On August 19, the Sixth Circuit directed opponents of Michigan’s straight-ticket device to file a brief by Tuesday, August 23, in the case over whether the device should be on the ballot this year. The case is Michigan State A. Philip Randolph Institute v Johnson, 16-2115.
The *device* would be a box with the party names, logos/symbols and ovals. Vote for ONE – by filling in ONE oval.
And you can “split” your straight ticket by voting for one or more specific candidates of other parties — or just “mix” your ticket by voting in individual races without marking the straight-ticket device. At least that’s what the ballots are supposed to say, and what the poll workers (“election inspectors”) are supposed to be ready to tell you — but I’ve encountered problems with each.
(BTW, this is only for general elections. In primaries, you can only vote in one party’s column — or else you spoil your ballot.)