Oakland County’s Primary Day Election: Here’s What You Need to Know
Tuesday’s primary ballot in Oakland County is packed with various candidates and ballot measures. Voters in Pontiac have the responsibility of deciding whether to adopt a new city charter. In addition, multiple communities will be deciding on millages for different sectors such as police, fire, public safety, libraries, parks and recreation. The results will narrow down the candidate list for the general election scheduled for November 5.
Weather Forecast and Voter Turnout
According to the National Weather Service’s White Lake Township office, voters may have to brave showers and possibly a thunderstorm. The expected voter turnout is difficult to predict but based on previous trends, it will likely lie between 19% and close to 35%. A host of factors, including the weather, candidates, and ballot questions up in each community could affect this.
Voting Hours:
Polls will remain open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in all jurisdictions. If you are not sure about your polling place location, you can verify it online.
Voting Eligibility:
Anyone who is at least 18 years old and is a U.S. citizen can cast their vote at their polling place until 8 p.m. Tuesday. Those who are not registered to vote or need to change their voter registration address should visit their city or township clerk’s office as early as possible on Tuesday to avoid long lines and delays. It’s worth noting that registration for voting will not be possible after 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
Voting Process:
If you’re voting at a polling place, remember that you can select a candidate from only one political party in a primary election. Voting for candidates from both the Democratic and Republican parties will result in a spoilt ballot and your vote will not be counted. If such a mistake is made, election workers at the polling place can issue a fresh ballot.
What To Bring To The Polling Place:
Voters are required to provide proof of their eligibility and residency. This could be a Michigan driver’s license or state ID or a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck or government check that shows your name and address. Another valid form of proof would be a document issued by a federal, state or local government agency.
Restrictions at the Polls:
Campaigning for a candidate or a ballot measure should be held at least 100 feet away from a polling place. It’s forbidden to carry partisan items into the polling place or to wear any election-related accessories. Soliciting signatures or signing petitions is also not allowed within 100 feet of a polling place.
Absentee Ballots:
These must be returned to your municipal clerk’s office by 8 p.m. on Tuesday. If you filled out an absentee ballot but haven’t returned it yet and would like to amend it, you can visit your municipal clerk’s office to get your old ballot spoiled and receive a new one.
After Tuesday:
Voting results will begin to be posted online shortly after 8 p.m. on Tuesday. At 9 a.m. on Wednesday, the County Election Certification Board will meet to validate the voting results.
