The Chronicle Regional Voter Guide 2026 | Your Vote. Your Voice. Your Community. Primary Election

---

The August 4, 2026 Primary Election will determine which candidates from each political party advance to the November General Election. Depending on where you live, your ballot may include federal, state, county, judicial, school board, and local races, as well as ballot proposals that affect your community.

This guide highlights many of the major contests affecting The Chronicle’s readers throughout Mid-Michigan and serves as a starting point for preparing to vote.

What Is the Primary Election?

Michigan’s Primary Election allows voters to help determine which candidates from each political party will appear on the November General Election ballot. Depending on your community, you’ll also vote on local offices, judges, school boards, and ballot proposals that directly impact your neighborhoods, schools, roads, parks, libraries, and other public services.

Important Election Dates

Primary Election: Tuesday, August 4, 2026

General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Early Voting: July 25 – August 2, 2026

Deadline to Register Online or by Mail: July 20, 2026

Michigan Voter Information Center: Michigan.gov/Vote

Before You Head to the Polls

✔️ Confirm your voter registration.

✔️ Verify your polling location.

✔️ Review your sample ballot before Election Day.

✔️ Bring an acceptable photo ID, or sign an affidavit if you do not have one.

✔️ Polls are open 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

What’s New in Michigan Voting?

Michigan voters continue to have access to expanded voting options, including:

• Early voting before Election Day

• No-reason absentee voting

• Secure absentee ballot drop boxes in many communities

Be sure to check with your local clerk for voting options and deadlines available in your area.

STATEWIDE RACES

Governor

Democratic

• Jocelyn Benson

• Chris Swanson

Republican

• Mike Cox

• John James

• Perry Johnson

• Aric Nesbitt

U.S. Senate

Democratic

• Abdul El-Sayed

• Mallory McMorrow

• Haley Stevens

Republican

• Mike Rogers

Secretary of State

Democratic

• Garlin Gilchrist II

Republican

• Anthony Forlini

Attorney General

See the complete statewide candidate list online through the Michigan Voter Information Center.

GREATER LANSING / INGHAM COUNTY

U.S. Congress – District 7

Democratic

• Bridget Brink

• Matt Maasdam

• William Lawrence

Republican

• Tom Barrett (Incumbent)

Also on Many Area Ballots

• Michigan State Senate

• Michigan House of Representatives

• Ingham County Judges

• Lansing Community College Board

• Local city and township offices

Ballot Proposals to Watch

Depending on where you live, your ballot may also include proposals involving:

• Potter Park Zoo

• Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA)

• Capital Area District Library

• Trails and Parks

• Arts funding

• Local school district proposals

• Additional county and municipal millages

Always review your specific sample ballot, as proposals vary by jurisdiction.

JACKSON COUNTY

Jackson Mayor (Nonpartisan)

• Christy May Davis

• Derek J. Dobies

• Shalanda Hunt

• Dena K. Morgan

• John Wilson

Jackson Treasurer

• David R. Hammontree

• Nanette Muntin

Voters should also watch for local city, township, school board, and ballot proposal races specific to their communities.

Editor’s Note: Candidate lists were compiled using publicly available election information at the time of publication. Because election filings and certifications may change, readers are encouraged to verify the most current ballot information through the Michigan Voter Information Center and their local election officials.

ALSO COVERING

✔️ Eaton County

✔️ Clinton County

✔️ Washtenaw County

✔️ Additional local races and ballot proposals

Election Resources

For the most up-to-date election information, visit:

• Michigan Voter Information Center (Michigan.gov/Vote)

• Your local city or township clerk

• Your county election office

These resources can help you:

• Verify voter registration

• Find your polling place

• View your sample ballot

• Track your absentee ballot

• Learn more about voting options

Know Before You Vote

✔️ Verify your polling location.

✔️ Review your sample ballot in advance.

✔️ Research the candidates and ballot proposals.

✔️ Make a voting plan.

✔️ Encourage a family member or friend to vote.

From the Publisher

At The Chronicle News, we believe informed communities build stronger communities.

Voting is one of the most powerful ways citizens can shape the future of their neighborhoods, schools, local governments, and our state. Whether this is your first election or your fiftieth, we encourage every eligible voter to learn about the candidates, understand the issues, and make a plan to vote.

Our goal is to provide fair, factual, and accessible election information that helps readers participate confidently in the democratic process.

Make Your Voice Heard

Every election matters.

From city councils and school boards to Congress and statewide offices, the decisions made by elected officials affect our daily lives, our families, and our communities.

No matter which candidates or issues you support, your vote is your voice. Make a plan to cast your ballot and encourage others to do the same.

The Chronicle’s Election Commitment

The Chronicle News is committed to providing fair, factual, and nonpartisan election coverage as a public service to our readers.

Candidate listings are provided for informational purposes and should not be interpreted as endorsements. Throughout the election season, readers are encouraged to visit TheChronicleNews.com for election news, candidate questionnaires, interviews, voter resources, and community election coverage.