Before statewide early voting begins on Saturday, July 25, election officials across Michigan conducted mandatory public tests of the equipment that will be used for the August 4 Primary Election.
These logic and accuracy tests are one of the safeguards used before every election to confirm that voting equipment is programmed correctly, working properly, and counting ballots as expected.
How election equipment is tested
Officials then compare the totals produced by the machines with the expected results. This allows clerks to confirm that each tabulator is reading and counting the test ballots correctly before it is used by voters.
The testing is open to the public. After it is completed, the test ballots and other testing materials are securely stored and kept separate from the ballots and materials used during early voting and on Election Day.
Michigan uses paper ballots
Michigan law requires voters to use paper ballots. After voters mark their ballots, the ballots are counted by certified electronic tabulators.
The paper ballots create a physical record that can be reviewed during audits or recounts. Each county clerk selects and maintains certified election equipment from vendors approved for use in Michigan.
Public testing, paper ballots, equipment certification, and post-election audits are among the checks used to help make sure Michigan election results are accurate.
Early voting begins July 25
Early voting allows voters to cast a ballot in person before Election Day in an experience similar to voting at a polling place. Voters receive a ballot, mark it, and insert it directly into a tabulator at their assigned early voting site.
Your early voting site may be different from your Election Day polling place.
Visit mi.gov/vote to find your assigned early voting site and hours, check your voter registration, view your sample ballot, find your local clerk, or review other voting information.
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