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Inside The Times, ep. 38: A visit from House Speaker David Ralston
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House Speaker David Ralston, right, and colleagues speak to members of The Times and its editorial board on Wednesday, May 15, 2019. State representatives seated at the table include, from left, Rep. Chris Erwin, R-Homer, Rep. Terry England, R-Auburn, and Rep. Terry Rogers, R-Clarkesville. Rep. Lee Hawkins, R-Gainesville, joined for a portion of the meeting as well. - photo by Austin Steele

On Wednesday, Georgia House Speaker David Ralston and an entourage that included former Gov. Nathan Deal sat down with the editorial board of The Times, intent on defending Ralston’s record as an attorney and lawmaker.

Ralston has been hit by controversy this year as an AJC investigation surfaced hundreds of instances in which Ralston has delayed cases for his clients using privileges granted to him as a leader in the Georgia House.

Ralston argues his actions were above board, including delays requested so Ralston could attend campaign fundraisers, while critics argue he’s abused his power on behalf of clients, some of whom are paying the speaker five-figure sums.

The investigation led The Times’ editorial board to call on Ralston to resign.

Read our coverage and watch video of the discussion between Ralston and the editorial board.

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