A post-election analysis of Calhoun County ballots cast in the 2016 presidential election reveals 47.2% of voters employed the straight party option. Choosing the straight party ticket option on the Michigan ballot gives voters the option of choosing a party's entire slate with one action.

In January 2016, Governor Rick Snyder signed into law a measure eliminating the straight party option on Michigan ballots. Following that, a back-and-forth on the issue resulted in a Supreme Court decision allowing the option to continue.

Proponents of the option say removing it creates a burden for some voters, particularly African American voters.

The analysis from Calhoun County Clerk Anne Norlander's office showed the presidential results in favor of Democrat Hillary Clinton in urban precincts like the cities of Albion, Battle Creek and Springfield, with the balance of the county going for Republican Donald Trump.

Norlander and Chief Deputy Clerk of Elections Teri Loew also discussed the partial presidential recount ordered by Green Party candidate Jill Stein and what was learned from that experience. They also discussed the presumed gubernatorial candidates in 2018.

Hear their comments by clicking the player below.

Hear The Richard Piet Show weekday mornings from 5:30-9 on WBCK.

More From WBCKFM