Georgians are preparing to cast their ballots in the Presidential Preference Primary set for Tuesday, February 5.

The primary marks the state's first step in making its voice heard in the election of the 44th president of the United States.

With issues ranging from the fair tax to the war in Iraq, we, at The Lincoln Journal, thought it would be interesting to question local residents about what they are looking for in our next president. Some of their responses are as follows:

Nelson Brooks: "Having worked for the federal government and not having to meet a bottom line, I'd look for somebody with business sense." LaRone Smith: "I would like president with common sense, at least this time - someone who really loves America."

Virginia Drennan: "I want a president who will help out the seniors more. They've kind of forgotten us."

David Griffin: "I want somebody who supports the fair tax and is strong on national defense, the 'War on Terror,' and securing the borders."

Brandon Giella: "I'm looking for a president who's not trying to turn our country into a socialist government. I don't want a president who's going to take all of my money when I work for it. I want to keep the money I work for, and I want to choose my own doctors."

Shawn Davis: "I want a president who will bring us out of this recession. I'm also looking for someone who will revise the 'No Child Left Behind Act' to provide the resources needed to address problems in the real world."

Patricia Bennett: "I am looking for a good and honest person, somebody we can depend on to do the right thing."

Henrietta Young: "I want an honest, Christian president - one who will see to it that everybody has health insurance." Todd Ware: "Let's put it this way: voted for McCain. He was a POW for six years in Vietnam and can make the tough decisions." (Ware, a former resident of Lincoln County, is now living in Greenville, South Carolina.)

Candace Marshall: "I am looking for a president who is truthful - someone our country can depend on in time of need. I'm looking for someone to bring our troops home from overseas and help the homeless. Really, I am just looking for a change in the world."

Al Bean: "I'm looking for a person who has the welfare of all of the citizens in every income bracket at heart. I also want him to address the problem of America's position in the world. Right now, it's not too good."

Kendrick Anthony: "I am looking for a president who is able to lead, make progress, improve the economy, and make a positive impact on society."

Mamie Garnett: "I am looking from someone who will be committed, dedicated, and loyal to all of the people - a person who demonstrates democratic ideals."

Carlene Douglas: "I want a president who will take care of the homeless - they shouldn't be on the streets. Everybody should have somebody taking care of them. Also, the president should love God first and everybody else later. If you love God, you will do the right thing."

Anne Price: "I want a president who will make America and its people the number-one priority. We need to help other nations whenever we can but home should come first."

Abigail Minor: "I look for someone who will defend the common man or woman in Washington and who can unify the people, transcending political boundaries in favor of true leadership."

Ernie Norman: "I want a president who is honest and committed to making a difference. My hope is that he will be able to unite us as a country."

Claudine Williams: "I want a president who won't take four years to change the things he promised to change."

Joshua Hollimon: "When I think about a president, I want somebody with good morals, who will look out for middle class people. Also, I want the president to be a Republican."

Kimber Kirkland: "I am looking for a president who is a Christian, has a clear vision of where he thinks our country should be in the future, has the ability to relate to the citizens easily, demonstrates Christian morals/ values, has realistic ideas to help our economy, does not put down other candidates, and is a sincere person."

Jason Raiford: "I'm looking for somebody who's going to do their job in government; however, they need to let industry and individuals be responsible for themselves. Basically, I'm in support of anybody who favors the fair tax and respects the Constitution."

Kelvin Williams: "At this point, political experience is the key to a successful president. Although a drive for great change sounds good, I would rather put my faith in an experienced driver."