RNC Challenges Michigan Voting Rules in Court Over Election Integrity

The Republican National Committee (RNC) has filed a lawsuit against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, claiming her recent directive on voting eligibility violates both state and constitutional laws. The lawsuit, submitted on November 18, 2024, challenges a ruling that permits individuals with ties to Michigan but who do not reside in the state to participate in elections.

Benson’s guidance allows U.S. citizens who have never lived in Michigan, yet have a parent, legal guardian, or spouse who last resided in the state, to vote. This has raised concerns about the integrity of Michigan elections, as the lawsuit alleges that “certain people who have never resided in Michigan are registering to vote and voting in Michigan elections.”

The RNC argues that this directive undermines the authority of the state legislature and disrupts the electoral process. The lawsuit states, “Simply, she has taken the Legislature’s power and used it to thwart them from fulfilling their duty to enact laws to preserve the purity of elections.” The RNC, along with the Michigan GOP, seeks judicial clarity on whether election officials are obliged to follow Benson’s directives.

Benson, appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, has faced similar allegations before. A previous lawsuit, filed weeks prior to the 2024 presidential election, contended that her guidance contravened Article 2 of the Michigan Constitution, which stipulates that individuals must reside in the state for at least six months before casting a vote.

In response to the latest allegations, Benson’s office has yet to provide a public statement. The legal challenge is part of a broader debate on voting rights and election integrity in the United States, reflecting ongoing tensions between state and federal regulations.

The implications of this lawsuit could be significant, not only for Michigan but also for how other states address voting eligibility. Observers note that the legal outcomes may impact voter turnout, especially among those with ties to Michigan living abroad, a demographic that, according to former Democratic National Committee strategist Bruce Heyman, tends to vote Democratic.

As this case unfolds, it will be closely monitored as an indicator of how election laws may evolve in response to changing political landscapes and concerns over electoral integrity.