Michigan kicks off primary voting with absentee ballots

Michigan voters can now begin casting absentee ballots for the state’s Aug. 4 primary, opening a voting window that runs for about six weeks before Election Day.

Voting is underway

Axios reported the absentee-voting period began on June 24, 2026. The primary will help decide nominees in major races, including governor and U.S. Senate.

Detroit is expected to mail about 99,000 absentee ballots for the primary, according to Axios, citing Matt Friedman of Detroit Votes.

What voters need to know

Michigan Department of State guidance says eligible voters who are not registered, or who need to update their address, can do so at their local clerk’s office until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Voters can also request an absentee ballot there.

The state says absentee ballots must be received by a voter’s local clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Michigan also lets voters track the mailing and receipt of absentee ballot applications and ballots online at Michigan.gov/Vote.

The Secretary of State’s office describes absentee voting as part of the state’s broader voting options and says voters can return ballots by mail, drop box, Election Day precinct tabulator, early voting site, or clerk’s office.

Why it matters

The start of absentee voting gives thousands of Michigan voters an early path to participate before the August primary. In Detroit, the large expected mailing volume could be especially important for turnout in the state’s largest city.

Officials and local voting groups are likely to keep focusing on ballot-mailing totals, registration activity and ballot returns as Election Day approaches.