Photos: Kimberly Mitchell / Eric Seals ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
DETROIT, Aug. 7, 2024 ~ Michigan voters participated in a pivotal primary election on Tuesday, setting the stage for a highly anticipated U.S. Senate race between Democrat Elissa Slotkin and Republican Mike Rogers.
Approximately 2 million voters turned out for the primary, a figure slightly below recent averages. Low turnout notwithstanding, the results were decisive. Slotkin, currently serving as a U.S. Representative, secured her party’s nomination with a commanding performance over actor and author Hill Harper. On the Republican side, former U.S. Representative Mike Rogers clinched his party’s nomination with a substantial lead over his rivals, former Representative Justin Amash and physician, pastor, and author Dr. Sherry O’Donnell.
PODCAST:
Aug. 7, 2024 ~ Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson speaks with Lloyd and Jamie about Tuesday’s primary election. Hear about the popularity of early voting, the efforts behind keeping election officials safe, and the minor technical hiccups that temporarily impacted some voters. Also, the secretary talks about her investigation into the Elon Musk-backed super PAC that might have misled voters.
(CONTINUED) In addition to the Senate race, several significant congressional primaries were decided. Of note, in the 1st Congressional District, incumbent Republican Jack Bergman will face Democrat Bob Lorinser. In the 3rd District, incumbent Democrat Hillary Scholten will face Republican Paul Hudson. Meanwhile, in the 7th District, Democrat Curtis Hertel Jr. will compete against Republican Tom Barrett.
Notably, around 1.2 million absentee ballots were returned by Tuesday night, representing roughly 60% of the total votes cast. The low in-person turnout was attributed to rainy weather and a lack of highly competitive races.
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