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GOP Members In Legislature Vote To Investigate Michigan's Election, Dems Call It Political Theater

Maxim Jenkins
/
WKAR-MSU

Republican-led House and Senate committees met today to vote themselves subpoena power to examine the conduct of the election. The vote by the joint House and Senate oversight committees fell along party lines.

The vote occurred at almost the same time as Democratic nominee Joe Biden was declared the projected winner of the presidential election.

Democratic state Representative Cynthia Johnson said the action is only meant to cast doubt in the results of a fair election.

“Every vote in the state of Michigan will be counted, regardless of this political theater -- and that’s exactly what it is -- the people’s vote, the people’s voices will be heard,” Johnson said. 

Republican Senator Ed McBroom said that’s NOT the case.  

"It was important for the Legislature to step up as quickly as possible and show that we hear those concerns and that we aren’t going to sit around and let them fester. We’re trying to get into the game as quickly as possible,” McBroom said.

One of the Republican chairs said he has questions about a mass mailing of absentee ballot applications to voters. A judge has already ruled the mailing was perfectly legal. 

“Michigan’s election was conducted fairly, accurately, and transparently, and the results reflect the will of Michigan voters. The Michigan Department of State has provided accurate information throughout to inform voters of their rights and to correct misinformation that seeks to confuse voters and tear down our democracy. We hope such activities will now stop so that our state and nation can begin to heal its division and move forward,” said Secretary of State spokesman Jake Rollow.

He also says the information the committee wants is already publicly available.

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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