Much of the attention each presidential election cycle centers on swing states where the outcome can have an outsize impact on who wins the White House. But candidate campaigns and political analysts also zero in on smaller areas where factors like demographics and turnout can play critical roles in the race's ultimate outcome.

The most important date is election day, which happens on Nov. 5 this year. But thanks to Michigan's expanded voter opportunities, residents don't have to wait that long to cast a ballot.

Factors like demographics and turnout in this group of counties could play critical roles in the outcome of this year’s race for the White House.

With election day less than two months away, it's time to make a plan for how you'll cast your vote. Michigan voters can cast a ballot ahead of time in person, absentee through the mail, or in person on election day.