On Feb. 27, voters from around Michigan will be casting their ballots in the Primary Election, marking another election ahead of the 2024 General Election in November. It can be tough to navigate an election, especially in the snowy wilderness of the UP. Whether you are a seasoned voter, or this is your first time voting, here are some resources that can help you navigate the Primary Election process.
In Michigan, the Primary Election is where voters choose their preferred candidate anonymously by casting secret ballots. This process allows for one candidate from each party to be represented during the General Election on Nov. 5, 2024. Non-Michigan residents can find polling locations and deadlines for voting in their state by going to their Secretary of State office’s website.
Michigan voters can register to vote or check their registration status by going to mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Home/Index. According to the Michigan Voter Information Center, “You can register at any time up to 8 p.m. on Election Day at your city or township clerk’s office. If you’re registering another way, your voter registration application must be received or postmarked at least 15 days before the election.”
After voters confirm their registration status, voters are set to vote using an in-person or absentee ballot. In-person polling options are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. In Houghton, the polling location is at the Houghton City Center: 616 Shelden Avenue, Suite 102. In Hancock, the polling location is the Hancock City Hall: 399 Quincy St. Hancock, Michigan 49930.
If voters are nervous a winter storm, class, snowed-in vehicle, or work may inhibit their ability to make their voice heard in the Primary Election, alternate transportation options or absentee ballots can decrease the stress of in-person voting. Public transportation options are available through Michigan Tech, and the cities of Houghton, and Hancock. All shuttle information can be found on the institutions’ respective transportation sites.
Voters can apply for an absentee ballot online, and it is recommended that absentee applications are submitted online at least 15 days before Election Day to ensure there is enough time to receive and return the absentee ballot.
February 27 will be here before we know it, and with these resources, voters can navigate the UP wilderness and make their voices heard. For more election information, visit the Michigan Department of State website by visiting www.michigan.gov/sos/elections.
