Black Southern Baptist pastor Vivian Childs, a staunch supporter of Trump, recently held a workshop in Trump’s newly opened office in Valdosta, Georgia, teaching volunteers and campaign staff how to win over black voters in Georgia. She emphasized focusing on Trump’s economic policies, illegal immigration issues, and inflation.
Childs stressed the importance of informing voters about what Trump has done for them and the changes he will bring to America. She stated, “We are the party of hope; we are the party of truth.”
In the grand office building on the pillar-lined street, a sense of urgency filled the air. Trump himself acknowledged that Georgia has become a must-win state, particularly after Kamala Harris became his Democratic opponent in July, flipping what he thought was a secure state.
The race in Georgia, with its significant black voter population, has become a battleground as both candidates vie for support. The state’s demographics make it a key battleground state in the upcoming presidential election.
Charls is a member of the national “Black Americans for Trump” coalition. She acknowledged that Harris’ nomination initially changed the dynamics in Georgia, sparking excitement due to her being a black woman.
However, she believes this excitement is fading, urging voters to focus on Trump’s policies, accomplishments, and what he has done for all Americans.
According to Reuters, both campaigns are heavily targeting black voters in Georgia through various channels such as church events, county fairs, social media, and broadcast. The race is intensifying in Cobb County, a diverse suburb of Atlanta.
Democratic and Republican campaigns are actively engaging with the black community, advocating for their respective platforms and policies to secure their support.
The diverse population of Cobb County reflects the shifting political landscape in Georgia, from a historically Republican stronghold to a battleground state. With the rise in minority populations, the state’s political dynamics are evolving.
Harris’ candidacy has energized many in Georgia, with grassroots events and campaign efforts gaining momentum across the state. The competition for black voters’ support has intensified, with both campaigns investing heavily in advertising and outreach efforts.
Both campaigns have ramped up advertising spending in Georgia, with commitments exceeding 37 million dollars each. This highlights the critical importance both sides place on winning over black voters in the state.
The Georgia Black Republican Council Chairman, Camilla J. Moore, highlighted the council’s support for Trump and its targeted advertising focusing on immigration, economy, and anti-abortion sentiments.
Most of Trump’s ads criticize Harris on inflation and illegal immigration issues, positioning her as a dangerous liberal. His campaign has emphasized his track record in creating opportunities for the black community.
Data shows that during Trump’s presidency, the black unemployment rate reached a new low of 5.3%. In contrast, under the Biden administration, the rate dipped even lower, reaching 4.8% in 2023.
Harris’ campaign ads focus on reducing prescription drug prices, taxing big corporations and billionaires to fund housing, and tax cuts for working parents, appealing to working-class families.
The Harris campaign emphasizes early outreach to black voters in Georgia, aiming to address key concerns and improve the lives of all residents in the state.
Political analysts suggest that a higher percentage of black voter turnout for Trump in Georgia could potentially secure the state for him in the upcoming election.
Recent polling data from CNN revealed a narrow margin between Harris and Trump in Georgia, highlighting the significance of black voter support in the state in determining the election outcome.
Trump’s potential victory in Georgia could ease pressure in other battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. However, allegations questioning Harris’ racial identity could alienate some voters.
Trump’s past remarks questioning Harris’ racial and ethnic background have sparked criticisms of racism, leading some voters like Demetrious Hall to pledge their support to Harris against Trump.
Despite such criticisms, Charls, a staunch Trump ally, defended Trump’s economic policies and outreach efforts to historically black colleges and universities, highlighting reasons for voter support.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s victory over Stacey Abrams in 2022 demonstrated the potential for Republicans to increase black voter turnout, emphasizing economic issues and gun rights in their campaigns.
Businessman Bruce LeVell from Atlanta highlighted how Trump’s focus on economic empowerment resonated with minority voters, particularly in addressing financial concerns.
In a church in Austell, Pastor B. Dwayne Hardin preached a message of conservatism, warning against encroaching socialism and the need for change through the ballot box.
Hardin stressed the importance of voting for candidates who can bring about real change. While not explicitly endorsing Trump, he commended Trump’s stance on personal freedom, school choice, and economic empowerment.
He urged his congregation to not idolize race but to consider the values and policies advocated by candidates when casting their votes.