KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Tuesday, August 2 is Primary Election Day in Michigan, and voters are being asked to choose what state and county candidates they would like to see on the ballot for the final vote this fall.
Some Republicans have been making an issue of the election itself, repeating the claims by Donald Trump that it’s not a fair process. Kalamazoo area officials have been trying to assure the public that local clerks run fair elections.
“We have the best of the best in the business working here for the city of Kalamazoo, ensuring a fair and thoughtful process to make sure every single person’s vote counts and matters in this community,” said Kalamazoo City Commissioner Chris Preadel.
Kalamazoo County Clerk Meredith Place says it’s not just one person, but the job is done by her staff, city and township clerks and their staff, The Elections Commission and many others.
“We have a board of canvassers. We have additional staff that goes into the running of the elections. It is a team effort,” said Place.
Election officials admit that it’s been an interesting primary with four republican gubernatorial contenders kicked off the ballot for fraudulent signatures on their petitions.
Meanwhile, Democrats have been accused of promoting Trump backed candidates, urging democrats to crossover and vote for them because they will be easier to beat this fall.
Joseph Alfonso, the only democrat who filed in the 4th Congressional Race came up short on signatures, so the party is now urging its supporters to write him in.
The new 4th district includes Allegan, Van Buren, most of Kalamazoo and parts of Berrien, Calhoun and Ottawa Counties.
