The United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Civil Rights Division sent notice to seven Michigan municipalities notifying them that DOJ monitors will be present at their polling places on Election Day. The letters were sent to Detroit, East Lansing, Flint, Grand Rapids, Hamtramck, Lansing, and Warren.
DOJ monitors are typically federal attorneys and other DOJ staff. Monitors have been present in Michigan for several past federal elections, including 2024. Federal law does not expressly provide for monitors, so their presence at polling places is akin to any other member of the public who may observe an election as a poll watcher. Similar to other poll watchers, DOJ monitors can’t speak with voters, touch election equipment or ballots, or interfere with the administration of the election.
“Michigan has hosted federal election monitors in past elections, and we know clerks are well-prepared for this process,” said Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie. “State and local election officials have been in regular contact with DOJ about their plans for this election. As always, we will follow the law, and we expect all monitors, observers, and challengers to do the same. Voters can cast their ballots with confidence and know that our Department remains fully prepared to protect and defend their right to vote.”
