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Governor approves end to straight-ticket voting

Governor Rick Snyder has signed a law that eliminates the option of voting a straight-party ballot on Election Day.

Michigan was one of 10 states that allows straight-ticket voting with one mark on the ballot. Democrats opposed the bill. They say getting rid of the straight-ticket option will discourage some people from voting, and will lead to longer lines on Election Day.

Governor Snyder also called for making it easier to vote absentee.

Michigan Democratic Party Chair Brandon Dillon called it an empty gesture because Republican leaders in the Legislature remain opposed.

“Yeah, it’s lip service. I asked for a Corvette for Christmas and I didn’t get that, either.”

Dillon says a federal voting rights lawsuit is a possibility.

I’m Rick Pluta at the state Capitol