Early Voting Commences in Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan
September 26, 2024 – A decisive moment in the 2024 US election has commenced as the states of Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan kickstart early voting today. Important information regarding the voting process and key electoral races for each state are provided below.
Early Voting Trends in Michigan
Michigan, a former stronghold for President Trump in 2016, later flipped to support President Biden. The state has since continued to swing in favor of the Democrats, with the election and re-election of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and a triumphant state government trifecta in the last midterms. However, this state remains competitive. High-quality polls indicate a 2 to 5 point advantage for Harris, a figure that remains within the margin of error. A keen observation of the voting trend in southeastern Michigan and Kent County is worth keeping an eye on.
Michigan’s Upcoming Key Races
Michigan also inches towards electing a new senator following Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow’s decision not to seek re-election. Democratic House Rep. Elissa Slotkin aims to maintain a Democratic victory in the competitive senatorial race against GOP candidate and former Rep. Mike Rogers. Current projections rate both the presidential and senate races as Lean D.
Key Downballot Races in Illinois and Michigan
The launch of early voting today marks an important juncture in four highly competitive U.S. House races in Illinois and Michigan. A few districts to watch closely are Michigan’s 7th and 8th districts, Michigan’s 10th district, and Illinois’s 17th district. Each of these districts hold significant influence over the final outcome of the election.
Voting Guidelines
As for the voting guidelines, you can refer to Vote.gov for comprehensive information on voter eligibility, early voting processes, and deadlines in Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan. It is pertinent for citizens to understand the different conditions for absentee voting, early in-person voting, and voter registration in these respective states.
Voters in Illinois and Michigan can register online, while Floridians have the option to register online, via mail, or in person. North Dakotans enjoy even greater flexibility as they can vote without prior registration.
All four states have embraced a no-excuse mail voting policy, catering to absentee voters. Deadlines for application and ballot delivery range between Oct 24 to Nov 5. The start dates for early in-person voting vary by county and state.
Future Implications
As the first wave of early voting begins in these four states, the impact of these initial ballots on the future course of the election is yet to unfold. Voters are encouraged to exercise their democratic right and participate in the shaping of their nation’s future.
