LANSING (WKZO-AM) — State Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker said she voted in favor of a bill approved in the Senate last week that will forbid straight-ticket voting in Michigan.
The Republican said the option is convenient, but also said banning the practice forces the electorate to be informed.
“Eliminating straight-ticket voting, I think, makes the process more about the people and less about the political parties,” Schuitmaker said.
She also said there aren’t many states left that allow the option.
“We’re one of 10 states that permit this,” Schuitmaker said. “I think, if people know more about who they’re voting for, it’ll strengthen civil discourse.”
Democrats cite the loss of convenience as one of the reasons they oppose the bill.
Another possible reason? Election officials say straight-ticket ballots in Michigan historically favor Democrats over Republicans.
The bill is being considered in the House.
– Anthony Pollreisz
