1.5 million Michigan voters request mail-in ballots

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — More than 1.5 million Michiganders have requested absentee ballots for the upcoming primary election.

As of Tuesday, 1,518,665 Michigan citizens have requested an absentee ballot or received one by joining the permanent absentee ballot list, which allows their local clerk to automatically mail them an absentee ballot for all local, state, and federal elections.

According to the Secretary of State’s office, that is 157,833 more requests than those submitted in 2020.

“In 2020, we saw our highest turnout elections in Michigan history,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

So far, 178,931 voters have returned their absentee ballots to be counted, exceeding the number at the same time in 2020 by 67,917 votes.

“It is thrilling to see we are on track to exceed those high turnout levels in 2024 and even more exciting to see voters engaged early at such significant numbers and committed to ensuring their voice is heard,” said Benson.

The Michigan Department of State offers resources for Michigan voters who would like to vote absentee or in-person.

Voters seeking information are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/Vote to request an absentee ballot and find early voting locations or traditional voting sites in their areas.

“No matter where you live or who you vote for, Michigan’s nonpartisan, professional election clerks and poll workers are ready to administer safe, secure elections so that every citizen’s voice is heard,” said Benson.

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