During a recent government meeting, Georgia delegate Rufus Montgomery shared insights into his long-standing affiliation with the Republican Party, emphasizing the significance of his military background in shaping his political identity. Montgomery, a Desert Storm veteran, recounted his transition to the Republican Party after leaving the military in 1992, citing a sense of alignment with the party's commitment to veterans and national defense.

Montgomery highlighted the influence of former President Donald Trump on the current Republican landscape, noting that many African Americans initially supported Trump before he publicly identified as a Republican. He argued that Trump's policies, particularly regarding Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and criminal justice reform through the First Step Act, have positively impacted the African American community. Montgomery pointed out that Trump's administration provided crucial funding that helped sustain several HBCUs, which might have otherwise faced closure.

The delegate also acknowledged the contrasting approaches of Trump and President Joe Biden, suggesting that Biden's efforts to build upon Trump's initiatives have been noteworthy. Montgomery's remarks reflect a broader conversation about the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, particularly regarding its appeal to African American voters and the legacy of Trump's presidency.