Michigan Could Record Historic Voter Turnout For Presidential Election

DETROIT (WWJ) - The polls are now open in Michigan and officials are expecting voters to turn out in droves.

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said it could potentially be a record-setting day in Michigan for voter turnout. She said more people cast votes in this year's presidential primary election than in any of the state's previous primary elections -- a possible indication of how the day might go.

"Historically we have in the mid 60s (percent voter turnout). In 2008, we had 67.5 and in 2012 we had 64.1," Johnson told WWJ's Beth Fisher. "This year, our absentees are up 9 percent. Whether that will translate to the polls or not, we'll find out."

The highest voter turnout was recorded during the 1960 election at 73 percent. Johnson said there's so much interest surrounding this election, she's been referring to it as the "Super Bowl of Democracy."

"It's not a spectator sport, you need to get out and vote," she said. "People have given their lives so that we have this wonderful opportunity. It's a treasure, and we need to take the time to do it. It is an important part of America."

[President, State House Are Top Races In Michigan]

The polls are open until 8 p.m. Tuesday and as long as you're in line, you'll be able to vote. But Johnson says you should be prepared to wait in line for at least a few minutes.

"The best time to vote is 10 to noon and 2 to 5," she said. "Historically, those are the least amount of wait times."

Before hitting the polls, voters are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/vote to see their personalized sample ballot.

"We have so many different ballot styles, 6,800 of them," said Johnson. "You can put your address in and it will show you what you'll be voting on today."

[Election Day Guide: What Detroit-Area Voters Need To Know Before Hitting The Polls]

WWJ Lansing Bureau Chief Tim Skubick says at this point, the election could go either way.

"The Democrats traditionally have a pretty good ground game and Donald Trump's ground game, vis-a-vis the Republican party, in Michigan has been good and comparable. So, it's all about that turnout," he said. "It's interesting that both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have under performed in certain areas of the state. The Clinton campaign is very concerned about the turnout in Detroit. Likewise, the Trump campaign has been concerned about the turnout in west Michigan. Both of them have leads in those areas, but they aren't as high as they should be."

WWJ Newsradio 950 and CBSDetroit.com will have continuing coverage of Election Day. Check back often for updates.