10/15/2026
Common Voting Myths vs. Facts
With elections approaching, there's a lot of misinformation about voting. Here are some common myths that people still believe!
1. MYTH: Your vote doesn't matter.
FACT: Elections can be decided by just a handful of votes, especially local elections. Every legally cast vote contributes to the final total.
2. MYTH: You can't vote if you have a felony conviction.
FACT: Voting rights vary by state. In Michigan, people with felony convictions can vote as long as they are not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison.
3. MYTH: You need your voter registration card to vote.
FACT: Michigan does not require you to bring your voter registration card to the polls.
4. MYTH: If you don't have a photo ID, you can't vote.
FACT: In Michigan, voters without acceptable photo ID can generally sign an affidavit and still vote.
5. MYTH: You can only vote on Election Day.
FACT: Michigan offers early in-person voting and no-excuse absentee voting.
6. MYTH: If you skip an election, your registration is automatically canceled.
FACT: Missing one election does not automatically remove you from the voter rolls.
7. MYTH: Absentee ballots only count if an election is close.
FACT: Valid absentee ballots are counted regardless of how close an election is.
8. MYTH: You have to vote for the same political party in every race.
FACT: In Michigan general elections, you can vote for candidates from different political parties.
9. MYTH: If you make a mistake on your ballot, your entire vote is wasted.
FACT: You can request a replacement ballot if you make a mistake before submitting it. An error in one contest does not necessarily invalidate your other votes.
10. MYTH: You must own a home to register to vote.
FACT: Renters and people without a traditional permanent address can vote if they meet eligibility and registration requirements.
11. MYTH: If you aren't registered yet, it's too late to vote.
FACT: Michigan allows eligible voters to register in person at their city or township clerk's office through 8 p.m. on Election Day, with proof of residency. 
12. MYTH: Someone can find out which candidate you voted for.
FACT: Your voting participation may be public record, but your actual ballot choices are secret.