As the 2024 election approaches, Georgia emerges as a crucial battleground state, pivotal for any candidate eyeing the White House. Following President Joe Biden's narrow victory in 2020, both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have intensified their campaigns in Georgia, recognizing the significance of voter turnout in shaping the election outcome.
Despite the record-breaking voter turnout in 2020, with over 150 million ballots cast nationwide, a substantial number of eligible voters, estimated at over 75 million, did not participate in the election. Studies indicate that nonvoters in 2020 tended to be individuals from lower-income brackets, younger demographics, minorities, and less educated backgrounds.
In Bibb County, a diverse region with a high poverty rate, the correlation between poverty and voter turnout becomes apparent. The county's demographics reveal a majority of minorities, a significant unmarried population, and a considerable percentage of residents under 30 with limited educational attainment.
The economic landscape of Bibb County, characterized by an 18.5% poverty rate, underscores the challenges faced by many residents. Organizations like the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank and Mother's Nest play a vital role in supporting struggling individuals and families through food distribution and essential services.
For many individuals grappling with economic hardships, voting may not be a top priority due to various obstacles such as past criminal justice issues, childcare responsibilities, transportation limitations, and a perceived disconnect between political discussions and their daily struggles.
Mother's Nest, a nonprofit established in 2022, offers crucial assistance to vulnerable populations, emphasizing civic engagement alongside practical support services. The organization's founder, Sabrina Friday, aims to address the immediate needs of individuals facing financial instability.
Recognizing the importance of engaging marginalized communities, advocacy groups like Black Voters Matter are working to shift the narrative towards addressing fundamental economic concerns like housing and food insecurity. Campaign efforts in Georgia are targeting low-propensity voters, employing traditional canvassing methods, social media platforms like TikTok, and community outreach initiatives to amplify voter participation.
As Georgia emerges as a key battleground in the upcoming election, the intersection of economic challenges and voter engagement underscores the need for inclusive strategies that resonate with all segments of society.
