Pearson Selected as Deputy Majority Whip for State Senate
ATLANTA - State Sen. Chip Pearson (R-Dawsonville) has been appointed a
Majority Deputy Whip of the Republican Caucus by GOP Majority Whip Mitch
Seabaugh (R-Sharpsburg). Sen. Pearson is in his first term as a State
Senator, and such leadership positions generally are bestowed on those with
more seniority.
“Sen. Pearson has demonstrated extraordinary leadership skills,” Sen.
Seabaugh said, following the appointment. “He is well-liked by his
colleagues, and knows how to get the job done. I think he will be an asset
to the Republican leadership team, and we are looking forward to working
with him.”
The role of the deputy whip is to assist the caucus leadership in mobilizing
the vote on key legislative issues and objectives. Sen. Pearson also will
provide information on legislation to the members of the Republican Caucus
and will work with the leadership in coordinating strategy within the State
Senate. In addition, Sen. Pearson will poll members of the Senate Majority
Caucus on their backing of proposed law to ensure the Caucuses support of
major legislation.
The term "Whip" is derived from the early 20th century British fox hunting
expression, "whipper-end," which refers to the member of the hunting team
that keeps the dogs from straying from the team during the chase. It was
first used in the British House of Commons in the late 1700s and in the U.S.
House of Representatives in 1987 when James A. Tawney (R-Minnesota) was
appointed “whip” by Speaker of the House Thomas Reed (R-Maine) to help Reed
keep track of the whereabouts of party members.
“Being selected early on for a leadership role was certainly a surprise,”
said Pearson. “I am very thankful for the opportunity, and humbled to be
trusted with the responsibility that comes with this position. I’m looking
forward to the challenge. I’m not here to just fill a seat.”
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Sen. Chip Pearson represents the 51st Senate District which
includes Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Pickens and Union counties, and
portions of Forsyth and WhiteCounties. He may be reached at 404.656.0055 or
via e-mail at chip@votepearson.com.
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