Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum recently shed light on the often-overlooked process of write-in voting, an option available to voters who wish to support candidates not listed on their ballots. While many voters may think they can simply write in a name, Byrum emphasizes that there are specific requirements that must be met for these votes to be counted.
First and foremost, for a write-in vote to count, the candidate must be a registered write-in candidate. This registration process involves the candidate submitting a brief form to the appropriate filing official before the election deadline, which is typically 4:00 p.m. on the second Friday before the election. If this registration is approved, the candidate’s name will be communicated to local clerks and precinct workers, making it known that the write-in is valid.
Once voters arrive at the polls, they must follow a few essential steps. When casting a write-in vote, voters need to ensure they fill in the bubble next to the write-in area just as they would for any other candidate. This step is crucial; without marking the bubble, the vote may not be counted.
Additionally, clarity in spelling is key. Voters must spell the write-in candidate’s name clearly enough for it to be recognizable by the precinct workers, who include representatives from both major political parties. This ensures that the intent of the voter is accurately reflected in the vote count. After the polls close, votes for write-in candidates are hand-tallied and reported to the county clerk for certification by the county board of canvassers.
For those considering write-in candidates, Byrum offers a practical tip: voters can request a list of registered write-in candidates from their local clerk’s office. This is an important step since precinct workers at polling places cannot provide this information.
Finally, Byrom humorously reminds voters that not all names are eligible. For instance, characters like Mickey Mouse or James Bond are unlikely to have registered as write-in candidates. This reinforces the idea that while write-in voting is a powerful tool for expressing preferences, it comes with specific rules that must be followed to ensure every vote counts.
By educating voters about the write-in process, Byrum aims to empower citizens to make informed choices, enhancing participation and engagement in the democratic process. Understanding these guidelines not only aids in individual voting efforts but also strengthens the overall electoral system.
