Former President Bill Clinton returned to Georgia on Monday, encouraging voters to support Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming Election Day. His visit followed a Sunday appearance at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Albany, where he urged congregants to back Harris’s campaign.
During his speech, Clinton emphasized the importance of unity and building connections, referencing the biblical prophet Isaiah. He stated, “Blaming, dividing, demeaning — they get you a bunch of votes at election time, but they don’t work.” Despite the church not being at full capacity, Clinton received a warm welcome, with attendees giving him a standing ovation.
Many in the audience were older, but younger voters were also present. Takisha Campbell remarked on the significance of having Clinton in the community to promote voting, particularly among young people, emphasizing the need for increased voter turnout in southwest Georgia.
Georgia’s electoral significance is highlighted this year as one of seven states crucial for presidential candidates. Democratic turnout, particularly among Black voters, is seen as vital for securing the state’s 16 electoral votes. Clinton noted that Joe Biden’s victory in Georgia against Donald Trump in 2020 marked a significant shift, being the first Democratic win in the state since Clinton himself in 1992.
In a nod to history, Clinton recalled his own campaign efforts with then-Senator Al Gore, who traveled through rural Georgia to engage voters. He likened that strategy to Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s recent visits to parts of the state, albeit in a different region.
Reflecting on Albany’s historical significance in the Civil Rights Movement, Clinton lamented the current polarized political environment and criticized misinformation in politics. He referenced a controversial claim by U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, attributing Hurricane Helene to Democrats, and described Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance, as overly compliant with the former president.
Clinton highlighted Harris’s achievements and her role in Biden’s initiatives, particularly in reducing insulin costs and creating economic opportunities for first-time homeowners. Attendee Regina Whearry expressed a desire for greater awareness of Clinton’s visit, noting the importance of addressing policy and scripture in a region with low voter turnout, especially among Black males.
Despite Clinton’s past popularity within southern Black communities, questions remain about his continued ability to inspire younger voters. He articulated the stakes of the approaching election, stressing the impact on those undecided about voting.
Recent polling indicates that Black registered voters generally view Harris favorably while holding negative opinions of Trump. However, there remains uncertainty among many Black voters about whether Harris’s leadership would positively affect their lives and the country as a whole.
Clinton also spoke at the Harris campaign’s Albany office, expressing a preference for visiting rural areas, where he feels most comfortable.