POLITICS

Midwest primaries drive increase in absentee, early voting

PUBLISHED Jun 24, 2026, 1:35 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 4

Center 75%

Right 25%

Sources: 4

Lansing election officials prepared 22,000 absentee ballots weeks before the August primary as volunteers and clerks processed mail ballots and drop-box logistics. This week Michigan jurisdictions, including Detroit, began mailing absentee ballots — Detroit expects about 99,000 — while local offices activated early-voting options expanded by 2018 and 2022 reforms. Monona installed a new ballot drop box ahead of the November election, and Minnesota opened early voting starting Friday, June 26; both moves aim to accommodate higher turnout in competitive gubernatorial and U.S. Senate primaries. Officials including Lansing City Clerk Chris Swope and Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum said they expect increased participation and are staffing accordingly.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2018 — Michigan voters approve no-reason absentee voting statewide.
2022 — Election reforms expand early voting opportunities and procedures.
Mid June 2026 — Jurisdictions begin preparations and mailings of absentee ballots.
June 26, 2026 — Minnesota opens early voting for its primary.
Weeks before August 2026 — Lansing prepares 22,000 absentee ballots; Monona installs drop box ahead of November.

News Intelligence

The surge in absentee and early voting in the Midwest may affect your voting experience. If you're in Michigan or Minnesota, you now have more options and time to cast your vote. Check your local office for early voting or mail-in ballot details.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 3

Who Benefited

Voters seeking flexible voting options benefited from expanded absentee and early voting access, while civic groups and larger election offices reported increased engagement and use of mail-in and drop-box services.

Who Impacted

Smaller local election offices and volunteers experienced heavier workloads and logistical pressures preparing, receiving, and processing high volumes of absentee ballots ahead of competitive 2026 primaries.

Media Bias