iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 17h

Economist @justinwolfers.bsky.social analyzes this week’s new jobs data. Was the strong report a blip? “The most important thing is not to overreact to any one number,” Wolfers told @marketplace.org. Read more: myumi.ch/Axbmj

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

A look back at Democracy Week! Thank you to everyone who joined us to dig into the history of democracy, learn how elections work, and celebrate 250 years of our nation. Subscribe to The Center for Democracy and Civic Empowerment’s newsletter: myumi.ch/QMnzy

Speakers sitting in conversation at the Democracy in Context event.

People sitting in conversation sharing the spirit of America.

Former governors sitting at the Election Security event.

Governors Cox and Lujan Grisham sitting on a stage in conversation.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Students in our Online Master of Public Affairs program recently came together at the Kohn Social Policy Conference to learn, exchange ideas, & connect with fellow students, faculty, & policy leaders. Looking to join the next cohort? Apply by Nov. 1: myumi.ch/RQ9qz

Online MPA students taking a selfie at the Kohn Social Policy Conference.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

We are pleased to announce that we are hosting a debate between the Democratic and Republican candidates for Michigan Secretary of State on October 8. Seating is limited. Learn more and register your interest for a chance to attend: myumi.ch/4x6jn

Graphic featuring Michigan Secretary of State candidates Anthony Forlini and Garlin Gilchrist III. Text reads: "Michigan Secretary of State debate. Thursday, October 8, 2026. 6:30-7:30 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of beloved sociologist and demographer Reynolds (Ren) Farley. Farley was an expert on Detroit's history. His legacy lives on in those he mentored & taught. He will be deeply missed. More info: //myumi.ch/G7974

Ren Farley sitting in the Detroit Tigers’ stadium. Photo by Robin Buckson.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Research to watch🔍: Does MI’s free school meals program affect student performance and academic outcomes? That’s what @kmichelmore.bsky.social, @natashap.bsky.social, and the @edpolicyford.bsky.social research team will study this year. Read more about the evaluation: myumi.ch/qwRk8

Headshots of Katherine Michelmore and Nathasha Pilkauskas.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

Poverty Solutions’ Kristin Seefeldt and Amanda Nothaft share insights from census data showing a decline in poverty. They caution that the data doesn’t reflect benefit cuts that began taking effect in 2026. Read their observations: myumi.ch/qwRy1

Graphic with text that reads: "It's notable that the median income for the top earners is increasing, while income for the lowest earners is stagnant. - Kristin Seefeldt, Poverty Solutions Director."

Graphic with text that reads: "The poverty numbers look pretty good–especially child poverty—but these numbers do not reflect cuts in benefits that started to take effect at the start of 2026. - Amanda Nothaft, Poverty Solutions Director of Data and Analysis."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

New research co-authored by economist @kmichelmore.bsky.social found that @umich.edu HAIL Scholarship program increased on-time bachelor's degree attainment and projected earnings for low-income students. Read more: myumi.ch/RQ9Zw @e@edpolicyford.bsky.social

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 19/09/2026

@stpp-um.bsky.social director @shobitap.org has a new Expert Voices column in @science.org! Parthasarathy argues that the Trump administration’s science policy strategy will harm science and further erode its public accountability. Read the column: myumi.ch/J4E7E

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

That’s a wrap! Thank you to the policymakers, practitioners, scholars, and students who joined us for thought-provoking conversations at the Kohn Social Policy Conference. #KohnCollaborative

The health panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The education panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The childhood poverty panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

The housing panel discussion at the University of Michigan's Kohn Social Policy Conference.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

“This is our chance to develop an allergy to silos. Look around and build relationships with people who don’t look like you, build bridges, and do something.” - Nicole Sherard-Freeman at the Kohn Social Policy Conference, in conversation with Luke Shaefer. #KohnCollaborative

Nicole Sherard-Freeman sitting and conversating with Luke Shaefer.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

The Kohn Social Policy Conference is underway! We can’t wait to spend the rest of the day with scholars, policymakers, practitioners, community leaders, and students as we explore what a city can do to promote human thriving. 🏙️ #KohnCollaborative

A conference room with attendees seated at round tables facing a stage. On stage, a panel of speakers sits, talking.

A group of people stands in line and interacts at an event registration desk.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Online Master of Public Affairs applications are open until November 1! This flexible, accessible, and hands-on degree is designed for busy, working professionals who want to transform their leadership and drive change. Apply here: myumi.ch/RQ9qz

Woman sitting at a table, working on a computer. The computer features Ford School stickers that read: “Dedicated to the public good. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Tomorrow, September 17, join us for We Hold These Truths… with Towsley Policymaker in Residence Holly Bass! Learn more: myumi.ch/WDprn

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Tomorrow: Michigan elections: Local control, national scrutiny, and public trust. A Democracy Week session on how elections work and how to navigate election-season noise. Register to attend: myumi.ch/9J4nW

Poster for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event. It features a voting station with the word "Vote" and a digital padlock image. The event is titled "Michigan elections: Local control, national scrutiny, and public trust," scheduled for Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 11:45 am to 12:50 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Looking to learn more about the impact of #DataCenters? Don’t miss the co-author of @stpp-um.bsky.social's “What Happens When Data Centers Come to Town”, @benzevgreen.bsky.social, as he offers his expertise. Watch the livestream today at 6 pm: myumi.ch/Pb9nQ

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Tomorrow: Democracy in Global-Historical Perspective 🌐 A Democracy Week session on democratic governance across history and around the world. Register to attend: myumi.ch/RQV5y

Poster for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event titled "Democracy in global-historical perspective." Features images of architectural columns, a ballot box, and an open book. Event date: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:50 pm EDT.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Join us tomorrow for Decolonizing Imagination: Narratives, Memory & Political Possibility in the U.S. Territories. 🌎 Speakers from U.S. territories will discuss the tools they draw on to shift political narratives in their communities. Register: myumi.ch/DW6Z7

A promotional image for a University of Michigan Democracy Week event titled "Decolonizing Imagination: Narratives, Memory, and Political Possibility in the U.S. Territories." The background features a collage with tropical flowers, a person paddling a boat, and a historic fortress. Event details are included: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 pm.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

Democracy Week starts tomorrow! We’re kicking off with How to Disagree Better, featuring Governors Spencer Cox and Lujan Grisham. Register to attend: myumi.ch/8J2QM

Promotional poster for "Democracy Week" at the University of Michigan. It features "Governors Forum: How to Disagree Better?" with headshots of two governors: Spencer Cox from Utah and Michelle Lujan Grisham from New Mexico.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 13/09/2026

Don’t miss How to Disagree Better: A forum with Governors Spencer Cox and Lujan Grisham! On Monday, September 14, the governors will discuss reviving America's democracy through healthy conflict and constructive dialogue. Register to attend: myumi.ch/8J2QM

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Today marks the 25th anniversary of a solemn day in our history. The #FordSchoolRosenthal Lecture honors U-M graduate & 9/11 victim Josh Rosenthal. Peter Bergen will discuss the attacks' impact on US national security. Register: myumi.ch/pgRWd

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Mark your calendars! Democracy Week is September 14-19. 📅 Over 5 days, conversations, workshops, and civic action opportunities will be happening across campus. Learn more about Democracy Week events: myumi.ch/d8QVR

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Health care, education, economic security, housing. These systems shape everyday life, & they're deeply interconnected. Join us on September 18 for the Kohn Social Policy Conference, which asks: What can a city do to promote human thriving? More info: myumi.ch/Pbrbk

Graphic with a city street with tall, modern buildings under a partly cloudy sky. The text reads: "Kohn Social Policy Conference. Examine how local-level policy solutions can strengthen these systems and help residents, families, & communities thrive."

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Interested in turning analysis into action? We offer residential and online programs designed to equip you with the tools for real-world impact. Our admissions team is traveling to NYC, DC, IL, across MI, and online this fall! See the schedule: myumi.ch/X8XjP #FutureFordies

speaking at a microphone. Text reads: “Master of Public Policy. Shape policy with evidence and purpose. Turn analysis into action. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

Graphic featuring a person working on a computer. Text reads: “Online Master of Public Affairs. Shape policy. Drive Change. Build expertise and confidence while continuing your career. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

Graphic featuring a person holding a microphone, smiling. Text reads: “Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy. Make your Michigan years count. Build analytical skills for a career with public impact. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.”

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

Happy Labor Day! On this day, our namesake, President Gerald R. Ford, celebrated his first Labor Day in office by signing the Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974.

Gerald R. Ford addressing a group of people on the White House lawn.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

Congratulations to U-M PhD candidates Margarita Maria Rodriguez Morales (Public Policy and Sociology) and Fadilat Olasupo (Sociology) on being awarded two of the three graduate research fellowships awarded by the Social Science Research Council! 🏆 Read: myumi.ch/qwgm3

Headshots of Fadilat Olasupo and Margarita Maria Rodriguez Morales.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

Multigenerational housing is on the rise. What is driving this increase? @natashap.bsky.social told @sfstandard.com, “The increase is likely driven by a lack of affordable housing, childcare, and eldercare, and the increase in single parents." Read: myumi.ch/e7722

Multigenerational family baking together in the kitchen.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

We are delighted to share that Hardy Vieux (MPP/JD '97) has won the 2026 Neil Staebler Distinguished Service Award, the school's highest alumni honor for dedication to excellence in public service! Read more about Vieux: myumi.ch/d884N

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Nicole Sherard-Freeman will join Luke Shaefer for a keynote conversation at the Kohn Social Policy Conference! They'll explore how leaders can work to strengthen the systems that shape opportunity, stability, & well-being. Join the interest list: myumi.ch/Pbrbk

Headshots of Nicole Sherard-Freeman and Luke Shaefer.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Science and technology scholar @shobitap.org says data centers are a proxy for broader concerns about artificial intelligence and inequality and that the issue may drive some voters to the polls. Read more: myumi.ch/2jjJE @stpp-um.bsky.social

Large AI processing server room, data center storage and network processing room.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 30/08/2026

Before the new state law, 95% of MI school districts had cellphone bans. Brian Jacob told @detroitnews.com that many policies are weak & rely on teachers’ enforcement. State law could strengthen bans, but teachers may still end up enforcing them. Read more: myumi.ch/qwwk3

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

“I could teach an entire class on the U.S. Senate election in Michigan,” said Professor Rusty Hills in a @freep.com op-ed. Although he may not be focusing solely on MI’s Senate election this fall, he will be teaching PubPol 683, a masterclass in political campaigning. More: myumi.ch/111md

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

Congrats to Alice Kinney (MPP ‘27) on being awarded the 2026 Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship from the Michigan Townships Association! 🏆 Kinney was chosen for her commitment to Michigan communities. She is building toward a career in local government leadership. myumi.ch/X8y9n

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

The Detroit Metro Area Communities Study will expand to provide residents, community organizations, funders, and policymakers with reliable, representative information from community voices. myumi.ch/5ww4y

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Using data on food insufficiency from a national sample of U.S. households, U-M will release issue briefs that track the rate of food hardship overall & among key subgroups, while making the microdata available at no cost. myumi.ch/5ww4y

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Through tracking the state of MI’s clean energy & mobility transition, the Michigan Automotive, Grid, & Energy Transition Initiative aims to transform complex data into practical insights for policymakers, industry, communities & researchers statewide. myumi.ch/5ww4y

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

The Center for Democracy & Civic Empowerment, housed at the Ford School, will build an evidence-based understanding of what it takes to establish and sustain democracy through interdisciplinary projects and student and public engagement. myumi.ch/5ww4y

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

The Great Lakes Maritime Initiative will position @umich.edu as a national leader in revitalizing American shipbuilding and maritime industry, combining a research institute, workforce training, and a Detroit lab to deliver real-world impact. myumi.ch/5ww4y #LookToMichigan

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Economist @deanyang.bsky.social recently spoke at the 8th International Conference on Applied Development Economics at the @lahoreschool.bsky.social Read about his presentation: myumi.ch/VDVNq

Dean Yang presenting at the International Conference on Applied Development Economics.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

“Talk data to me”. This was the motto of this year’s ASPIRE cohort. During their final presentations, they made the case for why schools need to view attendance, discipline, and other factors as signals of something deeper in students' lives. Read: myumi.ch/bDV93

2026 ASPIRE cohort standing with lecturer Sam Hallman in front of a block M.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

Companies are bringing workers back to the office 5 days a week. Does this lack of flexible work arrangements have a higher impact on women in the labor force? Economist @betseystevenson.bsky.social told @npr.org “definitely.” Read Stevenson’s insights: myumi.ch/9JpMP

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

"Naturalness transcends political divides," says social psychologist @kaitlinraimi.bsky.social. Her new study finds that preferences for 'natural' tech, such as low-carbon energy, are bipartisan, offering a path to broader public support. Read more: myumi.ch/xjwmN

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

The new defense agreement bringing together Pakistan, Saudi Arabia & Türkiye adds another layer to an increasingly complex security landscape. We sat down with Javed Ali to discuss what the agreement could mean for the region & why the responses are worth watching. myumi.ch/G7294

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

92% of Michigan township and city officials are very confident in their jurisdiction’s ability to administer an accurate election, according to the Center for State, Local, and Urban Policy’s newest Michigan Public Policy Survey. 🗳️ Read more survey findings: myumi.ch/pgV7z

Row of voting booths at polling station during American election.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Where do working-age adults with bachelor’s or graduate degrees move for work? A new study co-authored by Kevin Stange, co-director of the Education Policy Initiative, explores this question by examining the patterns of workers and how they vary. myumi.ch/E7r4M

Young businesswoman working on a laptop in an office.

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 08/08/2026

Public health scholar Marianne Udow-Phillips spoke with @npr.org about distrust in public health, why clearer communication about uncertainty matters, and shared concerns that could help rebuild trust. Read more: myumi.ch/pgk2e

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

The U.S. Treasury and Japan’s finance ministry are collaborating to support the value of Japan’s currency. Why would the U.S. help strengthen the yen? Economist Kathryn Dominguez explains, “If the dollar becomes too strong, that hurts our exports in world markets.” myumi.ch/11bP7

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

Holly Bass, a multidisciplinary artist, choreographer, and writer, will join us this fall as a Towsley Policymaker in Residence! We are honored to welcome her to the Ford School community and are looking forward to learning from her expertise. Read more: myumi.ch/e7gXX

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Michigan elections are often decided by a shockingly small number of votes. In a new @freep.com op-ed, Rusty Hills traces several of the state's closest races to make the case that turnout is often what tips the outcome. Read: myumi.ch/d8A8j

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University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Today is Michigan’s primary election! 🗳️ Polls in Michigan are open from 7:00 am–8:00 pm. Find your polling location: myumi.ch/84Vjj

A person placing an envelope into a voting dropbox labeled "City of Ann Arbor, Michigan."

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