Get Ready, Detroit! Early Voting Kicks Off This Weekend!
Detroit, watch out! The excitement is building as early voting is just around the corner. Starting this Saturday, October 26, most communities in southeast Michigan will open their doors for early voting, giving you a head start on casting your ballot ahead of Election Day on November 5.
What’s New This Election Season?
This year is particularly special for Michigan as it has rolled out early voting options following a resounding approval of a proposal in 2022. This means voters now have the opportunity to vote early and avoid the crowds and possible long lines that often accompany Election Day voting.
Detroit got a jumpstart on the action last weekend, setting the stage for what’s anticipated to be a significant turnout for the general election. Early voting has been a game-changer and, with so many folks expected at the polls, being able to vote ahead of time could make all the difference.
When Can You Vote Early?
As per Michigan law, early voting can begin no later than October 26 and must run consecutively for at least nine days, wrapping up the Sunday before Election Day—so mark your calendars!
This year, you’ll have plenty of flexibility, as some communities, like Detroit, have chosen to extend their early voting period for up to 29 days. This is a fantastic opportunity for all residents to make their voices heard without the stress of last-minute voting.
Where Can You Vote Early?
Feeling curious about where to head for your early voting adventure? Wayne County has set up a robust network of 50 early voting locations, with 14 sites right here in Detroit. Here are some places you can drop by to vote early:
- Greater Grace Temple – 23500 W. Seven Mile Rd., Detroit, 48219
- WCCCD Northwest – 8200 W. Outer Dr., Detroit, 48219
- Northwest Activities Center – 18100 Meyers Rd., Detroit, 48235
- Palmer Park Community Center – 1121 Merrill Plaisance St., Detroit, 48203
- Farwell Recreation Center – 2711 E. Outer Dr., Detroit, 48234
- Heilmann Recreation Center – 19601 Crusade, Detroit, 48205
- Clark Park – 1130 Clark, Detroit, 48209
- Adams Butzel Recreation Complex – 10500 Lyndon, Detroit, 48238
- Kemeny Recreation Center – 2260 S. Fort St., Detroit, 48217
And don’t worry, if you live in other areas of Wayne County, there are many more convenient locations including sites in Allen Park, Livonia, and Southgate, among others. Just check with your local clerk to see what early voting locations are nearest to you!
Remember to Register!
Before you head out to vote early, make sure you’re registered! While you won’t be able to register at the early voting sites (unless it’s at a clerk’s office), you can check your registration status online. The Michigan Secretary of State definitely recommends getting registered ahead of time so you can just focus on making your voice heard.
How Does Early Voting Work?
voting process during early voting is just like voting on Election Day. You’ll receive a ballot, fill it out, and submit it into a tabulator right at the early voting site. It’s that simple! And if you prefer to vote absentee, you can still drop off your completed absentee ballot at any early voting site.
Enjoy the Vote!
It’s an exciting time to be a voter in Michigan! Early voting not only empowers you with flexibility but also helps alleviate the chaos of Election Day. So grab your friends and family, get informed about the issues, and make a plan to cast your vote early. Let your voice shine!
