Press Release
Atlanta, Georgia — February 28, 2022 — A recent, independently commissioned Georgia Chamber poll of the four-county area (Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton) named as home to Rivian’s $5 Billion future manufacturing facility shows a strong 2-to-1 support for the project. According to the poll, the respondents cited the positive impact the facility will have on local community jobs, businesses, schools, and healthcare as primary reasons for their support.
“We are committed to helping the Department of Economic Development and local partners facilitate a transparent and environmentally friendly plan of action that leads to the same kind of economic success and corporate stewardship we see across Georgia and call on political candidates to do the same,” said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber.
“Unfortunately, recent efforts by candidates from both parties to criticize economic growth projects, local efforts or major sporting events for political gain are counterproductive and harmful to the long-term economic prosperity for our communities and the economic mobility of the next generation. The Georgia Chamber is committed to the lives and livelihoods of the residents of the Peach State and hope that it will be the priority for anyone seeking elected office as well.”
The following are key findings from the poll:
“This poll confirms the widespread positive sentiment that we’ve felt within the community and the state since the Rivian project was announced in late December. While there is certainly more work to be done by the state, local community and Rivian, citizens recognize the immense opportunity that this project represents for families, local businesses, schools and area infrastructure,” said Clark.
“For years, the Stanton Springs community and the state have worked together to bring high-quality, cutting-edge businesses to the area in conscientious ways. This poll reflects the community’s optimism that they can grow responsibly while maintaining the values that have made this region special,” said Clark.
“I share the support that our community has in this project. I believe this type of business in our area will enrich the lives of our community members especially our young families,” said Reverend Fred Perriman. “Even though a development of this size may present its own set of challenges, the addition of Rivian in our county will provide opportunities for well-paying jobs as well as positively impact business in Jasper, Morgan, Newton and Walton Counties. Additionally, as a devoted family man, I believe that better paying jobs and incomes are the foundation for a better tax base for our schools, roads, and local economy. We owe it to our future generation to help make their lives better.”
The poll, sponsored by The Georgia Chamber surveyed 450 randomly selected registered voters in Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties regarding the proposed Rivian assembly plant that will be located in Stanton Springs. It has a margin of error of +/- 4.6% and was conducted on Feb. 11 - 13 by Cygnal, which has been named the most accurate polling firm in America by the New York Times. Cygnal polls frequently in Georgia. While the The Georgia Chamber commissioned the poll, it was conducted independently by Cygnal.
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