Monroe Review

State Representative James DeSana, a Republican from Carleton, announced the introduction of House Resolution 118, which contains three Articles of Impeachment against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. The announcement was made during a press conference held on June 3, 2025.

Rep. DeSana expressed his concerns about Secretary Benson's actions by stating, “As a legislator and lifelong Michigan resident, it is my belief that we are dealing with the most lawless Secretary of State in Michigan history.” He further claimed that “Not only has she flaunted numerous Michigan laws, but Michigan courts have ruled against her on seven separate occasions.”

The Articles accuse Secretary Benson of violating state and federal election laws, abusing her authority, and disregarding court rulings in Michigan. Article I addresses allegations of abuse of authority and legal violations. Specific claims include issuing election guidance beyond statutory authority, donating to a judicial candidate before a case involving her appeared in court, banning open carry near polling places without legislative approval, presuming the validity of absentee ballot signatures without verification, and urging certification of the 2020 election despite issues with the Wayne County canvass process.

Article II accuses Benson of mishandling and destroying election records. It cites discrepancies between electronic and paper voter records and claims she ordered deletion of electronic poll book data too soon after certification.

Article III focuses on alleged intimidation of local officials. It states that Benson pressured local boards to certify results and directed a clerk to halt duties without legal justification.

Rep. DeSana criticized Benson's approach to law enforcement by saying: “Even Secretary Benson’s attorney admitted in open court that she will only follow the laws she deems constitutional or agrees with.” He added that enforcing rather than interpreting or rewriting laws is part of her responsibilities. "Since the Michigan Supreme Court and Attorney General won’t hold her accountable," he stated, "it is up to the Legislature to act."

He emphasized that this move is about maintaining accountability within government operations: “This is a matter of accountability, transparency, and the integrity of our elections. If the people of Michigan are to trust our democratic process, we must ensure that those in power are held to the rule of law.”