Michigan Voters Face Changes as Candidates Withdraw from 2026 Election
With Michigan’s primary election slated for August 4, 2026, voters are seeing unexpected changes as several candidates have withdrawn from statewide races. This development has led to questions about how voters who have already cast absentee ballots can adjust their votes.
Despite the ballots being finalized and printed, three candidates have since exited their campaigns. This has left many voters wondering about their options if they wish to change their votes. Michigan Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie addressed these concerns in a discussion with Doug Tribou, host of Morning Edition.
Doug Tribou: Voters received their absentee ballots by mail starting in late June. Given that candidates like Republican gubernatorial hopeful Mike Cox withdrew on July 17, voters had a window of over three weeks to potentially cast votes for candidates no longer in contention. What recourse do these voters have?
Aghogho Edevbie: Voters can visit michigan.gov/vote to identify their local clerk. By submitting a written request, they can spoil their absentee ballot, allowing them to receive a new one and vote differently if they choose.
Other notable candidates who have withdrawn but remain on the ballot include Republican gubernatorial candidate Aric Nesbitt and Democrat Mallory McMorrow, who was running for U.S. Senate.
DT: Can voters switch party ballots when they request a new one, such as moving from a Republican to a Democrat ballot?
AE: Our state primaries use a single ballot with both Republican and Democrat options. Voters select one side according to the party they wish to support, ensuring clarity in the voting process.
Three candidates for statewide office ended their campaigns after ballots had already been approved and printed.
DT: If voters spoil their ballots, can they alter their choices on other races or ballot questions?
AE: Absolutely. Voters can change their entire ballot, including decisions on governor, Senate, and other issues. However, they need to ensure they vote in only one primary, either Democrat or Republican.
DT: How do clerks ensure that spoiled ballots are invalidated and prevent double voting?
AE: We use a system called the qualified voter file (QVF). This system logs each ballot issued, whether absentee, early, or on Election Day. When a ballot is spoiled, its number is voided, ensuring it cannot be recounted.
DT: Is it still possible for a withdrawn candidate to win if they receive enough votes?
AE: Yes, if a candidate’s name remains on the ballot and they receive the majority vote, they can still win. Although they might choose not to assume office, the votes count as long as their name is listed.
DT: With early in-person voting starting soon, what should voters know?
AE: Early voting begins July 25. Since its introduction in 2024, voters can check our website for early voting locations, which may differ from their usual Election Day polling places.
Editor’s note: Some quotes in this article have been lightly edited for length and clarity. You can play the full audio of this interview near the top of this page.
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