By Staff
Voting is a right and privilege we enjoy in the United States. The upcoming presidential primary election is nearing on Jan. 15 in Michigan and the date to be registered to vote is this Friday, Dec. 17.
"Voter participation is the foundation of our democracy," said Terri Land, Michigan's Secretary of State.
We urge everyone who is eligible to become part of our country's traditions and not only register, but also vote.
To register, you must be at least 18 years old by Election Day and a U.S. and Michigan resident. You must register in the city or township in which you live.
Registration can be done by mail, or in person. A mail-in form is available at the Department of State web site: www.Michigan.gov/sos. If you do register by mail, then the first time you vote you need to do so in person, or hand deliver the application to your local clerk, or are 60 years or older, disabled or overseas.
Maps to your polling place, information on absentee ballots and how to contact your local clerk, are all on the web site: www.Michigan/gov/vote along with Michigan's voter requirements.
This year a new requirement is to show a Michigan's driver's license or other photo ID, before voting.
Should you not have one in your possession at the voting place, you will still vote, but will need to sign a brief form.
For the presidential primary, Tuesday, Jan. 15, you will need to tell which party's primary you wish to vote in and then will receive a ballot of the one you chose.
Be proud to live in a democracy and exercise your right to vote.