The Republican National Committee (RNC) has taken legal action against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, alleging that she has failed to adhere to federal mandates regarding the maintenance of the state’s voter registry, which the RNC claims is “inflated and inaccurate.”
RNC Chair Michael Whatley emphasized the importance of election integrity, stating that clean voter rolls are fundamental to ensuring fair elections. Whatley criticized Benson for purportedly not following the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), leading to Michigan having inaccurate voter rolls ahead of the 2024 election.
According to the lawsuit filed by the RNC, 91.5% of Michigan’s counties, or 76 out of 83, have voter rolls that are allegedly inflated and demonstrate noncompliance with the NVRA. It further asserts that 53 of Michigan’s counties have more active registered voters than residents over 18 years old.
In response to the lawsuit, Benson dismissed it as a publicity stunt, describing it as a “PR campaign” aimed at undermining confidence in the security of elections. She criticized the RNC for what she deemed baseless accusations and urged against casting doubt on the democratic process.
This legal action by the RNC against a government entity for alleged inadequacies in maintaining the voter registry is not unprecedented. Similar cases have been pursued by organizations like Judicial Watch in other states, including Pennsylvania, New York City, and Colorado, resulting in rulings against improper maintenance of voter rolls.
The RNC’s lawsuit seeks a court ruling declaring Michigan’s state officials in violation of federal law. Additionally, it aims to compel these officials to establish effective registration list-maintenance programs to rectify the alleged noncompliance and ensure that ineligible individuals are not included on the voter rolls.
