DETROIT (WKZO AM/FM) — There will be a trial to determine if straight party voting should be allowed in Michigan. The Governor has signed a law ending the traditional practice of being able to check one box to pick all Democratic or all Republican candidates on a ballot.
It has never been implemented because Federal Judge Gershwin Drain issued an injunction blocking the law.
The Governor says it will inspire voters to do more research before they vote. County Clerks opposed the change, saying it would result in longer lines during November elections.
The plaintiffs say it discriminates against minority voters in more crowded urban polling places.
Nearly 50% of voters used the straight party option at the last presidential election. While the percentage has been statisticly higher for straight-ticket voting in Detroit where democrats dominate, it has been even higher in Ottawa County. where there are more Republicans.
