Michigan Senate Candidate Withdraws, Leaving Absentee Ballot Questions
Michigan U.S. Senate candidate Mallory McMorrow has recently withdrawn from the upcoming primary elections, leaving her name on already-mailed absentee ballots. McMorrow’s departure from the race has put voters in a position where they can still make changes to their submitted or unsubmitted ballots.
How to Change a Submitted Ballot
If you’ve already submitted your ballot and wish to change it, you can do so by sending a signed written request to your city or township clerk. This request must reach the clerk’s office by 5 p.m. on Friday, July 24. Once your request is received, the clerk will mark your original ballot as “spoiled,” ensuring it will not be counted.
Ann Arbor city clerk, Jacqueline Beaudry, emphasized the importance of informing voters about this option and mentioned that her office provides the necessary forms for voters to request a new ballot. She highlighted that voters have until the specified deadline to make changes to their submitted ballots.
How to Change an Unsubmitted Ballot
If you haven’t turned in your ballot yet, you can spoil it in person at the clerk’s office until 4 p.m. on Monday, August 3. Additionally, you have the option to surrender your unsubmitted ballot at the polls and vote in person instead.
Washtenaw County clerk and register of deeds, Lawrence Kestenbaum, acknowledged that situations like this are infrequent but encouraged absentee voting for those who prefer the time to consider their choices. Kestenbaum likened absentee voting to a “take-home exam,” allowing voters more time to review their options compared to deciding at the polls.
Finding Your Clerk’s Information
If you need to contact your city or township clerk for any ballot-related concerns, you can easily find their information by filling out a form on the Michigan Voter Information Center website. By clicking on the “Your clerk” section, you can access the necessary contact details to address any questions or requests regarding your ballot.
