Vincent Mendes III

Vincent Mendes III's career experience includes working as a chiropractor.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

For most of my life, I haven't thought of myself as a politician. I've thought of myself as a servant.

I'm a chiropractor, and for years I've had the privilege of caring for people in Northwest Georgia. My work has taught me that listening is often the first step toward solving any problem.

My wife and I have built our lives here. We've raised our three daughters here, built a business here, worship here, and invested our future in this community. This is home.

I also serve as Chair of the Floyd County Democratic Party, where I've been reminded that people are much more than political labels. Throughout my career I've cared for Republicans, Democrats, independents, and people who avoid politics altogether. Despite our differences, most people want the same basic things: safe communities, good schools, affordable utilities, clean water, opportunities for their children, and leaders who genuinely listen.

When no one else stepped forward to run for House District 13, my wife and I decided together that I would. Running for office isn't about ambition for me—it's about continuing a lifetime of service. Whether as a healthcare provider, husband, father, church member, or community volunteer, I've always tried to serve where I'm needed. I hope to bring that same spirit of service, humility, and accountability to the Georgia House of Representatives.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Data Centers - The southeast is being bombarded with new data canters that have had little to no input from local communities. We are often told that these will bring "new jobs" but the truth is that once it's built, there are very few jobs created by the day to day running of a data center. This is a "bait and switch". The legislature needs to create guidelines to make sure any new data centers create no harm to the local community, mitigate any environmental impact, and guarantee that the taxpayers of GA are not subsidizing the water, power and infrastructure these projects will need.Smart Economic Growth - we need jobs that pay enough for people to afford to live and put a little in savings. Currently it is very hard to get work in NW GA that is sufficient to pay the expenses of a young family. I support economic development that brings good paying jobs, strengthens our local economy, and respects the needs of families and communities already here. I believe that we don't have to choose between good paying jobs and protecting our communities and natural resources, and we should actively recruit businesses that invest in our workforce. Also the process should be open, transparent and accountable. Growth means improving the lives of the people who live here, not just putting new buildings on the map!Infrastructure - this shouldn't have to be an issue, especially considering that our incumbent sits on the State Transportation Committee and the Appropriations Committee, but sadly, it is. Our roads in Rome and Floyd county are in poor shape. One small stretch on 2nd Ave downtown has been under construction for 2 years and we are told it will take another 2 to complete! As our community grows we need to ensure that our roads, bridges, and utilities keep pace. Also, as a side note, since rivers are often considered part of "infrastructure" I think that Rome is blessed with 3 rivers, and we should think of our riverfront areas as big draws, combining mixed use development, recreation and environmental restoration.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Healthcare, Environment, Education, Public Safety. Not necessarily in that order. Primarily, I believe that the government is there to serve the people, and that we, the people, should expect accountability from our elected representatives.