Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., and Georgia Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) Director Candice Broce are at odds over the senator’s recent ad highlighting his work on the state’s foster care system. The dispute comes as Ossoff seeks re-election in a closely watched race.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
Ossoff released an ad titled "Our Kids," emphasizing his role in a bipartisan investigation and legislation addressing Georgia’s foster care system. Broce criticized the ad, stating Ossoff has not delivered on key promises, including securing more funding or streamlining adoptions. Ossoff’s team defended his record, calling Broce a "partisan political hack."
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Broce’s Criticisms
Broce, who has led DFCS for five years, accused Ossoff of overstating his contributions. She claimed he failed to secure additional federal funding or address federal laws harming group homes. "Ossoff didn’t get more funding for DFCS after calling us incompetent," she said on X. She also argued his ad misrepresented his impact on child welfare.
Ossoff’s Defense
Ossoff’s team pointed to his oversight work, including a report on foster care mismanagement. They accused Broce of "dangerous incompetence" and highlighted his bipartisan efforts with Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn. The ad references a yearlong investigation into the system.
Policy and Political Context
The foster care system in Georgia has faced scrutiny over mismanagement and neglect. Ossoff’s ad frames his work as a key part of his re-election campaign, while Broce’s criticism suggests political motivations behind his messaging. The exchange underscores tensions between state officials and federal lawmakers over child welfare policies.