Michigan Sees Record Early Voting Turnout Ahead of Primary Election

Photo byElement5 DigitalonUnsplash

LANSING, MI — With Election Day just around the corner, Michigan has already seen a remarkable turnout, with over one million voters casting their ballots early or via absentee methods for the primary election. As polling places prepare to open statewide from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on August 6, the state’s election officials are praising the high level of voter engagement and the smooth operation of early voting processes.

Record-Breaking Early and Absentee Voting

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced that a total of 73,531 voters took advantage of early voting sites, while a staggering 970,000 voters submitted absentee ballots. This surge in early participation reflects a growing trend towards early and absentee voting, which many voters find more convenient.

“More than one million Michiganders have already cast their vote before the polls open on Election Day,” Benson said. “We’ve heard from many voters who appreciate having convenient early options to participate in our elections, and it’s great to see people engaged in the process. As always, I’m grateful to Michigan’s clerks and poll workers, who ensured a secure and smooth early voting process throughout the state.”

Impact of Proposal 2 on Voting

This year marks the first election with a constitutionally required minimum of nine days of early in-person voting, following the passage of Proposal 2 by Michigan voters in 2022. The early voting period concluded on Sunday, August 4, with Friday, August 2, being the highest turnout day, recording 11,085 ballots cast.

Absentee Ballot Statistics

A significant portion of the early votes came from absentee ballots. Out of the 1,638,830 absentee ballot requests, 970,041 have been returned for tabulation. This compares to 2020, where 1,288,025 absentee ballots were returned by the same time.

Important Information for Voters

Voters who have received but not yet returned their absentee ballot are advised to use official ballot drop boxes or hand deliver their ballots to their local clerk’s office to ensure they are counted. Mailing ballots this close to Election Day is not recommended. Absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted, except for military and overseas voters who have different deadlines.

Eligible residents who have not yet registered to vote can still do so in person at their city or township clerk’s office with proof of residency. Michigan law allows for same-day registration and voting.

Election Day Precautions and Resources

Polling places will be open on August 6 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters who experience any form of intimidation or interference at the polls are urged to inform their local clerk immediately and contact the National Voter Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE.

Voters can find their polling place, track an absentee ballot, or verify their registration status by visiting Michigan.gov/Vote.

Looking Ahead

As Michigan heads into Election Day, the record-breaking early and absentee turnout sets a positive tone for the state’s democratic process. The successful implementation of Proposal 2 and the seamless operation of early voting sites demonstrate the state’s commitment to making voting more accessible and convenient for all residents.

Election officials are hopeful that this trend of high voter engagement will continue, ensuring that the voices of Michigan’s citizens are heard loud and clear in the primary election and beyond.