© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

More Voters Cast Ballots In Primary Than Expected, But Turnout Still Low

More than 82% of all registered voters sat out Michigan’s primary election this week.

As Michigan Public Radio’s Jake Neher reports, Democrats want to make sure voter turnout isn’t dismally low in November.

Some political observers thought there could be a historically low number of voters at the polls in this week’s primary. Although the number wasn’t quite that low – they say it’s still troubling. Low voter turnout in non-presidential elections usually favors Republicans – especially more conservative candidates.

Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lon Johnson says they’re focusing on turning out voters in November.

“It starts with, most importantly, good candidates. And we’ve got good candidates,” he says.  “We’re united to go after… and deliver a good message to those voters.”

Many observers expect low voter turnout in Michigan’s November election as well.

Jake Neher is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He covers the State Legislature and other political events in Lansing.
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!