(The Center Square) – State Rep. James DeSana, R-Carleton, announced late Monday he plans to file articles of impeachment against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today.
DeSana alleges Benson has engaged in “corrupt conduct, constitutional violations, and a repeated abuse of power.”
“This includes her unlawful election directives, failure to preserve critical election records, and conduct that has undermined public trust in our democratic process,” a news release from his office stated. “Michiganders deserve election integrity and accountability from their highest officials.”
This is just the latest in a dramatic face off between Benson, a Democrat, and Michigan House Republicans over election materials.
In May, Michigan Republican lawmakers introduced a resolution in the House to hold Benson in contempt of the House for refusing to hand over documents relating to election training materials. It was passed on a party-line vote.
“We have the right to request documents, and there is no provision in law that says she can’t give us those documents. I can’t see it any other way than lawlessness,” said Rep. Jay DeBoyer, R-Clay Township. “I can’t see it any other way. We are legitimately asking for things we are legitimately entitled to.”
While Benson has released thousands of documents, she argued that fully complying with the House’s request could put election integrity at risk.
“Every day, House Republicans spend time playing political games like this while the people of Michigan are struggling,” Benson said in response to the House’s vote holding her in contempt. “I am tired of this politics of cruelty and chaos needs to end.”
Benson has not responded to DeSana’s announcement. The articles of impeachment will be officially announced at a press conference Tuesday morning.
