Michigan Holds Public Accuracy Tests of Voting Equipment Ahead of Midterm Elections
Local governments in Michigan are gearing up for the upcoming 2026 midterm election by conducting public accuracy tests of voting equipment before early voting begins. These tests are mandated by state law and are crucial in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Testing Procedures
In Grand Rapids, Clerk Joel Hondorp led the test by randomly selecting tabulators to test using dice. Each tabulator represented one of the city’s 59 precincts. The testing also included early voting tabulators and voter assist terminals to verify accuracy.
During the test, machines were unlocked, a code was entered, and a zero-vote confirmation receipt was printed. A “test deck” of ballots with intentional errors was used to check if the machines could handle discrepancies. The final step involved tabulating the votes and comparing them against the expected results.
Observer Confidence
Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons and former Republican governor John Engler were present during the test to verify the results. Lyons emphasized the importance of building trust in the election process, while Engler, now working with the Democracy Defense Foundation, praised the intricate and secure nature of the testing procedures.
Upcoming Voting Dates
Early voting in Grand Rapids starts on October 20, with statewide early voting beginning by October 24. Absentee voting is already underway across Michigan. The general election is scheduled to take place on November 3.
