Judge Says No to Michigan Secretary of State’s Latest Attempt to Manipulate Elections

Federal law states that it is unlawful for a noncitizen to vote in federal elections and establishes the punishment of a fine, one year in prison, or both for violation of the law.

Michigan judge Christopher P. Yates has made a significant ruling regarding the election manual issued by far-left Democrat Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s office to local election officials.

The judge has declared that the manual is unconstitutional and violates state law. This decision has far-reaching implications for the upcoming 2024 elections and has sparked a debate about the integrity of the electoral process.

A lawsuit was filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) on March 28 in the Court of Claims against Benson claiming the 2023 guidance, specifically that clerks should initially presume the validity of absentee ballot signatures, was issued “covertly” and was “inconsistent” with Michigan’s constitution.

One of the key points of contention in the case was the lack of strict signature verification for mail-in ballots. The judge determined that this lack of verification could potentially lead to voter fraud and undermine the integrity of the election process. As a result, the judge has ordered that strict signature verification be implemented for all mail-in ballots in the upcoming 2024 elections.

“With apologies to Gertrude Stein, however, a presumption is a presumption is a presumption. Whether the guidance manual includes a gentle nudge instead of a hip check, it’s still a foul under Michigan law,” Yates wrote.

The ruling was applauded by RNC Chairman Michael Whatley, who said it confirms that safeguards are required for absentee ballots.

“The Secretary of State’s covert attempts to sidestep these rules were rightfully rejected by the court, exposing that her attacks on election integrity have no substance,” Whatley noted. “This win is just the latest development in our ongoing fight to promote fair and transparent elections in the Great Lakes State.”

“This decision reinforces the fundamental principle that our elections must be conducted with the highest level of integrity and transparency,” said state Rep. Ann Bollin (R-Brighton). “It’s obviously vital that our chief elections administrator provides guidance that adheres to the constitution, so I’m glad the court has once again stepped in to put her on the right track.”

Bollin, who served as a municipal clerk for 15 years before her election to the Legislature, noted the ruling is the second time a court has determined Benson overstepped her authority by trying to implement changes without going through the administrative rules process, referring to a Michigan Court of Appeals decision last October concerning poll watchers and challengers.

“As chair of the House’s Elections Committee at the time, I led efforts to oppose her changes,” Bollin explained. “She ignored most of our concerns and moved forward anyway, but the court has now ruled that our concerns were valid. This ruling is a crucial victory for voters and election integrity in our state.”

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