Michigan Voters Face Decision on Constitutional Convention in 2026
In the upcoming 2026 election, Michigan voters will be tasked with a significant decision: whether to convene a Constitutional Convention to rewrite the state’s entire Constitution. This pivotal question, known as a “Con-Con,” appears on the Michigan ballot every 16 years, presenting voters with a unique opportunity to shape the state’s foundational document.
If approved, the Con-Con would mark a historic event in Michigan’s political landscape. Since the adoption of the current Constitution in 1963, voters have rejected the idea of a Constitutional Convention three times. However, with the current political climate in mind, there is speculation on whether this time will be different.
Eric Lupher, President of the non-partisan Citizens Research Council of Michigan (CRC), and Nancy Kaffer, Editorial Page Editor at the Detroit Free Press, recently discussed the potential benefits and risks of a Con-Con on the It’s Just Politics podcast. Lupher views the Con-Con as a rare chance to make thoughtful updates and structural changes to Michigan’s Constitution, while Kaffer expresses concerns about the potential divisiveness in today’s hyper-partisan environment.
What Happens If the Ballot Proposal Passes?
If Michigan voters approve the ballot proposal in the 2026 election, the process will unfold as follows:
- Delegates will be elected from each state House and Senate district in early 2027.
- The Constitutional Convention would convene in Lansing in October 2027.
- A newly drafted Constitution would then be presented to voters for their approval.
For those seeking more information on the Constitutional Convention process in Michigan, the Citizens Research Council offers additional resources. Additionally, retired Gongwer publisher John Lindstrom shares his insights on the Con-Con in the Detroit Free Press.
As discussions about the 2026 Con-Con question continue, individuals are encouraged to reach out with any inquiries by emailing politics@michiganpublic.org. To receive political updates from Zoe and Rick directly, interested individuals can sign up for the It’s Just Politics newsletter.
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