While the spotlight has largely been on the presidential election, it’s crucial to recognize other significant races taking place this year. The Georgia Senate runoff election in January is one such event. In these races, a candidate must secure at least 50 percent of the vote to win, a threshold not met in two contests. Currently, Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock are challenging incumbent Republican Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler. Their success could result in a 50-50 split in the Senate, which is vital for President Joe Biden to implement his agenda. Even if you’re not a Georgia resident, you can still make a difference.
Cast Your Vote
The most important action you can take is to vote. For Georgia residents, the voter registration deadline is December 7th. You can register or update your information online, by mail, or in person at any state or government office. If you prefer to vote by mail—especially important due to COVID—you must request an absentee ballot. Ballots are currently being mailed out, and you can request yours until January 1st. If you’re voting absentee, your completed ballot must be received or submitted by 7 PM on Election Day. In-person early voting starts on December 14th, with Election Day on January 5th.
Support Local Initiatives
When Georgia flipped blue in the Biden election, much credit was given to activists like Tasha Johnson and her organization, Fair Fight. After losing her gubernatorial race in 2018, Johnson has been focused on combating voter suppression and increasing voter turnout. She and Fair Fight are actively working on the upcoming runoff, making it a good idea to direct support their way. “We’ve seen what’s possible when we unite and work diligently,” she stated in a recent video. Additionally, numerous local organizations are on the ground, targeting specific demographics that typically don’t vote. Many of these groups, particularly those led by BIPOC, need financial support to continue their efforts.
Empower Grassroots Movements
As Jade Brooks from the grassroots organization SONG Atlanta pointed out, it’s common for people to rush to support high-profile races while neglecting ground-level organizing efforts that shape policy and culture. Supporting organizations like the Black Male Voter Project, which focuses on engaging non-voters from previous elections, can be impactful. Founder Mondale Robinson emphasizes that traditional campaigning methods don’t yield the desired results. Besides donating to Ossoff and Warnock’s campaigns, consider volunteering your time or engaging in phone banking, even if you live outside Georgia.
Leverage Social Media
Social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness. Even if you’re not in Georgia, sharing posts from local organizations can amplify their efforts. Retweeting and sharing content can help keep voter engagement high. Julius Thomas, chairman of People’s Uprising, noted the role social media played in energizing voters during early voting periods.
Engaging Young Voters
Mobilizing young voters is critical for the runoff. Organizations like The Civics Center highlight that 23,000 17-year-olds who were ineligible to vote in November can participate in January if they turn 18 by Election Day. Many youth-targeted initiatives are using social media to drive engagement, with groups like the New Georgia Project employing platforms like Twitch to reach younger audiences.
Become a Poll Worker
If you’re in Georgia and want to contribute beyond canvassing, consider serving as a poll worker. Though it comes with risks due to COVID, there is an ongoing need for poll workers, and compensation is often provided. Check your county’s election board for more details.
The stakes are incredibly high in this election, and it’s essential for everyone to contribute in whatever way they can. Whether you reside in Georgia or not, there are numerous ways to help make a difference in this critical moment.
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Summary:
The Georgia elections are pivotal for the future of American politics, especially with a potential 50-50 Senate. All citizens can engage—whether by voting, supporting local organizations, leveraging social media, or volunteering as poll workers. The involvement of young voters is also crucial, and efforts to mobilize them are underway.