More Than 145K MI Voters Cast Ballots On First Day Of Early Voting

MICHIGAN — More than 145,000 Michiganders voted on Saturday, which was the first statewide day of in-person voting, according to the Michigan Secretary of State.

In addition, at least 12 early voting sites had more than 1,000 voters cast ballots Saturday, according to the office.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said the number far exceeded the expectations of state and local election officials.

"I’m thrilled to see so many enthusiastic Michigan citizens turning out all across the state in record numbers to make their voices heard," Benson said. "We’re starting a new tradition of early voting here in Michigan, so we don’t just have Election Day, we have Election Days, and options that let you decide what’s most convenient for you."

The early-voting period in Michigan began Saturday and runs through Nov. 3. Every Michigan community must allow for at least nine days of voting, but some can allow more. Detroit, Canton Township and East Lansing began early voting before Oct. 26.

Here is how to find early voting locations and times near you.

Along with absentee ballots, nearly 1.8 million Michiganders have voted so far in this election cycle, according to the office.