By Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Over the next 6 days, voters in communities across Michigan will vote early, turn in their absentee ballots, and vote at their polling places on election day. The right to vote is one of our most fundamental constitutional rights and responsibilities as Americans. Michigan is a swing state, and we will help decide this election—which is why every eligible voter deserves to be able to make their voice heard. I am committed to protecting everyone’s right to vote and have their ballots be cast and counted. Your voice matters, and I encourage every eligible voter to exercise their right to vote on the future of our state.
As Congressman John Lewis said, “your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful, nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union.” But according to the Brennan Center for Justice, at least 11 states across the U.S. enacted 13 restrictive laws in 2023—pushing voter ID laws, changing the rules around polling places, and making it harder to register to vote. The goal of these actions is clear: to systematically disenfranchise communities of color, seniors, and young people.
In Michigan, we are doing things differently. When the legislature proposed anti-voter bills in 2021, I vetoed them on stage at the NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner. Last November, I signed bills to address concerns related to artificial intelligence, make it easier to get to the polls, penalize those who seek to deceive voters using AI, and make our elections more efficient and safer. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist launched MI First Vote, an initiative to provide first-time voters with the resources they need for a successful first vote.
I’m proud of our bipartisan work to protect and expand voting rights. But now, it’s up to all of us to use our power to make positive change. In the run up to the election next week, visit Michigan.gov/vote to find your polling place, answer frequently asked questions, and connect with the resources you need to vote. Check your voter status and make a game plan. Talk to friends and family about registering and spread the word about resources that can make voting easier.
Presidential elections are exciting. They represent an opportunity for the American people to take democracy into their own hands and guide the country in the direction we want to go. When we vote, we make progress on the issues that matter, from civil rights to economic opportunity. When we vote, we make Michigan a better place to live, work, and raise a family. When we vote, we build a bright future for the state we all love. But it only happens when we vote. So, let’s make sure everyone has the resources and confidence they need to make their voices heard this election day.
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