ATLANTA — State Sen. Blake Tillery, a Republican from Vidalia, is officially running to replace outgoing Lt Gov. Burt Jones. On Monday, the 42-year-old launched his campaign with a pledge to “keep Georgia safe, strong, and free.”

Tillery began the day in Savannah before making stops in Augusta, Perry, Albany, Columbus, Atlanta and Vidalia on a statewide tour.

“My principles are conservative — that’s why I’m a Republican – and my heart is Georgia – that’s why I’m running,” said Tillery in a release from his campaign. “I grew up in a time when we knew what a woman was, merit mattered and freedom was sacred. I want to make sure my sons grow up in that same Georgia.”

His announcement included a campaign video emphasizing his conservative principles, his promise to stand alongside former P

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