Preparing for the Upcoming 2026 Elections

As community members, our voices and actions shape the future of our communities. Whether it's local elections or national campaigns, our vote is one tool we can utilize alongside other tactics to influence policies and investments in our community. Before you cast your vote in the upcoming elections, it’s important to ensure you're prepared to vote. Let's explore how to check your registration status and preview what’s on your ballot!

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Why Voting Matters

Elections have implications for our daily lives, from the quality of our schools to the safety of our neighborhoods. By voting, you help choose leaders who may best represent your values and concerns.

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Preparing for the 2026 August Primary Election

During primary elections, voters determine which candidate will represent a political party in the general election. Essentially, primary elections are opportunities for voters to “narrow the field.” Proposals can also appear on primary election ballots. This August Primary, our ballots will include various candidates including those running for Governor, United States Senator, State Senator for 29th District! Grand Rapids residents who live in the First Ward, have the opportunity to decide which two of the three candidates running for First Ward Commissioner will make it to the November ballot and all Grand Rapids residents will have the chance to vote on the Grand Rapids Public Schools Sinking Fund Millage Proposal.

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Step 1: Check Your Registration Status

First things first, let's make sure you're registered to vote. It only takes a minute!

Click here to check your registration status.

Follow the link and enter your information. You'll know immediately if you're registered for the next election.

Step 2: Register to Vote

If you still need to register, don't worry! Let’s review the few ways to do it:

Option 1: Online Registration (If you have a driver's license or state ID): You can register online quickly and easily. Just follow this link: Register to vote online

Option 2: Mail-In Registration (If you don't have a driver's license or state ID): No driver's license? No problem. You can still register by mail. Print out the registration form from the link below, fill it out, and mail it to your local clerk's office. 

Print the mail-in form from this site (You can print it in a variety of languages, including English, Spanish, and more).

Option 3: In-Person Registration: You can also register at your local Secretary of State or Clerk’s Office. This is a great option if you need assistance or have questions about the registration process. Use the same application as the mail-in registration.

Option 4: Voter Registration Drives: Look out for voter registration drives in the community. These events make registering easy and often provide helpful information about upcoming elections.

Step 3: Preview Your Ballot

Not sure what positions or proposals will appear on your ballot for the August Primary election? You can preview your ballot here. Previewing your ballot can be a great starting point for researching candidates and identifying who best aligns with your values and priorities. We invite you to join us for our “What’s on the Ballot?” event on Thursday, July 23rd from 6-8pm at Cook Library Center. We’ll eat dinner together and talk through how the positions and proposals on the ballot are connected to our daily lives. Click here to RSVP.

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Important Dates for the Election

• The next election is the August Primary Election on August 4, 2026
• The last day to register to vote by mail or online is July 20, 2026, for the August Election
• New voter registrations are required in person for the August election, July 21-August 4, 2026
• Constitutionally-mandated early voting period: July 25-August 2, 2026

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We Got This!

Voting is one of many tools to effect change and support the issues that matter most to you. Don't let your voice go unheard. Check your registration status today, and if needed, register to vote. Let's get prepared and make our voices heard for upcoming elections!

Call to Action

1. Take action now! Check your registration status and register to vote today. 
2. Encourage your friends, family, and community to check their registration status and register to vote. 
3. Share this post to help others in your community register and prepare to vote. 

Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant democracy!

#EverydayPeopleEverydayPower

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