RNC Lawsuit Against Michigan Voter Roll Practices Dismissed for Lack of Standing

Gavel and scales of justice on wooden surface.

A federal judge in Michigan has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) challenging the state’s voter roll maintenance practices, citing lack of standing and evidence.

At a Glance

  • Federal judge dismissed RNC lawsuit over Michigan voter rolls due to lack of standing and evidence
  • Michigan follows federal law requiring multiple election cycles before removing inactive voters
  • Over 550,000 inactive registrations are scheduled for removal in 2025 and 2027
  • Similar legal challenges to voter roll maintenance are occurring nationwide
  • Decision emphasizes the importance of evidence-based claims in election-related lawsuits

RNC Lawsuit Dismissed in Michigan

U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Republican National Committee (RNC) against Michigan’s Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Elections Director Jonathan Brater. The lawsuit accused state officials of not maintaining accurate voter registration records, but the judge ruled that the Republicans lacked both evidence and legal standing to pursue their claims.

The RNC’s lawsuit alleged that there were more registered voters in Michigan than eligible citizens, a claim that has been echoed by some prominent figures. However, the court found these claims implausible, noting that the RNC failed to provide specific cases of ineligible voters on the active voter list.

Michigan’s Voter Roll Maintenance Process

Michigan election officials maintain that their current system for managing voter rolls follows federal law, which requires specific waiting periods before removing inactive voters. The apparent discrepancy in voter numbers is due to inactive voters who cannot be removed from rolls under federal and state laws until certain conditions are met.

“False and meritless claims — whether they are posted on social media or in legal filings — won’t stand up in court,” Benson said in a statement. “That’s where evidence, the law, and facts rule the day.”

According to the Secretary of State’s office, over 550,000 voters are slated for cancellation in 2025 or 2027. This process aligns with federal law, which requires waiting until at least two federal general elections have passed before removing potentially ineligible voters.

Broader Implications for Election Integrity Cases

This ruling is part of a larger trend of courts rejecting similar lawsuits challenging voter rolls and election procedures. In Nevada, a judge dismissed an RNC lawsuit challenging the state’s voter rolls for lack of concrete evidence. A North Carolina judge struck down a Republican lawsuit to remove 225,000 voters from the rolls, citing a threat to democratic governance.

“Let me be clear: We have secure elections in Michigan” Benson said.

The dismissal of these lawsuits emphasizes the importance of providing concrete evidence when challenging election procedures. It also highlights the delicate balance between maintaining accurate voter lists and following federal voter protection laws. As the 2024 election approaches, these legal decisions may impact how future election integrity cases are evaluated by courts across the country.

Sources:

  1. Federal judge dismisses RNC lawsuit over Michigan voter records
  2. Federal Judge Dismisses RNC’s Lawsuit Over Michigan Voter Rolls
  3. Election 2024 Legal Challenges: Republican-Led Effort To Disqualify Voters Shut Down

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