Deal's leadership gets things done
With two legislative session now under his belt, Gov. Nathan Deal has developed a reputation as a quiet, effective leader who works behind the scenes to get things done and isn’t overly concerned about who gets the credit.He’s pretty much got what he wanted from the legislature in his first two years. Early on in the 2012 legislative session, he laid out what he wanted and allowed lawmakers to hash out the details of the legislation to meet his goals. Deal was at the table as lawmakers did their thing. He effectively participated as a leader and a listener.
“He lets the process take its course, but he’s not disengaged,” said Georgia Budget and Policy Institute Executive Director Alan Essig. “That way, whatever he has gets listened to and acted upon. He may not be as publicly out there as some past governors were, but he seemed to have accomplished most of what he laid out.”
House Speaker David Ralston described Deal as respectful, receptive and deliberate in his weekly meetings with legislative leadership.
“He doesn’t try to dominate by force or personality. He more tries to win you over by the merit of his idea. But he’s also willing to listen to those that maybe have better ideas,” Ralston said.
Around the state Capitol the word is Deal’s door is always open. He listens and is receptive to ideas and will adjust his policy proposals to account for new information.
“He’s just got the skills to get it done and make everybody feel like they were a part,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Tommie Williams, R-Lyons.
That’s leadership, and Nathan Deal is showing he has the leadership and people skills to get things done.
