The statisticians are reporting that Michigan’s voter turnout for the August 4, 2026 primary election was at or near record levels across the state. It shows just how important it is to exercise your right to make your voice count. It also shows just how contested political power is in this country right now. Both sides are motivated and engaged at levels seldom seen recently. We all want our candidates to represent us.

Or do we? In spite of the state’s high voter turnout overall, our county ranked second to last in voting this time around. Since these statistics are ranked by percentage, we don’t have the excuse of being a small county far from the centers of power. Your vote, and my vote, count just as much as the votes from individuals in the big cities, the east side of the state, and even in the capital of Lansing. But it only counts if we get out and vote.

Nearly 1/3 of voters in Michigan overall took this chance to express their opinions. Only 22% of the registered voters in our county headed to the polls this time around. People, we can do better! And we need to do better in the upcoming November election. Research your candidates. Research the issues. Then vote!!

Let’s see if we can outdo the rest of the state and pull that voter percentage up through the roof. Remember you can vote with an absentee ballot, you can vote early in our state, and you can head to the polls on Election Day (November 3, 2026). So many options! Look over candidate’s webpages so you know their platforms, and educate yourself about the issues. Talk to your family, friends and neighbors about voting. Just make a plan now, mark your calendars, and VOTE in November!