News 12 at 6 o'clock, February 8, 2010

AUGUSTA---Senator elect Hardie Davis took the oath of office Tuesday. The legislative session is already 14 days into this year's session.

"I am a very proud wife of Hardie Davis Jr," said Evett Davis.

It's was a family affair.

"We'll keep praying for him," said Hardie's parents. "We'll be glad to see him when he comes home."

Davis is headed to Atlanta where the legislative session is well underway.

"I feel like I come in not having been there for 14 days," noted Davis.

One of the top issues he will tackle is what to do with the abandoned Golf and Gardens property.

"We've got to get it into Augusta's hands," said Davis. "I am committed to that."

"Will that happen this session," we asked.

"It will," said Davis.

Even if the city secures the property what will be a home run strategy for the property?

"What about the mayor's proposed baseball stadium," we asked Davis.

"Again if the community decides that it is in the best interest of our community," said Davis. "Then I think the community will have spoken loud and clear."

What about the city charter? Do we need to change the charter?

"I don't think that is an issue at this point," replied Davis.

"We've got enough to deal with in our economy," said Davis. "Folks need jobs, jobs, jobs."

The state faces a $1 billion shortfall.

"Realistically the citizens of Augusta will tamp the expectations down," said Davis. "We are going to represent Augusta making sure that we get our fair share. We're committed to doing that."

Davis is expected to get committee assignments Tuesday. Davis has to run for re-election again this fall.