By Micha Colby
2024 marks another major election year for the country. For the third time in a row, Donald Trump will be representing the Republican presidential ticket and this time the Democrats will be represented by Kamala Harris. There will also be many third party candidates running for president on the ballot in Michigan including Jill Stein of the Green Party, Chas Oliver of the Libertarian party, Randall Terry of the US Taxpayers Party and Joseph Kishore and Cornel West running as independents. However, many Grand Rapids Community College students are still wondering, “How do I register to vote?”
There are many ways to register to vote in Michigan. There are also many ways to vote, such as in person and absentee voting options.
According to Mike Sullivan, director of elections in Kent County, “the easiest way to get registered is online at the Michigan Voter Registration Center. Any student in Michigan can register through the Michigan Secretary of State office online.”
“With recent changes in Michigan election law there are more opportunities for people to get registered,” said Sullivan. “Most common opportunity is when people go to get their driver’s license. We are an opt-in state, which means when you go to get your driver’s license you are automatically opted in to be registered to vote in the state of Michigan.”
While many young people across the country are expressing their dissatisfaction with the two major political parties on the national stage, many still maintain that voting this November is important.
“Every time we can increase voter turnout that is a good thing for our democracy and a good thing for our state,” said Sullivan.
When asked about people being jaded due to the repetitive nature of the national elections Sullivan said, “(In) my personal opinion it doesn’t need to be that way. Just as it is important to vote for president, it is just as important to vote for your local city council or township board, because they are making decisions that are going to affect your life and the well being of our state as well.”
Sullivan also encourages prospective voters to get involved in their local elections. Information for local Grand Rapids elections can be found here.
“What happens in Grand Rapids and in Kent County has a far bigger impact on your life than decisions made in Washington,” said Sullivan.
Students unable to vote on election day have the option to vote early or register for an absentee ballot before Nov. 1.
If you are not from the Grand Rapids area and unable to make it home for election day then filing for an absentee ballot is recommended.
If you want to learn more about voting and making your voice heard, click here for more details.
