Marquette Election Board tests voting machines

Accuracy test aims to ensure transparency and voter confidence in election process

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic painting of a lone voting machine sitting in an empty room, the machine's surfaces reflecting warm, golden light from a window and casting deep shadows across the floor, creating a contemplative, almost melancholic mood.The public accuracy test of Marquette's voting equipment aims to assure residents that their votes will be counted correctly, even as local election turnout remains low.Marquette Today

The Marquette City Election Board in Michigan conducted an accuracy test of its voting equipment, including tabulators and voter assist terminals, as required by state law. The test is meant to provide greater transparency to the election process and address concerns about election integrity. Marquette County Clerk Linda Talsma encouraged residents to attend the public test to see the process in action.

Why it matters

With election integrity a major topic of discussion in recent years, these public accuracy tests are an important way for election officials to demonstrate the reliability and security of voting equipment to the community. Voter confidence in the electoral process is critical for a healthy democracy.

The details

The Marquette City Election Board appointed election inspectors, early-voting inspectors, and absent-voter counting board inspectors. They then conducted the required public accuracy test of all electronic voting systems, including tabulators and voter assist terminals. The test involves intentionally introducing potential issues or problems to ensure the equipment properly identifies and accounts for them.

  • The accuracy test was conducted on April 3, 2026.

The players

Linda Talsma

Marquette County Clerk who oversaw the accuracy test and encouraged public participation to build voter confidence.

Marquette City Election Board

The local election board responsible for administering elections in Marquette, Michigan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is your opportunity to go view it and actually see it working. See all of the pieces put together.”

— Linda Talsma, Marquette County Clerk

“Millages matter on your tax bills. You need to go and see, and you need to go and read, and you need to go and make sure that this is what you want, and if it is, that's fantastic, but at least go out there and get your voice heard.”

— Linda Talsma, Marquette County Clerk

What’s next

The May 5th ballot in Marquette County will include bond proposals for the city of Negaunee's ice arena and for infrastructure and safety improvements in the Marquette Area Public Schools. Talsma encouraged all residents to participate in these important local elections.

The takeaway

The public accuracy test of Marquette's voting equipment is an important step in maintaining transparency and building voter confidence in the electoral process. As local elections often have low turnout, it is critical for citizens to engage and ensure their voices are heard on issues that directly impact their communities.