Rep. Allen Peake, R-Macon, has stepped down as one of Gov. Nathan Deal's floor leaders.
The decision, first reported by The Telegraph in Macon, means Peake is no longer part of any leadership team. The former secretary/treasurer of the House Republican Caucus, lost a bid for majority leader earlier this year and stepped down as vice chairman of the powerful Rules Committee to take on the role on Deal's team.
But, now, Peake says he'll be free to focus on his private business interests and his top legislative priority. In a statement, Peake said:
"Due to pressing business obligations (opening 3 new restaurants early in 2016 ) and a passionate desire to push forward legislation allowing cultivation of medical cannabis oil in Georgia, I'm stepping aside as Governor Deal's Floor Leader. The Governor deserves someone totally focused on his agenda. I'm grateful for the opportunity he gave me, and I look forward to supporting his initiatives in the House this next session, when I can."
Peake and Deal are on opposing sides of one piece of the medical marijuana debate. Peake, who championed the bill passed this year allowing limited use of cannabis oil to treat certain disorders, wants to come back in 2016 to legalize a state-sanctioned growing and cultivation program for the drug. Deal said he disagrees and a gubernatorial commission that Peake chaired backed the governor's play.
Deal has not yet announced his 2016 slate of floor leaders.\
Update 12:12 p.m.: Deal spokeswoman Jen Talaber says: "The governor was notified of this decision last month by Rep. Peake. He remains thankful for his friendship and grateful for his service to Georgians."
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