LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Early in-person voting began back on February 17th, and polling locations across the state still have a few more hours left before they close at 8 pm local time. With those 9 days of early in-person voting, this primary has come with a lot of extra work for election officials all across the state.
The Ingham County Clerk, Barb Byrum said that her office has been in constant contact with local clerks throughout the process. We know that over 1 million Michiganders have already cast their vote in this election, Byram said that in Ingham County 16% of voters have already turned in their ballot. She explained that the impact of that is being felt with a smaller crowd showing up to vote in person today.
Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson said turnout has been steady today, statewide. Since our first primary of the year usually has a smaller turnout than August and November elections, Benson said this primary has been a great opportunity for poll workers to get used to the new early voting system, in-person day-of registration, and no excuse for absentee voting, with the smaller crowd.
“It’s going to be a late night because we have really kept an eye towards security and making sure that our elections remain some of the safest and most secure in the country,” Byrum said. “Sometimes it does take longer than the average candidate would like to receive those unofficial results, but longer means that we’re doing our job and we’re making sure our elections remain safe and secure.”
Secretary Benson says that the eyes of the nation will be on Michigan throughout the entirety of this presidential election cycle, encouraging Michiganders to participate.
“We want citizens to know this is your chance to not just be heard, but to show the power of participation,” Benson said. “The power of showing up sends a message that you will hold elected officials accountable, that you are paying attention, and that you take seriously your vote in every election.”
While poll workers around the state begin counting votes, some of the first preliminary totals are starting to roll in. Polls have been closed for a few hours now, but local clerks say it could be a later night as the vote is counted. Official turnout numbers are still being counted, but Benson said that nearly 2,000 voters registered in person today.
Secretary Benson explained that absentee ballots received before today could be counted early, meaning in some areas the tabulating process could go faster, but that safety and security is the top priority while election officials get to work.
As precincts across the state count their votes, Benson emphasized the excitement and enthusiasm she saw from voters and election workers and said this is just kicking off the beginning of the 2024 election cycle in Michigan.
“We’ve got several months ahead and they are going to be noisy ones. This will undoubtedly be a defining year for our state and our country.” Benson said. “We in Michigan know that our votes will be impactful not just in our state, but nationwide. And I believe the votes of Michiganders cast throughout this year, and particularly in November, will define the future of our country.”
Secretary Benson said there is still a lot of work to do, and military and overseas absentee ballots will also continue to be counted for 6 days as long as they are postmarked before 8 pm on election day.
