Sunday Conversation: Judge Penny Brown Reynolds

Candidate for Georgia Secretary of State

Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, a Biden administration appointee and former Fulton County state judge who also settled family disputes on TV, has announced her candidacy for secretary of state.

The secretary of state is responsible for overseeing elections across the state, granting business licenses for a variety of professions, and managing Georgia’s securities market. Brown Reynolds’ campaign is focused on protecting Georgians’ voting rights, supporting small businesses, protecting senior citizens and other vulnerable communities from fraud, and restoring public trust in government.

Courier Eco Latino: Judge Reynolds, you’ve built a distinguished career—as a judge, a federal appointee, and a public voice on justice. Why now, and why this race for Secretary of State?

Brown Reynolds: This moment calls for leadership rooted in integrity and service. Throughout my career, I’ve worked to ensure fairness—whether in the courtroom or in federal government. But today, I see a growing need to restore trust in our institutions, especially in how we conduct elections and serve the public. I’m running because I believe government must serve the people—not partisanship or personal gain—and I believe I can help lead Georgia back to that principle.

Courier Eco Latino: Your campaign centers on the phrase “A Georgia for All of Us.” That’s powerful language—but what does it mean in practical terms for communities across this state?

Brown Reynolds: It means fairness in action. It means ensuring that no matter who you are or where you live, you have equal access to opportunity, to your vote, and to the services your government provides. For too long, some Georgians have felt excluded or unheard. My vision is about inclusion—removing barriers, expanding access, and making sure every voice is respected.

Courier Eco Latino: Let’s talk about elections. The Secretary of State sits at the center of that conversation. How do you balance election security with accessibility?

Brown Reynolds: It’s not an either-or—it’s both. We can have secure elections and accessible ones. That starts with clear, fair rules that are easy to understand and consistently applied. I support expanding early voting locations, strengthening absentee ballot access with clear instructions, and ensuring every eligible voter has a straightforward path to participate. At the same time, we must maintain systems that safeguard the integrity of the process.

Courier Eco Latino: Confidence in elections has been shaken in recent years. How do you rebuild that trust, especially in communities that feel disillusioned?

Brown Reynolds: Trust is earned through transparency and consistency. People need to understand how the system works. I would prioritize voter education, open communication, and clear reporting on how elections are conducted. When people see transparency in action, confidence begins to return.

Courier Eco Latino: You mentioned voter education. What would that look like under your leadership?

Brown Reynolds: It means meeting people where they are—through community forums, digital platforms, and partnerships with local organizations. We must demystify the process so voters feel informed, empowered, and confident when they step into the voting booth.

Courier Eco Latino: Election workers have faced increasing pressure and even threats. What is your commitment to them?

Brown Reynolds: They are the backbone of our democracy. We must protect them—period. That means ensuring they can do their jobs free from intimidation and political interference. A strong democracy depends on their ability to serve without fear.

Courier Eco Latino: Many voters don’t realize the Secretary of State also oversees business activity. What is your vision for supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs?

Brown Reynolds: Small businesses drive Georgia’s economy. My goal is to remove unnecessary barriers and make it easier for entrepreneurs to succeed. That includes streamlining the registration process, providing clear, plain-language guidance, and expanding outreach—especially in rural and underserved communities.

Courier Eco Latino: You’ve proposed a “Business Access Georgia” initiative. Walk us through how that would change the experience for a first-time entrepreneur.

Brown Reynolds: Imagine a system where you can start your business, track your application, and get help—all in one place. That’s what this platform is designed to do. It’s about efficiency, transparency, and accessibility—making sure people aren’t discouraged by bureaucracy before they even get started.

Courier Eco Latino: Licensing delays have become a real concern across multiple professions. What’s broken, and how do you fix it?

Brown Reynolds: The system is outdated and inefficient in many areas. Georgia processes hundreds of thousands of licenses, yet too many people face delays that impact their livelihoods. We must modernize the process, reduce backlogs, and prioritize professions that are critical to our communities, like teachers, nurses, and social workers.

Courier Eco Latino: Beyond efficiency, do you see the Secretary of State’s office playing a role in workforce development?

Brown Reynolds: Absolutely. When we make licensing more accessible and efficient, we’re helping people enter the workforce faster. That strengthens families, communities, and the economy.

Courier Eco Latino: You’ve also highlighted protecting seniors and vulnerable populations from fraud. Why is that such a priority for you?

Brown Reynolds: Because too many of our seniors are being targeted and exploited. They deserve to live with dignity and peace of mind. I will use the office’s authority to investigate fraud, partner with law enforcement, and expand education efforts so people know how to protect themselves.

Courier Eco Latino: Let’s talk about technology. How do you modernize government without losing accountability?

Brown Reynolds: Technology should enhance transparency, not replace it. I plan to implement tools like a public data portal where citizens can track performance metrics—whether it’s elections, business filings, or licensing. When people can see how their government is performing, accountability becomes real.

Courier Eco Latino: Cybersecurity is also a growing concern. How would you safeguard sensitive data?

Brown Reynolds: We must prioritize cybersecurity at every level. That means investing in strong systems, constant monitoring, and proactive protection to ensure that voter, business, and licensing data remain secure.

Courier Eco Latino: You’ve received an endorsement from former Gov. Roy Barnes. What does that support represent to you?

Brown Reynolds: It represents trust in my leadership and experience. I was honored to serve as his executive counsel, and his support reflects a shared commitment to integrity and effective governance.

Courier Eco Latino: The Secretary of State’s office has become increasingly politicized. How will you ensure fairness?

Brown Reynolds: By staying grounded in principle. My decisions will be guided by fairness, the law, and the needs of the people—not politics. This office must serve all Georgians equally.

Courier Eco Latino: Let’s bring it home. For voters in communities like Columbus, Phenix City, and across the state—why should they trust you with this responsibility?

Brown Reynolds: Because my record reflects service, fairness, and accountability. I’ve spent my career standing up for people, ensuring justice, and working to make systems better. I will bring that same commitment to this office.

Courier Eco Latino: And finally, if elected, what does success look like at the end of your first term?

Brown Reynolds: Success means restored trust. It means elections that people believe in, businesses that can grow without unnecessary barriers, professionals who can work without delay, and communities that feel protected and heard. It means a Georgia that truly works—for all of us.