Greg Dolezal

Greg Dolezal is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Georgia State Senate, representing the 27th district, which includes Cumming, Georgia. A member of the Republican Party, Dolezal is known for his involvement in various legislative committees and his alignment with conservative values. He is also a founding partner of a technology company and has a background in both business and community service.

Early life and career

Greg Dolezal was born on October 1, 1978, in Joliet, Illinois. He completed his higher education at North Park University, graduating in 2001 with degrees in business administration and communication studies. Initially, Dolezal had aspirations of attending law school, but he opted for a different path that led him to Atlanta, Georgia. In Atlanta, he became involved with North Point Community Church, where he worked in video production. His career in the Christian music industry began when he took on the role of tour manager for the well-known Christian musician Chris Tomlin, a position he held for eleven years.

Dolezal's commitment to community service is evident through his previous roles on various local boards and committees. He served on the Forsyth County Planning Commission and was involved in several steering committees, including those focused on comprehensive planning, impact fees, and transportation. His tenure on the Planning Commission was marked by controversy when he publicly criticized then-Commissioner Brian Tam, leading to a denial of his term extension. This incident highlighted his willingness to engage in local governance and advocate for transparency.

In 2017, Dolezal announced his candidacy for the Georgia State Senate, marking the beginning of his political career. His background in business and community involvement provided a foundation for his legislative ambitions.

Legislative service

Dolezal officially entered the Georgia State Senate in 2018 after winning the election against Democratic challenger Steve Smith. His victory in the general election was characterized by a significant margin, reflecting his strong support within the district. Following his election, he was appointed as deputy whip by then-Senate Majority Whip Steve Gooch in February 2019, a role that underscored his growing influence within the Republican caucus. Dolezal has also taken on leadership responsibilities as Vice Chair of the Science and Technology Committee and is a member of several other committees, including the Education and Youth Committee, the Health and Human Services Committee, the Government Oversight Committee, and the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee.

Throughout his legislative career, Dolezal has focused on issues that resonate with his constituents and align with his conservative principles. He has advocated for increased funding for the construction of new schools, opposed tax increases, and emphasized the need for expanded county roads. His legislative actions reflect a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and educational opportunities in his district.

In December 2020, Dolezal was involved in a significant political event when he signed a petition that supported the Georgia General Assembly's authority to potentially overrule the outcomes of democratic elections within the state. This action was part of a broader national conversation regarding election integrity and legislative power.

As a senator, Dolezal has also engaged in more recent legislative initiatives. In January 2024, he co-sponsored a bill aimed at withholding government funding from libraries in Georgia that are affiliated with the American Library Association. This bill was a response to perceived ideological biases within the organization, particularly following the election of its president, who publicly identified with progressive views.

Policy focus and district

Dolezal represents Georgia's 27th Senate District, which encompasses parts of Forsyth County, including the city of Cumming. His policy focus is heavily influenced by the demographic and economic characteristics of his district, which is known for its suburban communities and a growing population. As a member of the Georgia Freedom Caucus, Dolezal aligns himself with a group of legislators who advocate for limited government, individual liberties, and fiscal conservatism.

His legislative priorities include education, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. Dolezal has consistently supported initiatives aimed at improving educational facilities, reflecting the needs of a district that values quality education for its residents. His opposition to tax increases aligns with his commitment to fiscal conservatism, which is a significant concern for many constituents who prioritize economic growth and stability.

In addition to his legislative duties, Dolezal is an entrepreneur. He is a founder and partner at Renewed Vision, a technology company based in Forsyth County that specializes in live production software used by various organizations, including churches and major corporations. This entrepreneurial background informs his approach to policy, particularly in areas related to technology and economic development.

Dolezal resides in Forsyth County with his wife and four children, further grounding his connection to the community he serves. His personal and professional experiences contribute to his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing his constituents, shaping his legislative agenda and priorities as a state senator. Through his work, Dolezal continues to play a significant role in the political landscape of Georgia, particularly in the areas of education, infrastructure, and community engagement.