Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 6
By Sheri L. Stuart, Staff Writer
Poll workers can expect to be busier this year than in previous midterm elections. Voter turnout for the Tuesday, Nov. 6 general election is expected to be high across the county. The state of Michigan could set a new record with an estimated 4 million voters coming to the polls. Genesee County Clerk John Gleason said local participation is expected to be high too.
“We expect voter turnout to be way above average,” said Gleason. “We want everyone to be reminded that straight-ticket voting has been banned,” he said. “Many of our poll workers are seniors. We’re asking that everyone be respectful of poll workers on election day,” he said.
Earlier this summer, the U.S. Supreme Court denied a request to preserve straight-party voting in Michigan. This means voters will not be able to choose all a party’s candidates with just one bubble on a ballot in Tuesday’s election.
Poll Hours
Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters can check their registration status, see their sample ballot, and find their polling place by visiting www.Michigan.gov/vote.
Identification
Michigan law has a voter identification requirement at the polls. When you go to cast your ballot, you will be asked to produce photo identification. The requirements are the result of a 1996 law determined to be enforceable by the Michigan Supreme Court in 2007.
The following types of photo ID are acceptable:
- Michigan driver’s license or state-issued ID card
- Driver’s license or personal identification card issued by another state
- Federal or state government-issued photo identification
- U.S. passport
- Military ID with photo
- Student identification with photo from a high school or accredited institution of higher learning
- Tribal identification card with photo
The ID does not need your address. If you do not have photo ID or do not bring it with you to the polls, you may still vote. Simply sign an affidavit stating that you are not in possession of photo identification. Your ballot is included with all others and is counted on Election Day.