Dear friend of WKAR,
In the fall of 2023, we implemented a plan to serve mid-Michigan by providing comprehensive news and information to help voters make informed decisions in the local, state, and national elections taking place on Nov. 5, 2024. Our plan started with a commitment to trusted, in-depth local reporting and national coverage on the candidates, campaigns, and issues. In the months that followed, we built on that base, forming new partnerships and allocating additional resources to best serve our community as we approach this historic election.
As I write this, the countdown to Election Day 2024 can be measured in hours. For those still preparing to cast your vote, I’d like to remind you of some key 2024 Election reporting and resources available from WKAR across television, radio, online, and even in-person.
Through a special partnership with the East Lansing City Clerk and Michigan State University, WKAR has had the privilege of serving our community as an Early Voting Center for residents of East Lansing since Oct. 21. The center will remain open through the end of in-person early voting at 6pm on Sun., Nov. 3. On election day, Tue., Nov. 5, the center will open as a polling place from 7am to 8pm. Eligible East Lansing residents who are not already registered will be able to register and vote at WKAR on Election Day.
At our WKAR 2024 Election website you'll find WKAR reporting on mid-Michigan and national issues and candidates, in English and Spanish, at 2024 Election News and 2024 Noticias Elececciones. Our nonpartisan Voter Guide, powered by ElectUp, offers clear, credible comparisons of the candidates and their positions to help you make informed choices.
The series MI Latino Vote, from WKAR reporter Michelle Jokisch-Polo, explores Latino voters' influence in battleground state Michigan. Our partners at America Amplified share this Election Security FAQ resource with answers to your questions about election security.
Weekly coverage from “Off the Record” helps keep voters informed throughout the year and every election season since 1972. The latest -- Tim's Skubick and panelists gave us an OTR Election Preview episode heading into this final weekend before Election Day.
You can turn to WKAR television and radio for comprehensive coverage on Tuesday, Nov. 5. “Morning Edition” and “All Things Considered” on 90.5 FM will have an election day focus, including mid-Michigan reporting, during the regular time slots of 5am-8am and 4pm-6pm. Beginning at 7pm and continuing throughout the evening, WKAR Newstalk on 102.3 FM presents NPR News live election coverage with mid-Michigan updates from your WKAR News team.
Tuesday beginning at 6pm, on TV 23.1, PBS News presents “VOTE 2024,” featuring live special coverage including analysis and results for the presidential, vice presidential, House of Representatives and Senate elections.
Beyond Election Day, we can look forward to celebrating those who have sworn an oath to protect and defend our democracy. Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11. As the team at WKAR reflects on the commitment of those who served, we’re pleased to present a special television broadcast of “Salute to Service 2024,” celebrating our nation’s veterans, past and present. We’re airing the special on Friday, Nov. 8, at 9pm and adding an encore at 10pm.
I hope you’ll join us in thanking our nation’s servicemembers for their courage and sacrifice as we celebrate the enduring spirit of America.
Best,
Shawn Turner
WKAR General Manager
Michigan State University
