Reproductive rights still drive Michigan voter turnout, advocates say
Early voting data indicates a surge in voter turnout among supporters of reproductive rights, with many opting for absentee or early voting options.
Abortion-rights protesters take part at a rally following the United States Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, federally protected right to abortion, outside the state capitol in Lansing, Mich., Friday, June 24, 2022. The Supreme Court has ended constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place nearly 50 years, a decision by its conservative majority to overturn the court's landmark abortion cases.
Reproductive rights remain a key issue for Michigan voters in this year’s midterm election, according to Planned Parenthood officials.
Despite winning abortion access under Proposal 3 in 2022, advocates warn that the fight is far from over as voters prepare to head to the polls.
“We’re seeing a lot of excitement around this election,” said Erica Shekell, communications director for Planned Parenthood of Michigan. “Reproductive freedom is one of the most motivating factors for people, not only to vote but to vote early as well.”
Early voting data indicates a surge in voter turnout among supporters of reproductive rights, with many opting for absentee or early voting options.
“Abortion may not be explicitly on the ballot this year, but people know that, between the lines, it still very much is.”
— Erica Shekell, communications director, Planned Parenthood of Michigan
While Proposal 3 enshrined abortion access in Michigan’s constitution, Shekell noted that the stakes remain high.
“Abortion may not be explicitly on the ballot this year, but people know that, between the lines, it still very much is,” Shekell said.
Concerns persist about the possibility of anti-abortion justices gaining influence in the Michigan Supreme Court, which could lead to legal challenges against Proposal 3 or the recently proposed Reproductive Health Act. Shekell emphasized the importance of continued voter engagement, noting that the incremental rollback of Roe v. Wade serves as a cautionary tale.
Early in-person voting began statewide in Michigan on Oct. 26, and the last day to vote early and in-person was Sunday, Nov. 3. Visit wdet.org/voterguide to get more information about the candidates running for president, Congress, state House of Representatives, university boards and more in Michigan. You can also find helpful links to check your voter registration status, look up your polling place, view a preview of your ballot and more.
For real-time updates on winners and votes tallied in the national, state and local races in Michigan, visit wdet.org/electionresults.
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