AUGUST 4, 2004

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today announced that 1.38 million voters cast ballots in Tuesday’s primary election, based on unofficial returns.

"I applaud all voters who participated in the primary," said Land, Michigan’s chief election officer. "They have made their voices heard. That’s the essence of democracy. We’ll be a stronger Michigan because of their involvement.

"The voter turnout rate is not unusual for a primary. Turnout was higher in the areas of the state where there were highly competitive races, critical ballot issues or millages before the voters."

Tuesday’s turnout represents 20 percent of Michigan’s 6.9 million registered voters. While nearly 25 percent voted in the 2002 primary, areas of the state with competitive races clearly saw an increase in the number of voters participating in this year’s primary election. For example, Otsego County in the 105th state House district turned out two-thirds more voters on Tuesday than in 2002. Jackson, Branch, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties in the 7th Congressional district also saw higher turnout in this year’s primary over the 2002 primary.

This also was the first time that voters in several precincts began using the optical scan system. Land selected optical scan as the statewide alternative to older voting technology such as punch cards and lever machines. All Michigan precincts will use optical scan by the 2006 general election.

Feedback received from these precincts on Tuesday was favorable.

Land commended local election officials for their commitment and professionalism, which contributed to the overall trouble-free nature of the primary.

"Michigan is fortunate to have a dedicated corps of local public servants who keep our elections running smoothly," Land said. "The Department of State will continue working with its local partners to ensure that voters remain engaged for this fall’s election."

Unofficial primary election results are available at www.Michigan.gov/sos.

Land also reminded residents to visit the online Michigan Voter Information Center, a single, comprehensive source designed for voter convenience at www.michigan.gov/vote. The site contains information on polling locations, voting systems, registration and candidates.