Election Protection Coalition and Local Election Officials Share How Michigan’s Election System was a Success

The nonpartisan Michigan Election Protection Program (EPP) today, along with Grand Rapids City Clerk Joel Hondorp and Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum, shared how Michigan’s election system ran smoothly and securely to deliver accurate results. Starting with the millions of people who cast ballots, they also thanked the thousands of Michiganders across the state who made this election success possible by being poll workers, challengers, and volunteers. The EPP – a coalition of more than 100 pro-voter organizations from across the state – says it is now working to ensure that County Board of Canvassers throughout Michigan certify the election.

“I am so proud of the work we have collectively done to protect the rights of all eligible Michigan voters,” said Jessica Ayoub, ACLU of Michigan Deputy Political Director and EPP co-leader. “Our work doesn’t stop here, though. The ballots have been cast, but the critical job of counting and certifying every vote is ongoing. We will ensure that the county boards certify the election as the Michigan constitution requires them to do.”

“I want to thank all of our partners and their hundreds of volunteers as well as the local election workers and people from communities across the state who work hard to ensure that every eligible voter could cast their ballot, and that our elections are secure and accurate,” said Lynna Kaucheck, Michigan Voices Director of Communications and Coalitions and EPP co-leader. “Our work does not exist in the confines of a single election cycle. We do election protection work year-round, and we will continue as we prepare for 2028.”

“We had the help of my staff, our community, and election partners who helped our election run as intended and accurately,” said Joel Hondorp, Grand Rapids City Clerk. “Of the 539 poll workers in Grand Rapids who helped ensure our election ran smoothly, 76 were brand new election inspectors inspired to serve. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the Grand Rapids community who contributed to a seamless election.”

“A thriving democracy requires that we ensure every eligible voter can cast their ballot and every vote is accurately counted,” said Barb Byrum, Ingham County Clerk. “Together, our team and our community worked hard to ensure this was carried out to the letter of the law and that the election ran smoothly.”

See recording of the press conference here.

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