By: Lansing City Clerk Chris Swope
Tuesday, November 6 is Election Day, I wanted pass along information to assist you to make the voting process as easy as possible as allowed by law, so that your voice can be heard in our democracy.
Before going to the polls, visit Lansingmi.gov/clerk or call 517-483- 4133 if you have questions. You will discover links to:
• Voter Registration Verification & Polling Location (with a map!)
• Preview YOUR Personal Sample Ballot
• Absentee Ballot Request Forms
• Links to Nonpartisan Voting Resources
• Poll Watchers and Poll Challengers Summary of what they are allowed and not allowed to do.
I recommend taking a few minutes to review the ballot and make sure you know where you vote on November 6. It can save you time, and help you make informed choices. Many people often incorrectly believe that they are unable to vote. Citizens who have served their time in jail or people who have moved within the City are STILL able to vote. Don’t assume that you are unable to vote. Visit lansingmi.gov/clerk and click the “Am I Registered to Vote?” link or call my office to see if you are registered and where to vote at. Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Anyone in line at 8 p.m. has the right to stay in line and vote before the precinct can close.
We have a link to the League of Women Voters’ website, Vote411.org, which is a very helpful resource for nonpartisan information on the proposals and candidates. Election workers at a precinct are not allowed by law to explain the purpose of a ballot proposal or answer questions about candidates ensuring that our workers do not bias a voter in any way.
No Longer able to vote for Straight Ticket
Due to the elimination of straight-party voting, voters will need to mark their candidate choice in each one of the partisan races on the ballot. If you do make a mistake, you have the right to spoil your ballot and get a new blank ballot to start over to ensure your votes are recorded.
Please be aware that Proposal 3 is on the ballot and among other items would restore straight ticket voting if passed. Therefore, straight ticket voting could return as an option after this election.
