Georgia has once again taken center stage in the US presidential race, cementing its position as a fiercely contested battleground state after turning blue for the first time in nearly three decades in the 2020 election. With 16 crucial Electoral College votes at stake, the state could play a central role in choosing the next occupant of the White House.

This year, Republican candidate Donald Trump is campaigning aggressively in Georgia, centering his message on economic revitalization, tougher immigration policies and a tough stance on crime. His opponent, Democrat Kamala Harris, entered the presidential race after President Joe Biden withdrew, promising to lead a “new era” for the country. Harris is focusing her campaign on expanding support for the care economy, protecting abortion rights and safeguarding democratic institutions, aiming to build on Democratic gains in the state from 2020.

Georgia’s shift from a Republican stronghold to a swing state has been highlighted over the past two election cycles. In 2016, Trump claimed Georgia by a 5-point margin over Democrat Hillary Clinton. But in 2020, Biden turned the tables, narrowly winning the state by about 12,000 votes out of more than five million votes cast, securing 49.5% to Trump’s 49.2%. This razor-thin margin underscored Georgia’s new status as a competitive state where every vote counts.

Beyond the presidential election, Georgia’s polls include referendums on property taxes, part of a broader trend reflecting voters’ concerns about the escalating tax burden. Voters statewide will weigh three property tax measures, including one to cap the increase in home values ​​for tax assessments, a proposal with significant implications for homeowners amid rising costs real estate.

The state is also witnessing close races in its House districts. All 14 congressional seats are in play, with Republicans holding a 9-5 majority. While both parties are expected to retain their current seats, Democrats aim to reduce the Republican majority in the Georgia House, potentially reducing Party control. republican.