The Michigan primary election is fast approaching! This year, in-person voting will be held on Tuesday, August 2. And that means absentee ballots already began arriving in mailboxes (45 days prior to election).
On this year's ballot are members from both branches of the Michigan Legislature (the state House of Representatives and state Senate). Whether you choose to vote absentee or in person, get to know the candidates from lower metro Detroit before you vote by reading their responses (linked below) to key issues facing Michiganders.
Candidates in their own words
If you are unsure which state legislative or local districts you vote in, especially in light of new maps drawn in 2021, you can enter your home address and obtain a sample ballot when you visit the Michigan Voter Information Center.
STATE LEGISLATURE
Both the Michigan Senate (38 seats) and state House of Representatives (110 seats) are up in this year's election cycle. The primary election narrows the candidate field to the top Republican candidate and top Democratic candidate. Those two, and any third party candidate will appear before voters in the Nov. 8 election.
Here are candidates for seats in our coverage area of northwest metro Detroit, weighing in on key issues in their own words. (Note: Missing local races are awaiting responses or had no primary challenge).
Michigan state Senate District 5 - Canton, Livonia, Westland, Garden City, Inkster
Michigan state Senate District 6 - Farmington, Farmington Hills, Livonia, Redford, Detroit
Michigan state Senate District 14 - Salem, Northfield, Dexter, Chelsea, Jackson County
Michigan state House District 5 - Birmingham, Berkley, Oak Park, Detroit
Michigan state House District 21 - Novi, Farmington Hills, Lyon
Michigan state House District 26 - Westland, Garden City, Inkster, Romulus
Michigan state House District 54 - Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, Orion, Auburn Hills
LOCAL RACES
There are more items on the ballot than just the state legislatures. County commission primaries are taking place this election cycle, and several municipalities are asking voters whether or not they approve tax requests and other local measures.
Bloomfield Township police, fire millage - new request to replace two smaller taxes
Livonia roads millage - replaces, increases local streets tax already in place
Milford Village Council pay - request to increase monthly stipend
Milford Fire Department - tax request will fund full-time firefighters
South Lyon roads - new tax will fund local road repairs
Frequently asked questions
When are polls open? Polls are open on Election Day, Aug. 2, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. As long as you are in line to vote by 8 p.m., you will be permitted to cast your ballot.
Where can I vote? Voters can check with their local municipality on Election Day voting locations. Statewide information can be found at the Michigan Voter Information Center.
Is it true I can register the day of the election? Yes, you may register in person on Aug. 2 until 8 p.m. however it must be at your local city or township clerk's office and not at a polling place.
Can I still vote absentee in this election? Yes, you can. Absentee voter applications may be mailed to your local clerk or placed in secure drop boxes, if applicable. Your local clerk's office also offers in-person absentee voter opportunities beginning 40 days prior to any election.
What will my ballot look like? Voters may visit the Michigan Voter Information Center to view a sample of their ballot, verify voter registration information and track the status of absentee ballots.
