ATLANTA — Former Vice President Kamala Harris joined Atlanta leaders for an NAACP town hall at Elizabeth Baptist Church, encouraging Georgians to make informed decisions as the midterm elections approach.

The NAACP’s “We the People” town hall brought together Harris, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson as part of an effort to increase voter participation, including engagement among Black voters.

During the event, Harris emphasized the importance of what she called “transactional voting,” encouraging voters to consider what they expect from their elected leaders.

“In addition to honoring the ancestors, we let folks know we expect to get something from our vote,” Harris said.

The former vice president also expressed optimism ahead of Election Day.

“The range of emotions from anger to sadness to frustration. That phase is over,” Harris said.

Dickens encouraged attendees to remain involved in their communities beyond the election.

“With all of these wonderful leaders that are on the ballot that we’re supporting, we need you to keep showing up for the work of building a city and a nation where every family and every child can thrive,” Dickens said.

Johnson also urged Georgians to consider the long-term impact of their votes, particularly on future generations.

“With a determination to recreate what it should be, and it should reflect more of our needs and interests so we’re not exploited, that we are seen as full citizens, and we are ensuring that our children and grandchildren have a prosperous future,” Johnson said.

Harris is among several prominent political figures who have visited Georgia ahead of the midterms, including former President Barack Obama, President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Friday, Oct. 30, is the final day for Georgians to vote early. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.

WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons & Jordan D. Brown contributed to this story.