With just three weeks until the Georgia primary election and early voting going until May 15 , May Matters is calling on Georgia employers to play a simple but powerful role in strengthening their communities: encourage employees and customers to vote.

Primary elections often determine who ultimately holds local, state, and federal offices, yet participation is historically low. In many Georgia communities, primary elections effectively decide leadership long before the general election. That means decisions about schools, roads, public safety, local jobs, and the future of neighborhoods are shaped by a small fraction of voters.

“Businesses are trusted anchors in their communities,” said Marjorie Clifton, March Matters March Matters co-founder and IGC Institute board member. “A simple reminder about voting from an employer, a chamber, or a local business can make the difference between someone sitting out and someone taking part in decisions that affect their families, workplaces, and neighborhoods every day.”

Research shows people are more likely to vote when they receive clear, practical information from familiar, nonpartisan sources they already trust. Employers and community businesses can help by:

• Sharing early voting dates and election day reminders
• Encouraging employees to make a voting plan
• Posting nonpartisan voting information in break rooms, newsletters, or social media
• Giving employees flexibility to vote before or after shifts

Encouraging participation is not about politics. It is about healthy communities. The leaders chosen in primary elections go on to shape decisions that affect jobs, schools, roads, and the overall well-being of local families and businesses. When more people participate, communities are better represented and local priorities are more clearly reflected.

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce said:

“Strong participation in primary elections is essential to ensuring that Georgia’s business climate remains competitive and representative of the communities it serves. Decisions made during primaries often shape the direction of policy and leadership long before the general election. When more Georgians are engaged early in the process, it leads to stronger outcomes for our economy and our state.”

Early voting began on April 27 with historic turnout numbers,  now is the time for Georgia businesses to help ensure their employees and communities are ready to participate.