Voter outreach in full swing in metro Atlanta ahead of Election Day

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – James White III, a former prisoner-turned-prosecutor, was told in the 2016 election that he couldn’t vote.

“That was because they said I wasn’t finished with my probation,” he said.

White said he had already paid his dues to society and could have been offered the option to fill out what is called a felon affidavit.

“It says, ‘Yes, I’ve committed a felony and I’ve completed that sentence and now I want to vote,’” said White.

He said a certificate of sentence completion also helps. He is now making sure those who were locked up know that they can vote, as long as they have finished their sentence or probation.

“There are so many people who have felony convictions that are done with probation. That means there are a ton of people out there ready to vote,” said White.

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Nonprofits like New Georgia Project are also reaching out.

“Our goal is really to reach that hard-to-find voter,” said Stephanie Jackson-Ali, policy director of New Georgia Project.

They will be offering free rides to the polls on Election Day.

“These are often seniors who are unable to drive themselves, or members within the disability community,” said Jackson-Ali.

The nonprofit is also spreading the word to young adults.

“They might be moving apartments frequently. They are working jobs with particularly irregular hours,” Jackson-Ali said.

Both Gwinnett and Fulton counties said they’re ready for any voter who shows up Tuesday.

“We are going to run the best election in the United States of America tomorrow morning,” said Robb Pitts, chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

Gwinnett County is also beefing up election security, adding more police officers around the county.

This is happening as all eyes are set on battleground states such as Georgia.

If you are a convicted felon hoping to learn more about your voting rights, Georgia Justice Project can help. They can be reached at 404-827-0027 ext. 248 or Ann@GJP.org.

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