Michigan Supreme Court upholds poll challenge guidance

In late August, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled in favor of guidance for election challengers issued by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D). The 4-3 decision follows a June lawsuit brought forth by election challengers and Republican parties concerned with the instructions for poll watchers. Learn more about the wave of litigation that has occurred since 2020 — when the administrative election procedures were modified — and how the state’s political system is feeling the impacts today.

The instruction manual included a new credential form for poll watchers, limits on when challenges could be recorded and a strict ban on the possession of electronic devices in closed-door absentee voting counting rooms while polling precincts are open.

The case originated from a June lawsuit brought forth by election challengers and Republican parties concerned with Benson’s instructions for poll watchers. The plaintiffs claimed that Benson’s instructions for election workers disregarded the state’s rule-making process and conflicted with election laws and constitutional provisions.

In 2020, 39 U.S. states, including Michigan, modified administrative or statutory election procedures before the general election in November. Litigation followed the modifications to election processes, with more than 425 lawsuits and subsequent appeals filed nationwide.




https://www.michigandaily.com/news/government/michigan-supreme-court-upholds-poll-challenger-guidance/