President Pro Tempore Senator John F. Kennedy Announces Staff

ATLANTA (January 9, 2022) | Today, Senator John F. Kennedy announced his office staff as he assumes the Office of the President Pro Tempore of the Georgia Senate.

“We have assembled a young, smart, and energetic team that reflects the values most important to the Senate and to Georgians,” said Pro Tem Kennedy. “With our shared commitment to serving the public, I know that we will accomplish great things for this state. I am excited to get to work for the people of Georgia and Senate District 18, and look forward to my team’s success during this upcoming legislative Session.”

–        Charlie Barrett joins the office as Chief of Staff. A veteran of several election campaigns, Charlie has worked extensively in Georgia politics including on congressional and statewide races. He has also been a small business owner and has experience in the State Capitol having previously served as an aide in the Senate Majority Whip’s Office. Charlie holds a degree from the University of North Georgia. He and his wife live on a small farm in Hall County.

–        Kennedy Dickerson joins the office as Director of Operations. Kennedy is a fixture at the Capitol having served in several roles in both the executive and legislative branches. Prior to joining the Pro Tem’s Office, she worked in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office and the Department of Human Services. Kennedy holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgia Gwinnett College and will finish with a master’s degree at the University of West Georgia in May. She lives in Peachtree City.

–        James W. Beal joins the office as General Counsel. James brings a wealth of knowledge in both policy and legal affairs, and previously served as Policy Director in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office. In addition to his policy experience, James served in constituent services and communications roles in the Deal Administration. He holds a bachelor’s degree and law degree from Georgia State University. James lives in Atlanta.

–        Hannah Basta Roberts joins the office as Policy Aide and Associate General Counsel. Hannah has experience in a variety of public and private sector roles including in Congress and at one of the largest law firms in the United States. Prior to joining the office, Hannah served in the Attorney General’s Office. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University and a law degree from the University of Virginia. Hannah and her husband live in Smyrna.

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Sen. John F. Kennedy serves as the President Pro Tempore of the Georgia State Senate. He represents the 18th Senate District which includes Upson, Monroe, Peach, Crawford, and portions of Bibb and Houston Counties. He may be reached at 404.656.6578 or by email at john.kennedy@senate.ga.gov