Updates About Elections

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) against Michigan’s Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Director of Elections Jonathan Brater, which alleged issues with Michigan’s voter registration database under the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA).

U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering ruled that the RNC lacked standing and found the claims unfounded, highlighting that the RNC’s calculations were inaccurate and did not support their assertions of an overpopulated voter registry. Judge Beckering emphasized that the NVRA aims to balance electoral integrity with the protection against voter disenfranchisement, a principle the lawsuit failed to uphold.

Former President Donald Trump achieved a decisive victory in Michigan, winning 49.7% of the vote and flipping key Democratic counties. This marks his comeback to the presidency, outperforming his 2020 numbers by securing more support in areas like Wayne and Macomb counties, which showed substantial shifts toward Republicans. Trump’s 2024 Michigan win represents a more commanding margin than his slim victory in 2016, with a 9-point pickup in Wayne County and a 6-point increase in Macomb.

Republicans also seized control of the Michigan House of Representatives, winning a 58-52 majority and breaking the historic Democratic trifecta that was achieved in 2022. Key victories included flipping the seats of four Democratic incumbents:

1. Rep. Nate Shannon (Sterling Heights, District 58) will be replaced by Rep.-elect Ron Robinson
2. Rep. Jim Haadsma (Battle Creek, District 44) lost to Rep.-elect Steve Frisbie
3. Rep. Jaime Churches (Wyandotte, District 27) will be succeeded by Rep.-elect Rylee Linting
4. Rep. Jenn Hill (Marquette, District 109) was upset by Rep.-elect Karl Bohnak

However, in the U.S. Senate race, Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin prevailed against Republican challenger Mike Rogers, making history with Michigan’s closest Senate race to date. Slotkin’s victory was a standout for Democrats, who faced steep competition amidst a red surge statewide. The swing state surprised many when former state Senator Curtis Hertel was defeated by his Republican opponent and former colleague, Senator Tom Barrett, for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Other notable results in the U.S. House include incumbent Hillary Scholten and current state Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet both overcame their Republican contenders for spots in the 3rd and 8th districts, respectively.

The 2024 August primary in Michigan is nearly upon us, with the August 6th Election Day already less than a month away! Whether you’re planning to vote early or on Election Day, knowing the following key information will ensure your vote counts:

1. Stay In Your Lane: In Michigan primaries, you must choose to vote for candidates from only one party on your ballot. Attempting to split your ballot between different parties will invalidate the partisan section of your vote.

2. Registering to Vote: If you’re not yet registered, you can do so up until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Bring proof of residence, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, to your local clerk’s office, or Register Online.

3. Early Voting: Take advantage of Michigan’s new early voting option from July 27 through August 4. Contact your local clerk or visit Michigan Voter Information for early voting locations and times.

4. Voting Absentee: All registered voters can vote absentee without needing a reason. If you’re on the permanent absentee list, ballots were mailed on June 27. Otherwise, you can Request a Ballot Online or from your local clerk’s office.

5. Track Your Ballot: Use the Michigan Secretary of State’s Tracking System to monitor your absentee ballot’s status.

6. Changing Your Vote: If you need to change your absentee ballot, you can do so by contacting your local clerk before specific deadlines. After these deadlines, changes may not be possible.