As President Joe Biden courts voters in Georgia, once a key battleground state, some Black voters who propelled him to victory in 2020 are now expressing disillusionment with the Democratic Party’s performance, citing a surge in the cost of living and unmet promises on racial justice issues.

Wanda Mosley, national director of Black Voters Matter, a nonprofit group dedicated to increasing voter turnout and registration among Black voters, emphasized the need for their concerns to be heard and addressed. Mosley, instrumental in mobilizing thousands of Black voters in Georgia during the last election, noted a growing sentiment of frustration among her community.

Despite past efforts that delivered victories for Democrats, including Biden’s win in Georgia and the Senate, questions linger over the party’s commitment to crucial issues like voting rights and combating white supremacy. A Pew Research Center poll revealed a divided opinion among Black Americans regarding Biden’s performance, with 49% disapproving and 48% approving.

The upcoming primaries in Georgia serve as a litmus test for Biden’s appeal among Black voters, who historically form a cornerstone of the Democratic Party’s support base. With opinion polls indicating a closely contested race between Biden and potential Republican challengers, turnout among Black voters in key battleground states remains pivotal for Democratic prospects.

However, concerns are emerging regarding a disconnect between Biden’s messaging and the realities faced by Black communities. Civil rights leaders and voting rights advocates highlight a lack of awareness among voters regarding Biden’s actions benefiting Black Americans, such as healthcare expansions and economic gains leading to record low unemployment rates.

Notably, Biden’s appearance on civil rights leader Al Sharpton’s radio show in January aimed to amplify his initiatives targeting Black communities. However, Sharpton acknowledged a widespread lack of awareness among listeners regarding these efforts, underscoring the importance of robust outreach and engagement.

Healthcare access, voting rights, and addressing systemic racism remain pressing issues for Black voters in Georgia. Despite efforts by Democrats, including proposed voting rights legislation, obstacles persist in enacting comprehensive reforms.

While some campaigners acknowledge ongoing efforts by Biden’s campaign to engage Black voters, others caution against complacency. Nsé Ufot, former CEO of the New Georgia Project, highlighted the state’s significance and stressed the need for sustained outreach efforts.

As Biden navigates the complexities of retaining Black voter support, the upcoming primaries and the ensuing general election will serve as critical tests of his administration’s ability to address the concerns of one of its most loyal constituencies. In a political landscape marked by uncertainty, the fate of Biden’s presidency hinges on his ability to bridge the gap between promises made and realities faced by Black Americans.