Election season is known for the unexpected, and Michigan’s inaugural “I Voted” sticker contest is no exception.
One winning design that has garnered national attention features a howling werewolf shredding its shirt, paired with the iconic “I Voted” tagline in red, white and blue.
This bold, unconventional sticker was designed by Jane Hynous, a middle school student from Grosse Pointe. In September, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced it as one of the top designs, selected alongside eight other winners through a public vote.
Since its announcement, the sticker has been circulating on social media and even making television appearances. I knew I had to get one as soon as possible, so when early voting began, I made it my mission to track it down.
To my surprise, getting the sticker was easier than expected, especially given the buzz online. Election clerks had the option to order the special edition stickers, and a quick call confirmed the nearby early voting site in Auburn Hills had them on hand.
At the front of the early voting line, the poll workers shared that I wasn’t the only one on the hunt. Clerks in other parts of the state reported receiving calls from voters eager to confirm their polling location had the special edition stickers available.
Turning my attention to the table where all the winning designs were neatly arranged, I scanned each one until I spotted it: The coveted werewolf sticker.
At first glance, it’s striking, memorable and even a bit absurd — a refreshing way to celebrate casting your vote.
After securing my own keepsake from such a polarizing election year, I couldn’t help but take a closer look at some of the other standout designs voters could choose.
“OPE, I VOTED” sticker
The “OPE, I VOTED” sticker is a delightful nod to the Midwestern regional culture that uses the expression “ope.” Its design is clean and bold, incorporating the classic American flag colors in an abstract, non-traditional way.
The phrasing itself is fun and relatable, adding warmth and personality to the voting process. Ultimately, this sticker is a playful celebration of the Midwestern voter.
Fish voting sticker
This voting sticker with a detailed fish illustration adds a touch of whimsy to Election Day, with soft colors that make it feel straight out of a storybook. The “I Voted” slogan is seamlessly incorporated into the pattern on the fish’s body.
A brilliant nod to Michigan’s Great Lakes heritage, this design is both charming and serves as a tribute to one of the state’s favorite pastimes — fishing.
“I voted yay” sticker
Heartwarming and playful, the “I voted yay” sticker takes a more straightforward approach. Featuring childlike handwriting, the design — with its endearing backwards vowel — serves as a reminder of the children that voters are representing when they cast their ballots.
It’s an approachable design that provides a pleasant contrast to other more formal stickers.
Cat voting sticker
In this design, catch an adorable cat displaying with pride that they’ve voted.
Lighthearted but so incredibly fun, the bold colors of this sticker enhance the patriotic spirit without overpowering the rest of the illustration. The charming details and playful theme make it a great choice for voters looking to celebrate their vote with a touch of humor.
The creativity showcased in these designs highlighted the individuality that voters could express when celebrating Election Day. Whether you chose the bold and unconventional werewolf like me or opted for another option, there really was no wrong choice when it came to this year’s “I Voted” stickers.
