Scrutiny of Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is facing multiple layers of scrutiny regarding her professional associations and her eligibility for office. Initially, Michigan House Republicans released records alleging Benson maintained a working relationship with the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) after taking office in 2018. This follows a federal indictment of the SPLC for allegedly funneling donor funds to extremist groups. Former Attorney General Mike Cox has filed legal papers alleging her prior board membership at the SPLC may have conflicted with her state duties.

As Benson pursues a gubernatorial campaign, criticism has expanded to include her management of election administration. Representative John James has alleged mismanagement, specifically claiming that noncitizens have appeared on jury duty rolls and participated in elections. Furthermore, activist Robert Davis has called for Benson to be decertified from the November general election ballot, alleging she filed a false affidavit of identity by failing to disclose outstanding campaign-related fees and fines at the time of signing.