DETROIT (WXYZ) — Detroit voters will narrow down the race to be the city's next leader in Tuesday's primary election, with polls opening at 7 a.m. While thousands have already cast their ballots, officials expect a relatively low turnout overall.
Watch Whitney Burney's video report:
Work is already underway at polling locations across the city, with voters dropping off absentee ballots ahead of Tuesday's deadline. The city clerk hopes for strong participation despite current projections.
Monday, campaign volunteers spent the day making their final push to get voters to the polls.
"I've been in this neighborhood going door to door, dropping off flyers. We're encouraging people to go get a friend," Randy Henry, who is a campaign volunteer for one of the Detroit mayoral candidates, said.
"Voter turnout tomorrow is so critical. It's going to be wonderful weather. We're having people at the polls. We're going to continue to knock doors make phone calls and engage all day long," Renette Jackson, who is the campaign manager for one of the Detroit mayoral candidates, said.
Detroit residents who have already voted emphasize the importance of participation.
"I'm encouraging everybody to vote. I think it's your responsibility. You have no reason to complain if you don't get out here and vote," Carole Harris, Detroit voter, said.
"I'm very excited. I think there's some new directions that need to be explored. I'd like to see more emphasis on the neighborhoods," Dawn McDuffie, Detroit voter, said.
Tuesday's election will determine the future of City Council and narrow down the finalists for Detroit mayor, who will be the city's first new leader in more than a decade.
"This race is so important to our quality of life as residents in the city of Detroit. Oftentimes our citizens think the presidential race is so important, and it is important. Every election is important but this one impacts your day to day quality of life," Janice Winfrey, Detroit City Clerk, said.
Winfrey reports that voter turnout has been somewhat low so far, with about 2,000 people taking advantage of early voting, which ended Sunday. Officials expect another 50,000 to 55,000 votes via absentee ballot, with overall turnout projected at just 13-18% for in-person voting on Tuesday.
FULL INTERVIEW: Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey talks about upcoming primary election
"There's no reason not to vote. Voting has consequences. Everybody needs to know that," Rev. Wendell Anthony, NAACP Detroit Branch President, said.
The NAACP and other activist groups have been working to increase voter participation through their "Soles to the Polls" campaign.
"This is the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, the legislation that was signed for us to have the right to vote. Right now, we need to make certain that we're exercising that right," Anthony said.
Residents who didn't participate in early voting can still make their voices heard, with same-day voter registration available on Tuesday. Voters can also return their completed absentee ballots to an authorized drop box before 8 p.m. on election day.
The city also warns that 11 polling locations have been changed. While there will be staff at the previous locations directing voters to the correct place, voters can also find more information about where they can cast their ballots and how online.
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