Michigan voters will decide on November 3, 2026, whether to call a convention to rewrite the state's constitution. The ballot measure, formally known as the Michigan Constitutional Convention Question, is a mandatory referendum that appears on the ballot every 16 years as required by the state's current constitution. If approved, the measure would trigger the election of delegates to a constitutional convention, which would have the authority to propose a completely new governing document for the state. The outcome would be subject to final voter approval. This process is separate from the legislature's power to propose individual amendments. The question last appeared on the ballot in 2010, when voters rejected a convention by a wide margin. Interest in the 2026 vote is already building among political groups, policy advocates, and legal scholars, who view it as a potential vehicle for sweeping changes to Michigan's government structure, tax system, and individual rights provisions. The debate is expected to center on whether the 1963 constitution, which has been amended over 40 times, requires a comprehensive update to address contemporary issues or if piecemeal amendments remain sufficient. Proponents of a convention argue the current document is outdated and contains provisions that hinder effective governance, while opponents warn of the costs, political uncertainty, and risk of losing established protections.

Historical Context

Michigan's current constitution was adopted in 1963, replacing the 1908 document. The 1963 constitution itself was drafted by a constitutional convention elected in 1961. A key feature of that document is Article XII, Section 3, which mandates that the question of holding a new convention be automatically placed on the ballot every 16 years. This provision has led to votes in 1978, 1994, and 2010. Each time, voters rejected the call for a convention. The 2010 result was particularly decisive, with 67% of voters opposing a convention. Historically, the push for a convention has gained traction during periods of perceived governmental dysfunction or economic stress, but has never succeeded under the automatic question. The last full constitutional rewrite followed a period of significant political change and urbanization in the state. Past convention debates have often involved arguments over tax policy, the structure of the judiciary, and the balance of power between the governor and legislature.

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