Michigan allows voters to “spoil” an absentee ballot that’s already been submitted, although there are deadlines to do so. For example, if you voted for someone who has withdrawn from the primary, such as Mallory McMorrow, you may want to resubmit a new ballot.
Voters can spoil already submitted absentee ballots by submitting a written request to their local clerk’s office. The request has to be signed and state whether the voter wants a new ballot mailed to him or her or if he or she will pick it up from the clerk’s office in person. A request to spoil an absentee ballot that has already been returned must be submitted by 5 p.m. on the second Friday before Election Day. For the statewide primary election, that’s Friday, July 24.
To find your local clerk’s information, you can visit the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote.
Voters who cast their ballot at an early voting site or their polling location cannot spoil their ballot. For the statewide primary, the mandatory early voting period runs from Saturday, July 25, until Sunday, Aug. 2.
Any votes for a candidate who suspended their campaign will still be counted.
What happens after I spoil a ballot?
Once a ballot is spoiled, your local clerk can either provide a new absentee ballot (that can be filled out and returned at the clerk’s office during the same visit) or mail one to you.
What if I change my mind on voting absentee?
If you have received an absentee ballot but have not yet submitted it, the ballot can be spoiled at your local clerk’s office up until 4 p.m. on the Monday before Election Day. For the primary, that’s Monday, Aug. 3.
Your guide to absentee voting in Michigan
Here is how to request an absentee ballot, return it and more.
