How did Michigan’s new election laws work in 2020? 

Let’s ask the Director of Elections.

In November 2018, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 3, the “Voting Policies in State Constitution Initiative,” which made sweeping changes in Michigan’s election laws. These changes included instituting same-day voter registration, allowing no-excuse absentee voting, providing the option to vote a straight party ticket, automatic voter registration, and more. 

The 2020 presidential election was the first election in which these new laws were in effect. How well did they work for Michigan voters? How well did state and local authorities implement these new laws? What improvements in implementation – or obstacles -- can we expect in 2022, and how can community members facilitate success?

Jonathan Brater, JD

Jonathan Brater, JD, is Director of Elections for the State of Michigan, where he oversees implementation of Proposition 3 and all other aspects of Michigan election law. Before joining the Secretary of State’s office, Mr. Brater served as counsel for the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program, where his work focused on voting rights and elections. In this capacity, Mr. Brater worked on litigation to block enforcement of restrictive voting laws and policies in state and federal court. An expert on voter registration law and policy, Mr. Brater has drafted legislation and published analysis on automatic voter registration, and has testified before state and national bodies, including the Presidential Commission on Election Administration.