Georgia’s “May Matters” campaign is continuing to gain momentum as early voting turnout surges statewide. More than 230,000 Georgians cast ballots during the first week of early voting — a 28 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022 — signaling strong engagement ahead of this year’s primary elections.

Supported by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce along with regional and local chambers across the state, the initiative encourages employers and businesses to take a simple but meaningful step: remind employees and customers to vote.

While primary elections often determine who ultimately holds local, state, and federal offices, voter participation in these races has historically lagged behind general elections. In many Georgia communities, primary elections effectively shape leadership decisions months before November — influencing everything from economic development and infrastructure to education, workforce priorities, and public safety.

“Businesses are among the most trusted institutions in our communities,” said Jansen Tidmore, Presdient & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “When employers encourage civic participation in a nonpartisan way, it sends a powerful message that every voice matters and every vote has an impact on the future of our communities.”

Research consistently shows voters are more likely to participate when they receive practical, nonpartisan information from trusted sources they encounter in everyday life.

To support those efforts, the May Matters campaign has created a series of free, nonpartisan communication toolkits and resources available at www.gamatters.us.

Georgia employers and local businesses can support participation by:

• Sharing early voting dates and election day reminders
• Encouraging employees to make a voting plan
• Posting nonpartisan voting resources in workplaces, newsletters, and social media
• Providing employees flexibility to vote before or after work shifts

The campaign emphasizes that encouraging voter participation is not about politics — it is about civic engagement and ensuring local voices are represented in decisions that shape the future of Georgia’s communities, businesses, and neighborhoods.

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, said: “Strong participation in primary elections is essential to maintaining a competitive economy and a thriving business climate in Georgia. The decisions made during primary elections often influence policy and leadership long before the general election. When more Georgians are engaged early in the process, it strengthens representation, supports economic growth, and helps ensure our communities are positioned for long-term success.”

Visit www.gamatters.us to learn more about the Georgia May Matters Campaign.MAC