spent time with my mom today, remembering not just his accomplishments, but the ordinary moments that made him extraordinary—board games after dinner, lessons around the table, and his constant presence. I am forever his daughter.

Georgia fought hard to land Hyundai’s $5.5B Metaplant—the biggest jobs deal in our state’s history. But last week, the federal government staged the largest immigration raid in U.S. history right there, detaining hundreds of workers.

Here’s the contradiction: we say we want companies to invest in America and bring manufacturing home. Yet raids like this send the opposite message—scaring off investors, stalling projects, and punishing workers instead of holding employers accountable.

If we want Georgia to win the clean-energy future, we need consistency, not contradictions.

Today, federal agents carried out the largest single-site immigration enforcement action in U.S. history—right here in Georgia. The raid at Hyundai’s new electric vehicle plant and the adjacent battery facility resulted in hundreds of detentions, many of them South Korean nationals working on the project.

This isn’t just any site. Hyundai and LG are investing billions of dollars in Georgia, bringing thousands of jobs and positioning our state at the center of America’s clean-energy future. Yet instead of fostering that progress, this action has created international tension and uncertainty for workers and communities.

At a time when we should be strengthening partnerships and building opportunities, this raid sends exactly the wrong message. Of all the ways to bring manufacturing back to the U.S., undermining trusted employers and their workforce is one of the worst.

What if Georgia was known—not just for peaches and football—but for having the most student-centered education system in the country?

Imagine schools where every kid is seen, heard, and known. Where teachers aren’t buried under bureaucracy but lifted up as the life-changers they are.

That’s the vision I’m fighting for. Not just better test scores—but better lives, better futures, better schools that reflect the brilliance of our kids.

We can do this. And I believe Georgia is ready.

#GASchools #education #EducationMatters

Long before I ever became a legislator, I was a proud union member with the American Federation of State, County, Municipal Employees (AFSCME) - Community and Social Agency Employees (CSAE). That experience shaped my belief in the dignity of work and the power of collective voice.

On this #LaborDay, I honor the hardworking men and women who keep Georgia’s communities thriving and our economy growing —and recommit to standing up for working families everywhere.

Happy Labor Day!

Republicans are too afraid of the NRA to level with you on what we need to do to curtail mass shootings. But I'm not afraid of anything except my babies —and yours -- getting shot at school. So here's what we need to do:

1. Ban assault-style weapons
2. Pass red flag laws
3. Implement universal background checks (close the loopholes)
4. Invest more in mental healthcare

I'm shattered for these families in Minnesota tonight. And resolved to continue working for change.

When the wind shifts in Savannah, you can smell the paper mill. For me, it’s personal: it takes me back to memories of my PawPaw and the years he spent working at a mill in Bogalusa, Louisiana.

That’s why news of the Savannah and Riceboro plants closing hits hard. For the workers and families who built their lives around these mills, this is more than a headline — it’s their livelihood, their community, their way of life.

Georgia is the #1 state in forestry nationwide, and this industry is also one of our most innovative - from lumber and paper to new frontiers like sustainable aviation fuel.

I was proud to serve on the Senate Study Committee on Advancing Forestry Innovation because I believe in where this industry can go and in the people who make it strong. But even leading industries can change overnight. Workers deserve the chance to adapt, to transition, and to keep building stability for their families no matter how industries shift. Georgia’s strength has always been its people — and our future depends on making sure they thrive in every season of change.

Happy Birthday to my beautiful mother!

She is the woman who taught me the value of faith, resilience, kindness, and endless love for family.

So much of who I am is rooted in what she poured into me, and I am so grateful for her example, her life, and the joy she continues to bring into ours.

Loved celebrating her birthday with my sister and family by my side. Here’s to 83 years of love, and the hope for many more!

Back from the Georgia Chamber’s Annual Congressional Luncheon in Columbus. These gatherings can look like endless handshakes and hugs, but I see them as another chance to “be in the room” where it happens so I can make life better for Georgians.

The conversations weren’t just about big business; they were about how we keep Georgia competitive. We heard insights from members of our Congressional delegation including Senator Ossoff, Representatives Scott, Collins and Carter on a range of topics. And it was especially meaningful to see Shan Cooper honored with the Blanchard Award, reminding us that women’s leadership is driving Georgia forward too.

With AI and an uncertain tariff (tax on Georgians), it’s more important than ever that we future proof our state. We do this by connecting the dots today so opportunity lasts for tomorrow.

#FutureProofGA #EconomicOpportunity #GeorgiaChamber

Lights, creativity, action! Earlier this week I joined the grand opening of the new Georgia Film Academy campus at Assembly Studios in Doraville.

This campus is about more than films—it’s a hub for training Georgians in content creation, esports, streaming, and production crafts, while building the skilled workforce that will keep drawing filmmakers and creators to our state.

Our creative economy and workforce development go hand-in-hand. I introduced the Georgia Music Office & Music Ready Communities Act to grow our incredible music industry, invest in local talent, and help communities turn creativity into lasting opportunity.

Georgia’s creative economy is on the rise and I’m excited to help build the infrastructure to future proof GA for the next generation of talent and jobs.
#CreativeEconomy #WorkforceDevelopment #MadeInGeorgia #FutureProofGA

The Making Georgia the #1 State for Tourism study committee convened its inaugural meeting yesterday in Gainesville—with over 125 stakeholders in attendance, all deeply invested in boosting the state’s second-largest industry behind agriculture. Tourism is an incredible economic engine - generating nearly $80 billion in economic impact.

Sitting squarely at the intersection of economic development and cultural vitality, this committee is poised to help Georgia capitalize on its immense potential, including strategies to strengthen marketing, exploring public–private partnerships, and ensuring rural communities also reap the benefits.

I’m honored to contribute to this effort.

UPDATE: The shelter in place has been lifted. Grateful to law enforcement for once again running into danger for our protection, and praying for the officer and all others who have reportedly been shot and taken to the hospital for critical care. These incidents are happening far too often, including just earlier this week at Fort Stewart. It’s a sobering reminder of the urgent need to address the gun violence affecting our communities. ————————————————————————-My heart is in my throat. My son and his teammates are sheltering in place after reports of a shooting near Emory. I’m praying for their safety, for the safety of the entire community, and for an end to this kind of violence.

If you have anyone in/near campus, please urge them to follow the shelter in place order. Please avoid the area if you are not already there.

It’s that time of year again! And in our house, it means three alarm clocks, three schedules, and three very different backpacks.

One’s in college. One’s a senior in high school. And one is still learning her multiplication tables.

This week, I’m thinking about every parent trying to get a kid out the door on time, every teacher setting up a classroom, and every student walking into a new year full of questions, hopes, and hidden brilliance.

Let’s have their backs. Let’s root for each other. Let’s make it a great year, Georgia.

#GeorgiaSchools #BackToSchool

I'm horrified by the news coming out of Fort Stewart today. I understand the lockdown has been lifted and that five soldiers have been shot. It is unclear at the moment about casualties but what we are clear about is that this community will never again be the same. We thank our first responders and we pray for the families. May we all turn our thoughts to Fort Stewart and be prepared to support them in the days and months to come.

Last week’s “Take One” event with @georgia_entertainment_news was a reminder of what’s possible when Georgia’s creative and business minds come together with purpose.

I was proud to join studio heads, post-production experts, financiers, legal leaders, and fellow policymakers at the Buckhead Club for a deep dive into Georgia’s film tax credit - not just the numbers, but how they fuel the behind-the-scenes talent that keeps this industry moving: accountants, producers, VFX teams, and others who make Georgia’s storytelling infrastructure real.

As the Senate sponsor of the Georgia Music Office bill, I know this work is about more than entertainment. It’s about jobs, growth, and opportunity. Georgia isn’t just showing up in this space. We’re leading. And there is still more we can do.

Grateful to the organizers Randy Davidson, Senator Matt Brass, and everyone who made this first Take One event one to build on.

#GeorgiaFilm #CreativeEconomy #PolicyToProduction #BetterDaysAhead

Cowboy Carter rides into Atlanta! Thursday night, Beyoncé—as always—brought the fire, but the women I rolled with brought the force. Happy to host a group of powerhouse women friends from around the region to see Queen Bey do her thing, so many of whom are the first to do what they are doing.

Nothing beats a night that celebrates freedom, pushes boundaries, and uplifts culture. 👑✨

“America is never finished. It is always in the process of being made, and remade.” — James Baldwin

On this Fourth of July, we celebrate the promise of America—the bold idea that freedom, dignity, and opportunity belong to all of us.

But patriotism isn’t just fireworks and flags. It’s also the courage to tell the truth about where we fall short—and to act.

Yesterday, Congress passed a bill that is expected to make life harder for American families, including far too many here in Georgia. Stripping away support. Shrinking opportunity. Choosing politics over people.

This holiday isn’t just a celebration of our founding. It’s a call to keep building the kind of country our ancestors dreamed of and our children deserve.

It’s a reminder that our democracy isn’t self-correcting—we have to show up to shape it.

Because America’s still becoming. And Georgia deserves better. 🇺🇸

Happy Father’s Day to the men who lead with love, protect with quiet strength, and show up—in big and small ways—for their families and communities. I was fortunate to have a phenomenal dad and I miss him every day.

So here’s to all the dads, stepdads, father figures, and mentors—your presence matters more than words can say.

No matter the adventure, I am grateful that my husband, Daniel, is there to love and encourage our children.

Wishing all a special day with their families!

I’ve always believed real change starts when you show up in rooms you’re least expected in - and make the decision to not shrink once you’re in there.

That kind of presence isn’t just powerful, it’s disruptive. Because showing up across lines that were never designed for you to cross - or the ones you were taught to stay behind - challenges the very systems, silos, and false binaries we’ve inherited.

It doesn’t have to be policy vs. creativity, leadership vs. community, or innovation vs. culture. In fact, it never did.

That’s why I’m proud to be part of Beyond the Croisette, the flagship experience of Women and AI Futures at this year’s Cannes Lions Festival—and to bring with me the inaugural Better Futures Collective: civic, business, and cultural leaders from Georgia who represent the best of what the South has to offer.

Because the South has something to say. And I want Atlanta to show up - and show out - for this one.

The future isn’t a spectator sport. It’s a blueprint in progress and too consequential for us to just wait and see. It’s ours to shape—now.

The Better Futures Collective is about designing what’s next, together. It’s about bold ideas, unexpected collaboration, and building a future rooted in health, wealth, and self.

I believe in Better Days Ahead.

And I know they don’t just happen—we build them, together.

If you work in policy, business, culture, or community, I invite you to:
→ Join me in Cannes
→ Connect with the Women and AI Futures team
→ Or simply stay close—because we’re bringing it all back home.

#BetterFuturesCollective #BetterDaysAhead #WomenAndAIFutures #BeyondTheCroisette #CivicLeadership #TheSouthHasSomethingToSay #HealthWealthSelf #CannesLions2025 #AtlantaVoices #InclusiveInnovation #CatalystConnectorConvenerCommunity

On this Memorial Day, I just want to say thank you. Thank you to the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to this country. Because of you, we get to stand here in freedom—and that’s something I’ll never stop being grateful for.

This weekend, I attended the Memorial Day program at the Georgia National Cemetery—a breathtaking 770-acre resting place for our nation’s heroes, managed with care by the VA. I also spent quiet time with my own father, a proud veteran whose ashes were laid to rest there after his passing in 2022.

Memorial Day is not just a long weekend—
It is a day of reflection.
A day of gratitude.
A day of grief.

As we enjoy time with loved ones, may we pause to remember those military service members who never made it home - and the families whose lives were forever changed by that loss.

Freedom is never free. And today, we remember those who paid the price in full.

May we live in a way that honors their sacrifice.

Last night’s targeted killing of two young Israeli Embassy staff members outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington D.C. was an act of antisemitic terror. The victims, who were attending the American Jewish Committee’s Young Diplomats Reception, were a couple planning their engagement. Their attacker yelled “Free, free Palestine” while being apprehended by authorities.

There is no justification for hate-fueled violence. Since October 7, we have seen a sharp rise in antisemitic hate crimes. We cannot allow dangerous rhetoric to fester unchecked, nor can we normalize slogans that dehumanize Jews and Israelis. Words matter.

As co-chair of Georgia’s bipartisan Israel Legislative Caucus, I condemn this attack and the climate of hate that helped make it possible. We must stand firmly against antisemitism in all its forms—on our campuses, in our communities, and in our politics.

Happy Mother’s Day to my first inspiration, my mom.

She taught me strength through grace, resilience with compassion, and the power of speaking up for what’s right. Her love is something I can always rely on.

From her, I learned that true leadership starts at home, that empathy is the foundation of community, and that the greatest impact isn’t measured in accolades, but in the lives you’ve touched.

To all the incredible mothers, grandmothers, stepmoms and mother figures across Georgia and beyond—thank you for your tireless love, your sacrifices, and the way you hold our families and communities together. Today, we celebrate you.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you more than words can say.

True leadership isn’t just about checking boxes or reacting to challenges—it’s about reshaping what’s possible.

Earlier this week, I had the honor of hosting Governor Wes Moore in our home for the second time, and every conversation with him is a reminder of what visionary leadership looks like. He leads with purpose, designing systems that aren’t just built for the moment—but built to last.

His work is a powerful example of how leadership can be bold, intentional, and rooted in real solutions.

We can’t afford to keep doing things the same way and expect different results. If we’re going to solve the problems of today, we need leaders committed to pushing for better and challenging the status quo.

I’ve seen firsthand what’s possible when we lead with vision—when we listen deeply, act boldly, and bring people together to create real solutions. That’s the kind of leadership I’m committed to—and I know Governor Moore is too. Because if we’re serious about building a better future, we have to be relentless in our pursuit of bold ideas, transformative solutions, and the kind of collaboration that drives real change.

#Leadership #WesMoore #BetterDaysAhead #BoldLeadership #VisionaryThinking #CommunityFirst

As the Met Gala turns its spotlight on “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” I’m reminded that Black dandyism has always been more than fashion. It’s a declaration—of identity, resistance, and pride.

Years ago, I was proud to be a primary sponsor for the Dandy Lion exhibit at @hammondshouse in Atlanta—curated by @apshantology —a groundbreaking exhibit that redefined Black masculinity through bold, elegant self-expression. Victorian cuts. African flair. Every thread a statement of freedom.

Art isn’t just culture—it’s infrastructure. It shapes how we see ourselves and how the world sees us. From my time running the @nbaf to my experience chairing the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts at @kennedycenter I’ve seen the arts spark dialogue, dismantle stereotypes and build bridges.

So yes, let’s celebrate the glamour—but also the grit behind it. Because creativity is power. And it’s through that power that we build a better future.

#BuildBetterFutures #MetGala2025 #BlackDandyism #ArtAsInfrastructure #BlackStyle #CulturalPower #Leadership #ReclaimTheNarrative

Last night in Cherokee County, 400 Democrats packed the room—and the passion was undeniable.

No elected Democrats in the county at the state level yet, but the groundwork is being laid. Precinct by precinct. Committee by committee. Vote by vote.

Cherokee, you’re not waiting on change—you’re building it. I’m proud to be in this fight with you.

Wishing you a joyful and hope-filled Easter!

May this day remind us all that renewal is possible, grace is abundant, and better days are always within reach.

Wishing the Jewish community a happy and healthy Passover!

It’s #NationalPublicHealthWeek—a powerful reminder that public health touches every stage of life.

From expanding access to healthcare to supporting maternal and mental health, advancing addiction recovery, and promoting senior wellness, I’m proud to champion policies that help Georgians live healthier, longer, and less stressful lives.

Serving on the Senate Health & Human Services Committee, I fight to ensure that no one—young or old—is left behind when it comes to care.

To every public health worker: I see you, I thank you, and I’m honored to fight alongside you.

#GApol #PublicHealth #HealthEquity

As the dust settles under the Gold Dome, the Governor now has 40 days to sign or veto the bills that passed. While the 2025 legislative session may be over, my work is far from done. Throughout the interim, I’ll be hard at work in the district and in study committees, diving deep into the real-life issues that affect our communities. Whether it’s meeting with educators, small business owners, healthcare providers, or you, my door (and inbox) remains open. Thank you for trusting me to be your voice under the Gold Dome.

The Sine Die (week 12) edition of my newsletter can be found here:

https://conta.cc/4jmlfrL

Proud to stand with @GradyHealth Grady Health System today as we broke ground on a new freestanding emergency room in Union City! This is more than just a building—it’s an important step toward health equity and a promise of lifesaving care, closer to home, for those living in south Fulton County. Scheduled to open Fall 2026

It’s a wrap on the 2025 legislative session! The gavel falls, but the work continues. Grateful for the fights we won, the progress we pushed and the voices we lifted. Onward. #SineDie

For 25 hours, Senator Cory Booker stood on the Senate floor, not just speaking—but amplifying the voices of Americans harmed by this administration’s reckless decisions. From cuts to public health funding to weakening the CDC—right here in Atlanta—these policies put lives at risk.

In his powerful speech, Senator Booker honored the legacy of Georgia’s own John Lewis, reminding us that democracy demands action, courage, and ‘good trouble.’

Thank you, Senator Booker, for standing up when it matters most. We stand with you. #GoodTrouble #ProtectPublicHealth #ThankYouCoryBooker

March may be over, but the spirit of Women’s History Month lives on!

At my annual Salute to Sisterhood luncheon, we gathered to honor powerhouse women shaping our communities—leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers in business, education, philanthropy, politics, law enforcement, the arts and media. Their impact is undeniable, their influence unstoppable.

Women hold up half the sky, and the power of sisterhood is limitless. When we lift each other up, the sky’s the limit to what we can achieve.

A special salute to this year’s honorees who joined us. Your leadership and dedication inspire us all:

•Kimberly Beaudin
•Dr. Maria Boynton
•Michelle Lloyd
•Sheriff Tia McWilliams
•Shayla Neely
•Mayor Shameka Reynolds
•Ariel Shaw

Here’s to the women who lead, inspire, and pave the way for the next generation!

#SaluteToSisterhood #WomensHistoryMonth #StongerTogether

Early morning at the Capitol today. Hearings on compensating wrongfully convicted individuals shouldn’t begin at 6am…

As we enter the final week of the legislative session, I remain deeply committed to fighting for policies that uplift every person and every family in our district. Please take a look at my updates from week 11.

https://conta.cc/4leixXm

Wishing you a joyous and peaceful Eid with your loved ones!

Some names belong in history books, but the ones that truly shape a city also belong on its streets and in its parks—woven into the places where life happens.

Yesterday, we honored Mayor Shirley Clarke Franklin, Atlanta’s first female mayor, by dedicating a street in her name. A leader who didn’t just make history but changed the course of it, she led with courage, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Atlanta.

Now, every time someone passes this street, they’ll be reminded: leadership is about action, legacy is about impact, and the work is never done. As someone who has long admired Mayor Franklin, it was a joy to be part of this street dedication.

#ShirleyClarkeFranklinBlvd
#AtlantaLegacy #HistoryMakers

Was up and out early on Saturday morning to sound the starting horn for the Northside Beltline’s 3k/5k with Atlanta Track Club! Over 1,200 runners showed up for this sold out race. Always good to see my city and county colleagues!

Fifteen years ago, the Affordable Care Act changed lives—including those of families right here in Georgia. It expanded coverage, protected people with preexisting conditions, and made healthcare more affordable. I’ve seen firsthand how access to care can mean the difference between struggle and stability.

It’s why I was proud to sponsor SB 262. This bill made sure that provisions of the ACA were upheld—including preventative screenings without copays.

Great conversation with Greg Bluestein on priorities, policy, and politics. Always a pleasure to dive into the issues that matter. Georgia politics is heating up!

I was honored to receive the Public Service Award at the SWAC Basketball Tournament GameChangHER Awards Brunch!

“Sports and politics may seem like different worlds, but they share a common truth: the rules of the game determine who gets to compete—and who gets left on the sidelines. The policies we write, the investments we make, and the access we create don’t just shape winners and losers on a scoreboard—they define opportunity in classrooms, in industries, and in the economy.”

Enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate 45 years of service to the state of Georgia from the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association.

These men and women run small businesses in communities across Georgia providing critical and life-saving services to people seeking recovery from addiction.

Thank you to the members of the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association for dedicating your professional lives to the service of Georgia families

#GARecovers

Had a great day introducing the Georgia State Senate and the Secretary of State to Dr. Charles F. McClelland, Commissioner of the HBCU league South Western Athletic Conference (SWAC) with a special invite resolution earlier this week.

Under his leadership, SWAC’s impact has extended far beyond the court. He understands that sports are not just about competition, they are also about community — and economics. A $58 million dollar economic impact right here in Georgia to be specific!

I am grateful that the State Senate passed the Georgia Anti-Doxxing Act, legislation that I had originally introduced and passed out of committee in 2023/2024.

What sets doxxing apart from existing cyberstalking laws is the methodical collection of personal data and the calculated decision on what information to release and on which online platform. Once the sensitive information infiltrates public domains, it becomes nearly impossible to retract it, and it leaves victims vulnerable and exposed. This is why the Georgia Anti-Doxxing Act is necessary to keep Georgians safe.

I was eager to introduce SB 182 that would create the Georgia Music Office. This important office would support and promote music production in the state, attract music-related investment and workforce development opportunities, and serve as a liaison between music companies and governmental agencies, among other responsibilities. The office will also certify cities and counties seeking to promote music-related economic development in their areas as “Music Friendly Georgia Certified Communities.”

Music is economic development and Georgia has the talent, the history, and the momentum — we cannot afford to fall behind other states that are already investing in their music industries. I am hopeful we will see the creation of the Georgia Music Office soon!

Happy International Women’s Day! Today, we celebrate the power, resilience, and impact of women—especially those who show up, speak up, and lead the way.

I was honored to recently sponsor Small Business Advocacy Day at the Capitol, getting the chance to connect with incredible women entrepreneurs and small business owners. Women-owned businesses are driving our economy forward, growing nearly twice as fast as those owned by men between 2019 and 2023—and in the past year alone, that growth rate jumped to 4.5 times faster!

When women succeed, communities thrive. Let’s keep breaking barriers and building a future where every woman has the opportunity to lead and grow.

#InternationalWomensDay #WomenInBusiness

Check out my segment on Lawmakers where I speak about the importance of protecting preventative healthcare benefits for Georgians.

I like to say that my bill, SB 262, is a status quo bill to ensure that insurers in our state do not start charging patients for preventative screenings.

Great press conference today at the Capitol as we gathered to voice support for the passage of a new Georgia Civil Rights Act!

Senate Bill 320 and House Bill 670, which represent the Civil Rights Act of 2025, promise that every individual, regardless of race, age, gender, background or ability, has a fair shot at success in our state.

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}