With the U.S. presidential election a week away, hundreds of thousands of voters in Michigan have already made their voices heard.
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, whose department oversees elections in the Wolverine State, reported on Monday that over 145,000 registered voters visited an early voting place on Saturday, the first day of early voting.
Benson said the first-day numbers shattered even the most optimistic predictions.
"I’m thrilled to see so many enthusiastic Michigan citizens turning out all across the state in record numbers to make their voices heard," said Benson in a media release. "We’re starting a new tradition of early voting here in Michigan, so we don’t just have Election Day, we have Election Days and options that let you decide what’s most convenient for you."
In 2022, Michiganders passed a constitutional amendment creating an early voting period, a minimum of nine days before Election Day. Next Tuesday's presidential election is the first general election under this new law.
City clerks may also begin early voting at least 28 days before an election in their communities. For example, the City of Detroit started early voting on October 19.
Eligible Michigan voters can register for next week's election up to 8 p.m. next Tuesday by providing proof of residency at their city or township clerk's office.
As of 8 a.m. on Tuesday, the Secretary of State reported that 1.6-million Michiganders had submitted absentee ballots.
In Wayne County, which includes Detroit, over 377,000 voters requested an absentee ballot. In St. Clair County, including Port Huron, there were less than 36,000 requests.
Voters are being asked to mark their choices for President and U.S. Senator, the latter of which is an open seat caused by the retirement of Debbie Stabenow.
All 13 of Michigan's U.S. House seats are up for grabs, along with all 110 of Michigan State House seats.