Representative James DeSana (R-Carleton) introduced a resolution to impeach Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. House Resolution 118 contains three Articles of Impeachment against the Secretary, alleging violation of state and federal laws.
The following allegations are from the resolution.
Article 1: Abuse of Authority and Legal Violations
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- Issued election guidance and mandates beyond her statutory authority.
- Donated $82,500 to a judicial candidate through her PAC shortly before a case involving Benson appeared before the Michigan Supreme Court.
- Unilaterally banned open carry near polling places without legislative approval.
- Violated election law by presuming the validity of absentee ballot signatures.
- Urged certification of the 2020 election despite serious concerns about the Wayne County canvass process.
Article 2: Mishandling and Destruction of Election Records
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- Alleged discrepancies between electronic and paper voter records.
- Ordered deletion of electronic poll book data only seven days after certification, violating federal law requiring a 22-month retention period.
Article 3: Intimidation of Local Officials
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- Pressured local boards of canvassers to certify election results.
- Directed a local clerk to halt election duties without legal grounds.
Next Steps:
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- It was referred to the House Government Operations Committee for consideration.
- To impeach the secretary, the resolution would need a majority vote in the House and a supportive vote of two-thirds of the Senate members.
