Early Voting Kicks Off in Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan
Monitoring the Election Cycle on Multiple Fronts
Thrusting us forward into the 2024 election cycle, the states of Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan have initiated early voting. These four states all allow unrestricted mail-in voting, thus enabling their citizens to exercise their electoral rights efficiently.
Michigan: The Focal Point
Michigan, viewed as one of the most competitive states this cycle, has previously produced surprising outcomes. In 2016, the state favored former President Trump by 0.23 points, equivalent to a mere 10,704 votes. Subsequently, it has consistently leaned towards the Democrats, sealing a nearly 3 point win for President Biden, and delivering both the election and re-election of Governor Gretchen Whitmer. However, the race is tight this season, with polls indicating a lead for Harris of 2 to 5 points; a margin that falls within the range of error.
Key Aspects of Early Voting in Michigan
Michigan has seen a 2% population growth over the past decade, concentrated mainly in the Grand Rapids area. Conversely, the city of Detroit has experienced a decline in numbers. An exciting development for the state is the opportunity to elect a new senator, post the decision of Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow not to run for reelection. Hoping to keep the seat within the Democratic cadre, House Rep. Elissa Slotkin is a serious contender. She faces former Rep. Mike Rogers in what promises to be a competitive race.
Notable Downballot Races
Key downballot races spread across the early voting states include four competitive U.S. House races in Illinois and Michigan. Among the races to watch are the 7th, 8th and 10th districts in Michigan, besides the 17th district in Illinois. These races represent a blend of urban, suburban, and rural votes, with all being considered toss-ups, leaning either Democratic or Republican.
Guidelines to Voting in Illinois, North Dakota, Florida, and Michigan
The states have laid down their rules for voters. Early in-person voting and voting by mail have already begun in the aforementioned states. Procedures vouch for absentee voting, based on which, applicants do not need to provide a pretext to receive a ballot. All four states have drawn up deadlines for receiving a ballot application and the delivery of the actual ballot to state officials. Specific guidelines for registration, in-person voting on election day, and voter eligibility can be accessed on Vote.gov.
Michigan Steps Up Voting Measures
In Michigan, start dates for early in-person voting diverge by county. Residents can register to vote online or by mail till the third week of October. In-person registration is accepted anytime during early voting or on election day.
Florida Flaunts Flexibility
In Florida, start dates for early in-person voting again range by county. The residents can register to vote online, in-person, or by mail through the first week of October.
North Dakota’s Unique Approach
North Dakota, on its part, permits all eligible citizens to vote without prior registration. Here again, although early in-person voting in some counties commenced on Thursday, others may start later or might not offer early voting at all.
Illinois Initiates Voting
Illinois also began early in-person voting on Thursday, continuing through the first week of November. The state accepts online registration to vote till towards the end of October, in-person registration during early voting, and on election day.
