LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan’s statewide early voting period begins Saturday, Oct. 24, and federal election monitors are expected at polling places in seven Michigan cities on Election Day.

Which cities?

According to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division notified Detroit, Warren, Hamtramck, Flint, Grand Rapids, East Lansing and Lansing that monitors will be present.

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DOJ monitors have come to Michigan for the past several federal elections, including 2024.

“The law provides specific parameters that allow monitors, observers and challengers to witness elections at local polling places,” Nessel said in a statement. “It’s important for residents to know that DOJ monitors are a standard part of our election process, and we anticipate they will comport with state and federal law just as they did in this year’s August Primary.”

Benson’s “firewall”

Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, who is running for governor, remains Michigan’s chief election officer and final decision-maker on election policy. Her announced “firewall” policy delegates certain responsibilities affecting the governor’s race to the director of elections while retaining her broader election oversight role.

Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie said clerks are prepared for the monitors.

“State and local election officials have been in regular contact with DOJ about their plans for this election. As always, we will follow the law, and we expect all monitors, observers, and challengers to do the same. Voters can cast their ballots with confidence and know that our Department remains fully prepared to protect and defend their right to vote.”

Visit the Michigan Voter Information Center for more information. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.