—
Election officials across the state have begun testing voting machines to ensure they are working properly ahead of the Nov. 3 General Election.
As required by Michigan law, pre-election testing of voting machines is open to the public, allowing voters an opportunity to observe the process, speak directly with clerks, and see what steps are taken to make certain that every machine is programmed properly and that every vote is recorded accurately.
Each county clerk selects, purchases, and maintains their own certified election equipment from a qualifying vendor. As part of the pre-election process, county, city and township election commissions must run a set of test ballots through each machine. These “logic and accuracy tests” ensure the machines are operating as expected before Election Day.
Once the tests are completed, the test ballots are “securely stored” and kept separate from early voting and Election Day materials, state officials said.
Read more election coverage from WDIV:
“Logic and accuracy testing is one of the many ways that Michigan law invites voters to become involved in the election process,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, in a statement on Wednesday. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to observe both the security of our election equipment and the expertise of our election officials firsthand.”
Public testing of election equipment must take place at least five days before the early voting period begins. In Michigan, early voting for the General Election begins on Saturday, Oct. 24, and runs for nine days in a row — though some communities may offer additional days for early voting.
Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 3. If you haven’t voted yet and are still unsure about your registration status, you can check to see if you’re registered here.
Copyright 2026 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit – All rights reserved.
