By Milton Kirby – Atlanta, GA – November 5, 2024

As dawn broke on November 5th, voters across the United States began lining up to cast their ballots, eager to participate in what some see as a critical election for the future of the country. Polls opened at 7:00 a.m. and will close between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. in various jurisdictions. In some areas, lines began to form well before 6:30 a.m., underscoring the commitment of many Americans to make their voices heard.

At the polling place located at the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in South DeKalb County, Georgia, voters expressed various thoughts and emotions as they exited the voting booths.

Terrance Olive, a Rockdale County resident, cast his ballot on the first day of early voting. Today, he returned to the polling site to support his wife, who is working as a poll worker. Reflecting on the campaign season, Mr. Olive said he felt relieved that Election Day had finally arrived, as it marked the end of a relentless barrage of political advertisements. He expressed optimism about a smooth transition in leadership, confident that the country would avoid the heated discourse seen in 2020.

For 43-year-old Ja’Ron Clark, this election marks a personal milestone: his very first-time voting. His decision to participate came after persistent encouragement from his mother. Mr. Clark prepared for his vote by watching the recent presidential debate, eager to understand each candidate’s platform.

Learning about his family’s history, particularly discovering in his thirties that his grandmother had been a house-enslaved person, has profoundly impacted him, shaping his understanding of civic duty and motivating his participation.

Another voter, Konrad Crowder of Lithonia, Georgia, shared his perspective. An experienced voter in both local and national elections, Mr. Crowder expressed confidence in Vice President Harris, saying, “I tend to believe more in what Harris says and that she will stand by it.” He expressed doubts about the sincerity of former President Trump’s policies, voicing concerns that his focus seemed to benefit “his rich friends.” Crowder, like many others, found the voting process straightforward and efficient.

As the day continues, voters nationwide will cast their ballots, each vote contributing to a potential turning point in the country’s future. For many, November 5th is more than just a date on the calendar – it’s a day to make a change.