(festive music) (people chattering) (solemn music) (audience applauding) - Well, good evening, everyone.

Thank you for joining Marty, the girls, and I at the Governor's Mansion tonight to welcome in the Christmas season.

I want to specifically thank so many families, also the Dobbins Air Reserve Band, and none other than Santa and Mrs. Claus for being here on this special occasion.

I have a plaque on my working desk in the office that says, "Tough times don't last but tough people do."

And we have all certainly endured some tough times here as of late.

But no matter what is going on in the world, celebrating the birth of our Savior turns our focus back to our true salvation, not in the world, but in Christ.

The book of Luke tells us the story of Christ's birth and how the Lord sent his only Son to be a light to the world, to carry hope to the hopeless, to be a Savior of all nations, and bring peace on Earth.

His word, his promises, and the true meaning of Christmas show us the way forward.

This holiday season, Marty, the girls, and I would like to encourage everyone to take some time to think about those who are not able to be with their loved ones during this holiday, our men and women in the military, our law enforcement officers, first responders, and the many healthcare heroes who will all be on call.

Please also remember the needs of our friends and neighbors and those who may have an empty seat at the table this year.

One year ago yesterday, an amazing young man by the name of Harrison Deal went to be with the Lord.

He was loved dearly by our daughter Lucy and the rest of our family.

Every single day, we continue to honor his legacy and the joyful spirit he brought to everyone who knew him.

Our family wishes all Georgians a safe and joyful holiday season, and we deeply appreciate all of you for taking time to be here with us tonight.

Merry Christmas, God bless you, and may God continue to bless the great state of Georgia.

Now let's light this tree.

Help us count down.

- [All] Five, four, three, two, one.

- Merry Christmas, everybody!

(audience applauding) Merry Christmas, everyone.

Enjoy the mansion.

(gentle music) (mellow music) (vibrant music) (festive music)