County Clerk: Tips for Voters to Avoid Election Day Lines

With the November 8 Presidential Election one week away and voter turnout expected to be high, the Ottawa County Clerk’s Office is reminding voters of some tips to help Election Day go smoothly.

• Avoid Peak Times: Lines are generally shorter during the 9am to 11am or 1pm to 4pm hours. If possible, you may want to vote during those times.
• Be Informed: There are a significant number of candidates and races on the ballot. You can view your sample ballot and be prepared ahead of time by visiting https://vote.michigan.gov/mvic/
• Be Prepared: Make sure to check your polling location address ahead of time by visiting https://vote.michigan.gov/mvic/.
• Photo ID: Election workers will ask you to show a photo ID. If you have your photo ID with you, having it out and ready will help the process move more quickly on Election Day. Voters without an ID in their possession may still be issued a ballot. These voters must sign an affidavit stating that they do not have an ID.
• Campaigning: Michigan election law prohibits voters or anyone else in the precinct from displaying any campaign material, which includes the wearing of any clothing with candidate names, or political party logos. Please refrain from wearing such clothing in the precinct. Any campaign activity must occur at least 100 feet from any entrance to the polling place.
• There Is Still Time to Vote Absentee: Absentee ballots are available at your local city or township clerk’s office. Ballots can be obtained until Saturday, November 5. On Monday, November 7, you can vote in person at your local clerk’s office until 4pm. Michigan law allows you to vote absentee if:
• You are 60 years of age or older
• You expect to be absent from the community in which you are registered on Election Day
• You are physically unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another
• You cannot attend the polls because of the tenets of your religion
• You have been appointed an election precinct inspector in a precinct other than the one where you reside
• You cannot attend the polls because you are confined to jail awaiting arraignment or trial

If you have any questions about the voting process, please visit our website at www.miottawa.org/elections, or contact our office at 616-994-4531.