Who are you voting for?

As seniors, we’ve seen a lot in our lifetimes. We remember when voting was simpler, but we also understand something many younger folks overlook: primaries matter — a lot. Here in Georgia, the 2026 Primary Election is right around the corner, and it’s one of the most important times for us to show up and make our values count.

Early voting started Monday, April 27 and runs through Friday, May 15. Election Day is Tuesday, May 19. Mark those dates on your calendar right now. Polls are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Many people make the mistake of thinking, “I’ll just wait for the ‘real’ election in November.” Nothing could be further from the truth. In the primary, we choose the candidates who will actually appear on the November ballot. Skip the primary, and you’re letting someone else decide who your choices will be later. That’s not how engaged citizens — especially those of us who have earned our wisdom through decades of life experience — should operate.

This year’s ballot is particularly full. In my latest count, there are 49 candidates running for 15 different offices on the typical Republican or Democratic primary ballot, depending on your party affiliation. From statewide offices to local judges, school board members, and more — it’s a long list. How in the world are we supposed to sort through all these names and figure out which candidates best represent our values?

It’s a great question — and not an easy one without help. Doing deep research on every candidate would take weeks of full-time effort. Most of us don’t have that kind of time or energy anymore. But here’s the good news: help is available, and it’s remarkably easy to use.

I recommend iVoterGuide.com (sometimes shown as iVoterGuide). This nonpartisan, faith-based voter education website has done the heavy lifting for you. They research each candidate’s record, including:

• Voting scorecards
• Campaign contributions (who gave to them and who they gave to)
• Endorsements
• Responses to candidate questionnaires

They present the information clearly and fairly — without telling you who to vote for. You can read the detailed summaries if you want, or simply look at their easy-to-understand “Gage” rating that shows where each candidate falls on the spectrum from liberal to conservative. It’s an incredibly helpful tool for busy seniors who still want to vote with conviction.

Here’s how simple it is:

1. Go to iVoterGuide.com on your computer or smartphone.
2. Enter your home address.
3. The site instantly generates a personalized ballot with every candidate who will appear on the ballot when you vote.
4. Review the summaries and make your informed choices. I went a step further and printed it off so I can take a copy to the poll with me.

It has never been easier for our generation to vote wisely. No more guessing. No more wondering if you’re supporting someone whose values don’t line up with yours.

Fellow seniors, this is our time to lead by example. We know better than most how precious this privilege is. Many of us remember when voting wasn’t guaranteed for everyone. We’ve seen countries where citizens have no real choice. Here in the United States — and right here in Georgia — we still have the freedom to shape our future at the ballot box.

Don’t take it for granted. Don’t assume someone else will handle it. Get informed, get prepared, and get to the polls.

Early voting is still open until May 15 — that’s your easiest option if you want to avoid lines. If you prefer Election Day, I’ll see you at the polls on May 19.

Our voices matter. Our values matter. And our participation in this primary will help determine the direction of our state and our country for years to come. Let’s show the younger generations what responsible, informed citizenship looks like.

Now, go to iVoterGuide.com, print out your personalized guide, and let’s make this primary count!

Thanks for reading All About Seniors, see you next week!

Bill Milby is a Director of Visiting Angels® of Central Georgia, a non-medical, living assistance service for seniors. If you have questions or comments about this column you can reach him at william.mercylink@gmail.com or search for us at  https://www.facebook.com/VisitingAngelsofCentralGA