Capitol News

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has issued a warning to residents regarding efforts by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to obtain personal voter information from the state’s Qualified Voter File (QVF). The DOJ has filed a lawsuit against Michigan and seven other states, seeking access to unredacted voter data that includes Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and other sensitive information.

Benson addressed Michiganders in a video message, stating: “Why do they want access to your personal information? I’ve asked them that. Other secretaries of state – both Democrats and Republicans – have asked them that. They won’t tell us. Nobody – not the president, the DOJ or any other federal agency has the right to your sensitive, private voter information.”

She emphasized that both federal and state laws protect voter privacy. The Privacy Act of 1974 was designed to prevent centralized government databases and requires agencies to disclose how data systems are used. Michigan Election Law also restricts the sharing of certain personally identifiable information from its voter file.

According to Benson, Michigan is among 30 states that have declined DOJ requests for full voter files. Only Indiana and Wyoming have provided their complete statewide registration lists without redactions.

“Here in Michigan, you have my word that I will stand up to this illegal and unconstitutional power grab for your private information,” Benson said.