In Georgia, a critical swing state for the upcoming presidential election, some voters remain undecided. One such voter, Cameron Lewellen, a father of three from Dunwoody, reflects his uncertainty. Having voted for Joe Biden in 2020 after supporting Donald Trump in 2016, Lewellen is now contemplating his options with early voting approaching.
Lewellen describes the decision-making process as difficult, particularly given the growing diversity in the suburbs around Atlanta, which play a significant role in recent elections. After Biden won Georgia by barely 12,000 votes, Democratic Senator Raphael Warnock was reelected in 2022 alongside Republican Governor Brian Kemp, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the state.
He tuned into the recent debate, seeking clarity for his choice. Settling comfortably on his couch with a spread of pizza, he jotted down notes comparing both candidates, Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Lewellen has become disillusioned with Trump, particularly following the chaotic nature of his presidency and the January 6th Capitol attack, which raised concerns about government stability. While he acknowledges he knows Trump well, he has reservations about Harris, feeling she hasn’t earned his vote despite her position as vice president.
Although he felt Harris stumbled in the debate, particularly when asked about the economic situation, he was encouraged by her proposals for housing and small business tax incentives. Conversely, he was unsettled by Trump’s lack of remorse regarding January 6 and his comments on Harris’s identity, which Lewellen found offensive, reflecting on the personal experiences he and others have had related to race.
Following the debate, Lewellen notes a shift in his perspective; he feels more inclined to support Harris than before. Nonetheless, his concerns about the economy, as he searches for a job during a slow hiring period, factor heavily into his decision. He worries that if the economy worsens, he might need to reassess his vote.
Despite feeling pressed by others to finalize his choice, Lewellen values a thoughtful approach to understanding candidates and policies, recognizing the complexities each presents. Issues such as international conflict, abortion, economic affordability, and the state of democracy weigh on his mind, leading him to ultimately acknowledge the importance of this decision in considering the future.