House Speaker David Ralston didn't slam the door shut on a comeback of "religious liberty" legislation, but he came close.

The Blue Ridge Republican told the AJC that any effort to revive the contentious legislation was not among his priorities.

“We’ve been really busy in the House since last session looking at ways we can take this success, this economic climate, all over Georgia," he said, citing a transit study effort and economic development efforts in rural Georgia. "We have an awful lot of work to do. So I haven’t really thought about that.

He wasn't quite as vociferous as Gov. Nathan Deal's top aide was last week, but the message was clear.

Deal chief of staff Chris Riley urged the candidates in the crowded gubernatorial field to strike a cautious note next year with contentious social measures lest it imperil the bid for Amazon's second headquarters.

About the Author

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com