Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson at an election law conference in California this weekend said her office has seen a major surge in requests for absentee ballots ahead of its March 10 primary — the first statewide contest in which any voter can cast a ballot by mail.
“The ability to vote from home and vote absentee without a reason is on the rise, and that’s a good thing from a contingency standpoint,” she said….
Hasen, the election expert, said states should consider making either a temporary or permanent allowance for expanded mail-in balloting well ahead of the November general election. It’s better to act sooner rather than later to avoid the risk of confusing voters or making the decision appear politically motivated….
“If there’s one thing that’s more important than a fair and honest election, it’s life and health and safety,” said Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose at the election law conference. “That’s when very difficult decisions have to be made, including whether there needs to be an order to suspend election day. Let’s hope we don’t have to, but we’re ready for it.”