UNDATED (WKZO AM/FM) — Michiganders are now heading to the polls for the primary election. Polls are open their normal times from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Tuesday August 7th.
Here’s what you need to know before checking that ballot…
FUNDING ISSUES:
If you plan to vote today, make sure you complete the job and flip the ballot over. There you may find a funding issue.
In Kalamazoo County, there is a senior millage on the ballot. Mattawan Schools has a $19-million dollar bond issue on the ballot for school improvements. Cooper Township is seeking a fraction of a mil for operations, and 4 townships in eastern Kalamazoo County are seeking voter approval to renew funding questions for Libraries.
Statewide there are over 850 ballot questions for everything from schools, to fire equipment to roads and sewers to mosquito control programs.
ABSENTEE BALLOTS:
Kalamazoo County Clerk Tim Snow says the number of absentee ballots taken out for the primary election today is higher than usual.
He’s not sure if that suggests there is more interest in this election than most primaries but he adds that there are certainly more candidates and contests this time around.
On average, primary’s attract about 19% voter turnout, and it could be higher than that today.
It’s also not too late to get your absentee ballot counted if you were mailed one earlier.
Kalamazoo City Clerk Scott Borling says it’s due by the time polls close at 8 p.m. this evening.
GUBERNATIORIAL CANDIDATES:
In the race for Governor, 4 republicans are seeking their party’s nomination, Attorney General Bill Schuette, Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley, State Senator Patrick Colbeck and Dr. Jim Hines.
On the Democratic side, there are 3 candidates to choose from: former State Senator Gretchen Whitmer, Abdul El-Sayed, and Shri Thanedar.
This is also the first time that three parties will be represented, with the Libertarian Party joining Democrats and Republicans.
The two Libertarian candidates are Bill Gelineau and John Tatar.
STAY IN YOUR LANE:
Voters are being reminded that they must stick to one party in the primary election.
Every must vote as either a Republican, Democrat, or Libertarian.
Crossing over will invalidate the ballot and you would have to vote again.
Residents can find a voters guide, their polling place, and more at vote411.org.
VOTING ISSUES:
As voters take to the polls today, a national, nonpartisan organization is making sure every voter is protected.
Election Protection, led by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, is providing assistance to Michigan voters through their voter hotlines from 7 o’clock this morning until 8 o’clock tonight.
Volunteers will help voters with problems registering or voting, complaints, or any other important information needed to participate in elections in their community.
The Election Protection hotline is 866-OUR-VOTE and more information can be found at 866ourvote.org.
MORE INFORMATION:
Overall, voting information, sample ballots, polling locations and more can be found on the Michigan Secretary of State’s website.
Happy voting!
