At Thursday’s elections news conference hosted by Genesee County, Clerk-Register Domonique Clemons closed out the event by reminding voters that absentee ballots are now being mailed and encouraging them to use Michigan.gov/Vote to track when their ballot is sent and received.

He emphasized the importance of signing absentee ballot envelopes, carefully completing the full ballot and returning ballots early enough to be received on time. With a lengthy ballot this November that includes federal, state and local races as well as ballot questions, Clemons encouraged voters to review and complete every page.

Clemons also highlighted the safeguards and transparency built into Michigan’s election process, including paper ballots, bipartisan canvassing boards, post-election audits and public accuracy testing of voting equipment. He addressed several common sources of confusion, including the difference between ballot applications and actual ballots, and encouraged residents with questions or concerns to contact their local clerk rather than rely on information circulating on social media.

“A rumor is not evidence,” Clemons said, stressing that local election officials are available to explain the process and provide voters with accurate information.