The primary is next Tuesday. But how many will take time on a hot August day and go to the polls? Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land estimates that out of the 7.2 million Michigan residents registered to vote, 1.4 million voters will cast ballots in the Aug. 5 primary.
Her estimate is based on past primary turnouts in presidential election years, absentee voter activity, information from local officials, and the number of races on the ballot.
Land reminds voters that since this is a primary election, ballots must be cast under one political party. Casting votes in a partisan primary for both Republican and Democratic candidates invalidates the partisan section of the primary ballot. Nonpartisan offices and proposals will appear after the partisan section of the ballot.
The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. next Tuesday and will be busiest before and after work. Land reminded voters that avoiding peak times may help them vote more quickly.
Voters will be asked to present photo ID at the polls (the address on which must match that on your voter registration card), such as a Michigan driver’s license or identification card. Voters who don’t have a Michigan driver’s license or identification card can show the following forms of photo ID, as long as they are current: driver’s license or personal identification card issued by another state; federal or state government-issued photo identification; U.S. passport; military identification card with photo; student identification with photo from a high school or an accredited institution of higher education such as a college or university; tribal identification card with photo.
Anyone who does not have an acceptable form of photo ID or failed to bring it with them to the polls can still vote. They will sign a brief affidavit stating that they’re not in possession of a photo ID. Their ballots will be included with all others and counted on election day.
The Michigan Voter Information Center at is a convenient resource for all voters. You can view a sample ballot prior to going to the polls. You will also find a map to your polling place, information on contacting your local clerk, and details on equipment, among other options. Additional election information can be found at the Secretary of State’s office.