Kandiss Taylor, Republican candidate for Georgia’s 1st congressional district, said the timber industry remains a crucial economic driver in South Georgia, noting recent mill closures and job losses while advocating for policies that support local workers and reduce regulatory burdens.
“Forestry isn’t just an industry in South Georgia…it’s our livelihood, our legacy, and the backbone of the First District,” said Taylor. “We’ve already lost too much. We cannot let globalist policies, radical environmental overreach, and economic neglect destroy what generations of South Georgians have built with their bare hands. This district was built by timber, turpentine, and hard work…not Wall Street, not lobbyists, not Atlanta elites.”
According to Taylor’s January 15 social media post on X, the forestry sector faces challenges such as mill shutdowns and supply chain disruptions. Her plans include reducing regulations and prioritizing local employment.
Georgia’s forest industry contributed $42 billion in economic output in 2022, supporting 140,787 jobs with $9.1 billion in wages. South Georgia heavily relies on timber production; however, mill closures have led to $1.7 billion in direct economic losses and $845 million indirectly. State data underscores the sector’s importance for rural employment and community stability.
The U.S. forest products industry generates $288 billion annually, accounting for 4 percent of manufacturing GDP. It employs 950,000 individuals with a $50 billion payroll and ranks as a top employer in 45 states. National statistics highlight its contributions to economic growth and resource sustainability across various sectors.
Taylor was born in Baxley, Georgia. She earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 2003, a master’s degree in school counseling in 2005, and a specialist’s degree in 2006 from Georgia Southern University, followed by a PhD from Regent University in 2014. She has served as a public school educator for 22 years in roles including teacher, counselor, and administrator.
