Impact of primaries
HIGH IMPACT, LOW TURNOUT.
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.
In 2024, only one of georgia’s u.s. House races were decided in November.
The other 13 were decided in the primary.
Less attention = Voter Gap
When we don’t hear much about an election, fewer of us vote, and a smaller group ends up calling the shots. That makes it 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 primaries are easy to miss.
only
1 in 7
eligible Georgians showed up to pick the candidates in 2024
But if you do show up, your vote has
4x
the relative power in a primary vs. a general election
Source: Georgia Secretary of State
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.
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.
We’re here to help
Your vote in the primary is the most important vote you cast in Georgia.
