Anissa Jones
Anissa Jones (Democratic Party) is a member of the Georgia House of Representatives, representing District 143. She assumed office on January 13, 2025. Her current term ends on January 11, 2027.
Jones (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Georgia House of Representatives to represent District 143. She won in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Jones completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Anissa Jones was born in Macon, Georgia. She earned a high school diploma from Northeast Comprehensive High School, a bachelor's degree from Fort Valley State University in 1994, a graduate degree from Life University in 1998, and a graduate degree from Wesleyan College in 2005. Her career experience includes working as a doctor.[1]
Jones has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
- Bibb County Democratic Party
- Georgia Chiropractic Association
- Junior League of Macon
- Leadership Macon
- Macon Soils
- Macon Water Alliance
- Macon Water Authority
- Main Street Macon Board
- Middle Georgia Regional Champion
- Newtown Loans Board
- Newtown Macon Board
- Northeast High School Advisory Board
- Rosa Jackson Advisory Board
Elections
2024
See also: Georgia House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for Georgia House of Representatives District 143
Anissa Jones defeated Barbara Boyer in the general election for Georgia House of Representatives District 143 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Anissa Jones (D)  | 61.9 | 13,318 |
| Barbara Boyer (R) | 38.1 | 8,196 | ||
| Total votes: 21,514 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Georgia House of Representatives District 143
Anissa Jones advanced from the Democratic primary for Georgia House of Representatives District 143 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Anissa Jones | 100.0 | 3,077 |
| Total votes: 3,077 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Georgia House of Representatives District 143
Barbara Boyer advanced from the Republican primary for Georgia House of Representatives District 143 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Barbara Boyer | 100.0 | 1,502 | |
| Total votes: 1,502 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Jones in this election.
Pledges
Jones signed the following pledges.
2011
Jones was defeated by fellow Democrat James Beverly (D) in the July 19 special election primary for House District 139. The race was a nonpartisan special election with an open primary. Since only two candidates ran for the seat, a runoff election will not be necessary. The special election for State House District 139 took place in a portion of Bibb County.[2][3]
Campaign themes
2024
Video for Ballotpedia
| Video submitted to Ballotpedia Released September 19, 2024 |
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Anissa Jones completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Jones' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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- Economic Recovery: The economic impact of recent global events has left many families struggling to make ends meet. Small businesses, which are the backbone of our community, have been particularly hard hit. To address this, I propose implementing targeted economic stimulus programs aimed at supporting local businesses and encouraging entrepreneurship. This includes providing low-interest loans, grants for startups, and training programs to equip our workforce with the necessary skills for emerging industries. Additionally, by investing in infrastructure projects, we can create jobs and stimulate economic growth within our district.
- Access to Quality Healthcare: Healthcare remains a significant concern, especially with the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. Many residents in HD 143 lack access to affordable healthcare services, which exacerbates health disparities. I propose expanding Medicaid to cover more low-income families and advocating for the establishment of more community health centers. These centers can provide essential services, including preventive care, mental health support, and chronic disease management. Furthermore, I will work towards increasing funding for Chiropractic and telehealth services, ensuring that even the most remote areas of our district have access to healthcare professionals.
- I believe that government plays a crucial role in addressing the issue of affordable housing. It's our responsibility to create policies that foster inclusive communities and provide opportunities for all individuals to have access to safe and affordable housing options. This can be achieved through a combination of strategies, including incentivizing private investment in affordable housing projects, promoting mixed-income developments, and implementing rent stabilization measures where appropriate.
Additionally, the documentary "13th" directed by Ava DuVernay is an excellent resource for understanding the intersection of race, justice, and systemic inequality in the United States. It explores the history of racial injustice and the ways in which policies have perpetuated discrimination.
Integrity: Elected officials must demonstrate honesty and transparency in their actions and decisions to foster trust among constituents.
Accountability: They should be willing to take responsibility for their decisions and actions, ensuring they remain answerable to the public they serve.
Empathy: A strong understanding of the needs and concerns of constituents is essential for effective representation, allowing officials to advocate for policies that truly benefit the community.
Collaboration: Elected officials should work cooperatively with colleagues, community members, and stakeholders to address challenges and find common ground.
Vision: They need a clear vision for their community, along with the ability to set realistic goals that align with the aspirations of their constituents.
Civic Engagement: Commitment to engaging with the community, listening to feedback, and promoting participation in the democratic process is vital for a healthy democracy.
Adaptability: The ability to respond to changing circumstances and evolving needs is crucial for effective governance, allowing officials to adjust their strategies as necessary.
Advocacy for Justice: Elected officials should prioritize social justice and equity, advocating for policies that promote fairness and opportunity for all, particularly marginalized communities.
Knowledge and Expertise: A solid understanding of the issues facing constituents and the legislative process is important for informed decision-making and effective representation.
Integrity: I prioritize honesty and transparency in all my actions, ensuring that I remain accountable to the people I serve.
Strong Communication Skills: I am able to clearly convey ideas, listen actively to others, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering collaboration and trust within my community.
Problem-Solving Abilities: I approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset, analyzing issues from multiple perspectives and working to develop practical, effective solutions.
Commitment to Service: My dedication to public service drives me to prioritize the needs of my constituents and advocate for policies that improve their lives.
Adaptability: I can navigate changing circumstances and respond to the evolving needs of my community, ensuring that my leadership remains relevant and effective.
Visionary Leadership: I have a clear vision for the future and the ability to set realistic goals that inspire others to work together toward common objectives.
Championing Social Justice: It is essential to advocate for policies that promote equity and justice for all Georgians, ensuring that marginalized communities have a voice in the legislative process.
Ensuring Accessible Healthcare: I am committed to expanding access to affordable healthcare for every Georgian. This includes advocating for Medicaid expansion and investing in mental health resources.
Enhancing Public Education: Education is a fundamental right. I will work to secure adequate funding for public schools, support teachers, and ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background.
Protecting the Environment: I will prioritize legislation that addresses climate change and promotes sustainable practices. Protecting our natural resources is crucial for the health of our communities and future generations.
Supporting Economic Opportunity: I aim to foster an economy that works for everyone by supporting small businesses, increasing the minimum wage, and creating job training programs that empower workers.
Upholding Civil Rights: Protecting the rights of all individuals, including voting rights, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ rights, is vital to ensuring a fair and just society.
Advocate for Social Justice: I want to be remembered for my commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalized and underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has a voice in the democratic process.
Enhance Access to Healthcare: I hope to leave behind a healthcare system that is inclusive and accessible to all Georgians, regardless of their economic status or background.
Strengthen Education: I aim to contribute to a robust public education system that provides quality education and equitable resources for all students, preparing the next generation for success.
Promote Environmental Sustainability: I want to ensure that future generations inherit a healthy planet by championing policies that protect our natural resources and combat climate change.
Foster Civic Engagement: I aspire to inspire others to become active participants in their communities and advocate for issues that matter to them, building a culture of civic responsibility.
The character of Atticus Finch serves as a powerful role model, embodying integrity and compassion. The book encourages readers to examine their own beliefs and the impact of their actions on others, making it a timeless reflection on human nature and society. It has inspired me to advocate for social justice and equality in my own life and work.
This struggle has instilled in me a deep commitment to advocating for survivors of abuse and working to create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone. It has motivated me to promote awareness, education, and prevention initiatives, ensuring that others do not have to endure similar experiences. By turning my struggles into a source of strength, I hope to empower others to heal and find their voices.
Collaboration on Policy: The governor and the legislature should work together to develop and implement policies that address the needs of the state. This collaboration ensures that the perspectives of both the executive and legislative branches are considered in decision-making.
Respect for Roles: While the governor has the authority to propose legislation and veto bills, the legislature is responsible for representing the people and crafting laws. Both branches should respect each other’s roles and responsibilities, fostering a productive working environment.
Open Communication: Regular dialogue between the governor and legislative leaders is crucial. This includes keeping lines of communication open to discuss priorities, challenges, and opportunities, which can lead to more effective governance.
Accountability and Transparency: Both the governor and the legislature should hold each other accountable while maintaining transparency with the public. This builds trust among constituents and promotes an understanding of the decision-making process.
Bipartisanship: Ideally, the relationship should transcend party lines, focusing on finding common ground and working together on issues that benefit all Georgians, regardless of political affiliation.
Access to Healthcare: A significant number of Georgians still lack access to affordable, quality healthcare, especially in rural areas. Expanding Medicaid and improving our healthcare infrastructure are critical steps to ensure that everyone receives the care they need.
Education Funding and Quality: Every child in Georgia deserves access to a high-quality education. Unfortunately, many schools—especially in low-income areas—remain underfunded. We must prioritize equitable funding for public education and provide robust support for our teachers to empower the next generation.
Environmental Sustainability: Georgia faces pressing environmental challenges, including climate change, water resource management, and pollution. We need to adopt sustainable practices and policies that protect our natural resources for the benefit of future generations.
Transportation Infrastructure: With the growth of urban areas, traffic congestion and outdated transportation infrastructure have become significant issues. Investing in public transportation options and developing sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of all Georgians is essential.
Affordable Housing: The rising cost of living has made affordable housing increasingly scarce, particularly in urban centers. We need to enact policies that promote affordable housing initiatives and prevent displacement, ensuring stable communities for all residents.
Voting Rights and Political Engagement: Protecting voting rights is fundamental to our democracy. We must work to eliminate voter suppression tactics and encourage civic engagement so that every voice is heard and represented.
Legislators with prior experience often have a better grasp of the legislative process, including drafting bills, navigating committee systems, and comprehending state law intricacies. This understanding can lead to more effective governance and quicker progress on issues.
Previous experience helps legislators build valuable relationships with colleagues, community leaders, and stakeholders. These connections facilitate collaboration and garner support for initiatives that benefit constituents. Experienced legislators typically possess a deeper understanding of the policy issues their constituents face. This insight allows them to advocate effectively and make informed decisions that reflect the needs of the community. Those with a political background may have encountered and managed crises before, equipping them with skills to navigate challenging situations and make timely, effective decisions. A background in public service can build trust with constituents. Voters often feel more confident electing representatives who have shown a commitment to public service and civic engagement.
Lewis’s dedication to protecting voting rights, advocating for equality, and speaking truth to power serves as a guiding light for me. He showed that real change happens when leaders listen, engage with their communities, and fight tirelessly for what’s fair and just. I want to bring that same passion, resilience, and moral clarity to the role, standing up for the values and people I represent, no matter the obstacles.
What struck me most was her resilience and determination to advocate for her child despite the challenges. This story serves as a constant reminder of why it’s crucial to fight for policies that ensure every family has access to quality, affordable healthcare. Her experience drives my commitment to push for Medicaid expansion and to work towards a healthcare system that puts people, not profits, first. Stories like hers are why I’m passionate about public service—to make sure that no one has to choose between their health and financial stability.
Because they make up everything!
The legislature, as the voice of the people, plays a crucial role in this balance. It should be responsible for defining the scope and duration of emergency powers, setting clear guidelines, and regularly reviewing their use to ensure they are not misused. This oversight ensures that emergency actions remain transparent, targeted, and in line with public interests.
Additionally, Medicaid expansion would help address disparities in health outcomes, improve mental health services, and create more stable funding for rural healthcare facilities that are at risk of closure. This bill would not only improve health outcomes but also strengthen our state’s economy by creating jobs and bringing in federal dollars.
Georgia Working Families Party (GWFP)
Melvin Colbert
Lynn Farmer
Anita Howard
Scott Mitchell
State Representative Teddy Reese
State Representative El-Mahdi Holly
State Representative Stacey Evans
Senator David Lucas
Commissioner Elaine Lucas
Ricky Crawford
Randy Crawford
Quintessa Hardy
Sheddrick Clark
JacQuez Harris
Asha Ellen
Mental Health Now
Georgia WIN List
Georgia AFL-CIO
Middle Georgia 4 Choice
314 Action Fund
Bibb Cty Democratic Party
Houston County Democratic Committee
Appropriations Committee: This committee is crucial for understanding and influencing budgetary decisions. I want to ensure that funding is allocated to essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities.
Education Committee: Education is a cornerstone of opportunity and equality. I am passionate about advocating for policies that improve public education, support teachers, and ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education.
Health and Human Services Committee: Access to healthcare is a fundamental right. I am eager to work on initiatives that expand healthcare access, address mental health services, and promote public health initiatives.
Environment and Natural Resources Committee: Addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices are critical to our future. I want to advocate for legislation that protects Georgia’s natural resources and supports a transition to renewable energy.
Judiciary Committee: This committee deals with issues related to civil rights, justice reform, and legal matters. I am interested in promoting policies that ensure justice for all, protect civil liberties, and address systemic inequalities in the legal system.
Economic Development Committee: Fostering a strong economy that works for everyone is important to me. I want to focus on supporting small businesses, creating job opportunities, and ensuring fair labor practices.
Financial Transparency: Government operations should be open and accessible to the public. This includes clear reporting on budgets, expenditures, and funding sources. Citizens have the right to know how their tax dollars are being spent and to see that funds are allocated efficiently and effectively.
Accessible Information: All financial documents should be made easily accessible to the public, including budgets, audits, and financial reports. Utilizing technology to provide online access to this information can help engage citizens and promote understanding of government spending.
Regular Audits: Implementing regular audits by independent agencies can help ensure that public funds are being managed responsibly. These audits should be transparent and made available to the public, allowing for scrutiny and accountability.
Accountability Measures: Elected officials must be held accountable for their decisions and actions. This includes creating mechanisms for citizens to report misconduct and ensuring that there are consequences for unethical behavior.
Public Participation: Engaging the community in budgetary decisions and policy-making processes fosters accountability. Public forums, town halls, and surveys can help gather input from constituents and ensure their voices are heard in financial matters.
However, without proper safeguards, a ballot initiative process could have unintended consequences. Special interest groups with significant funding could use it to push through measures that benefit a few at the expense of the broader public. Additionally, complex policy issues may be oversimplified, leading to poorly constructed laws that could have long-term negative impacts.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
Scorecards
A scorecard evaluates a legislator’s voting record. Its purpose is to inform voters about the legislator’s political positions. Because scorecards have varying purposes and methodologies, each report should be considered on its own merits. For example, an advocacy group’s scorecard may assess a legislator’s voting record on one issue while a state newspaper’s scorecard may evaluate the voting record in its entirety.
Ballotpedia is in the process of developing an encyclopedic list of published scorecards. Some states have a limited number of available scorecards or scorecards produced only by select groups. It is Ballotpedia’s goal to incorporate all available scorecards regardless of ideology or number.
Click here for an overview of legislative scorecards in all 50 states. To contribute to the list of Georgia scorecards, email suggestions to editor@ballotpedia.org.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
|
Candidate Georgia House of Representatives District 143 |
Officeholder Georgia House of Representatives District 143 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 7, 2024
- ↑ Secretary of State News, "Secretary of State Kemp Sets Qualifying Dates for the Special Elections in State Senate District 26 and State House District 139," June 10, 2011
- ↑ Macon.com, "Beverly defeats Jones in state house race," July 19, 2011
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by James Beverly (D) |
Georgia House of Representatives District 143 2025-Present |
Succeeded by - |
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