Georgia NOW News for Monday April 27, 2026

  Georgia voters are heading to the polls as early voting kicks off for the May 19 primary and general elections. Counties across the state are opening polling locations through May 15, with officials expressing confidence in preparedness and election security.  At the same time, thousands of refugee and immigrant families in Georgia are facing new uncertainty after federal changes cut off SNAP benefits for certain non-citizens — including some granted asylum. Advocacy groups say they’re seeing a surge in emergency requests for help as families lose hundreds of dollars a month in food assistance, with even more cuts to Medicaid eligibility expected later this year. In central Georgia, researchers are turning their attention to a small but significant bird — the Prothonotary warbler. Students at Georgia College are tracking the species as a key indicator of wetland health, launching a first-of-its-kind study in the state to better understand its nesting and migration patterns amid habitat loss. And in Atlanta, city leaders are making a national pitch. The Democratic National Committee is considering the city as a potential host for the 2028 convention, with local officials pointing to Georgia’s political influence and cultural reach as key selling points. 🎧 Tune in 24/7 to Georgia NOW. Grab the app or listen online at heargeorgianow.com — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Georgia NOW News wherever you get your podcasts. #GeorgiaNews #Election2026 #SNAPBenefits #Atlanta #EnvironmentalNews