Michigan voters' party picks will be public record - New state rule will cut partisan mischief [View all]

[Bozita]

FEBRUARY 13, 2012 AT 1:00 AM
Michigan voters' party picks will be public record
New state rule will cut partisan mischief in Feb. 28 contest, some say
BY MARISA SCHULTZ THE DETROIT NEWS


When voters go to the polls in Michigan's primary Feb. 28, their party preference will be public for all to see.

Unlike four years ago, when voters expected some privacy, the partisan ballot they choose — Republican or Democrat — this year will be public information after the election. Also available, upon request, will be the voter's name and address, according to the Michigan Secretary of State.

The process for voters will "be much the same as four years ago with one caveat: They'll know going in their ballot preference will be made public," said Fred Woodhams, spokesman for the Secretary of State.

Unlike in other states, Michigan voters don't have to declare a party affiliation when they register. But releasing ballot preferences in this year's presidential primaries is the closest Michiganians come to publicly picking a party, and that makes some uncomfortable.

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