On this edition of “Closer Look,” WABE political reporter Rahul Bali shares recent developments in Georgia campaigns, early voting and what voters and politicians alike can expect from next week’s midterm election.
“The numbers are still relatively smooth … most people have had generally good experiences,” said Bali on early voting in Georgia, as turnout gets close to reaching two million early voters. “You go to different early voter locations, the number one thing that you hear is ‘it’s easier, it’s convenient, and I don’t want a headache on election day.'”
Bali also spoke on the appearances of former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Mike Pence in Georgia to campaign for gubernatorial candidates Stacey Abrams and incumbent Gov. Brian Kemp, respectively.
At each event, both Obama and Pence encouraged those who had already voted in their audiences to act as advocates in bringing more voters to the polls.
“In the Obama rally, look at the audience that was there; it was Black voters and young voters, which are key demographics. And the former president’s like, ‘I need you to go get more people. I need you to take people to the polls.’ And Mike Pence’s words was, ‘don’t let people go to the polls alone,’” Bali said. “They know the people in front of them are the faithful. You’re preaching to the choir. But their message is get more people out. Get the base out.”
