Capitol News

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has responded to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against Michigan and five other states regarding access to unredacted voter files. The federal government is seeking information that includes registered voters’ personally identifiable data, such as driver’s license numbers and Social Security numbers.

In her statement, Benson said, “It’s important for every Michigander to understand what’s at stake here – the U.S. Justice Department is trying to get us to turn over the private, personal information of more than 8 million state residents. That includes people’s driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers, and other personally identifiable information.”

Benson added, “I told them they can’t have it.” She emphasized her obligation to comply with existing privacy laws: “I’m required to follow the law. State and federal law include strict privacy protections that keep people’s personal data confidential and keep everyone safe from identity theft.”

She questioned the motives behind the federal request: “This kind of request is not normal. Why is this happening now? Why does the federal government want access to everyone’s personal information? I have asked them these questions. Other secretaries of state – both Democrats and Republicans – have also asked them these questions. They refuse to give us a straight answer.”

According to Benson, Michigan has already provided the Justice Department with all public records it is legally entitled to receive: “We gave the Justice Department exactly what they are legally entitled to – the public version of Michigan’s voter file.”

She concluded by asserting state authority over voter data: “States can and must hold the line. Only state and local election officials – not the president, the DOJ, or any other federal agency – have the right to people’s private voter information. The people of Michigan have entrusted this department with their personal data, and I will stand up to this illegal and unconstitutional power grab.”

The Michigan Department of State previously sent letters on September 2 and September 9 addressing these concerns.