Betty Cartledge, an 81-year-old woman from Covington, Georgia, voted for the first time in her life after the passing of her husband, who had discouraged her from voting throughout their marriage. Cartledge, unable to read or write and long believing her vote wouldn't matter, decided to make her voice heard in the 2024 presidential election after her husband's death last year. Accompanied by her niece, she expressed satisfaction with the voting experience and vowed to participate again. Her story has resonated widely, sparking discussions about women's voting rights and the influence of controlling spouses. This milestone for Cartledge occurred against the backdrop of record early voting turnout in Georgia, a key battleground state.