High impact. Low Turnout.
Why May elections matter
Most Georgians hear about elections in November. Ads run. Flyers arrive. Phones ring. Very few of us hear anything about the May primary. This lack of information matters.
May election
There’s an election in May that nobody talks about. Here’s who is chosen in that election:
November Election
There’s an election in November that everyone talks about. Here’s who is chosen in that election:
In 2024, only one of georgia’s u.s. House races were decided in November. The other 13 were decided in the primary.
Voter Gap
When we don’t hear much about an election, fewer of us show up to vote. When fewer people vote, a smaller group ends up calling the shots. When that happens, it’s harder for everyday Georgians to make their voices heard and for elected officials to be accountable.
This isn’t because people don’t care. It’s because the process feels easy to miss.
61%
15%
of the voting age population participated in 2024 Primary Elections
of the voting age population participated in 2024 General Elections
few Georgians vote in primaries
Only 1 in 7 eligible Georgians showed up to pick the candidates in 2024
Source: Georgia Secretary of State
4x
Your vote’s relative power in a primary vs. a general election
low turnout impacts every Georgian.
No Real Competition
Most Georgia districts are safely red or blue. That reality means the primary election often decides the outcome, not November.
Lawmakers Ignore the Majority
When only a small share of voters participate, elected officials focus on those voters. The priorities of most Georgians go unheard.
Weaker Candidates and Partisan Extremes
As fewer people participate, strong candidates choose not to run. Lawmakers prioritize winning their next primary over representing their constituents, leading to gridlock and declining voter enthusiasm.
WHY DON’T PEOPLE VOTE?
Primary candidates receive less media coverage, making it harder to find information about candidates.
1
Lack of Information
Most Georgians don't realize primaries decide who represents them. They think November is what matters.
2
Lack of Awareness
There's cultural expectation to vote in November, but primaries don't get the same attention.
3
Less Social Pressure
WHY You should vote.
Primaries Decide 90%+ of Races
Most Georgia state house and senate members are decided in the primary, not the general election.
Your Vote Counts More
Most Georgians don't realize primaries decide who represents them. They think November is what matters.
You Choose Who Represents You
Primaries let you decide which candidates appear on the November ballot—before the choice is made for you.
We’re here to help
Your vote in the primary is the most important vote you cast in Georgia.
