Michigan GOP-led House files impeachment articles against Dem secretary of state for corrupt conduct

The Michigan GOP-led House has filed impeachment articles against Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for alleged corrupt.

Michigan state Rep. James DeSana (R) filed the articles of impeachment Tuesday, which were referred to the House Committee on Government Operations.

Three articles of impeachment were filed, with the first being "Abuse of Authority and Legal Violations," the second, "Mishandling and Destruction of Election Records," and the third, "Intimidation of Local Officials."

DeSana alleges in the articles that Benson violated both state and federal laws.

Some of the examples alleged in the first article include that Benson donated "$82,500 to a judicial candidate through her PAC" just before a case involving her "appeared before the Michigan Supreme Court;" banned open carry near polling places unilaterally, without the legislature's approval; and presumed the validity of absentee ballot signatures in violation of election law.

The last two articles include alleged instances of Benson ordering electronic poll book data to be deleted just a week after certification in violation of the 22-month retention period set by federal law, and pressuring local boards of canvassers to certify election results.

“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,” DeSana said. “Not only has she flaunted numerous Michigan laws, but Michigan courts have ruled against her on seven separate occasions.”

“Even Secretary Benson’s attorney admitted in open court that she will only follow the laws she deems constitutional or agrees with,” he added. “Her job is to enforce the law, not interpret or rewrite it. Since the Michigan Supreme Court and Attorney General won’t hold her accountable, it is up to the Legislature to act.”

The impeachment articles follow the state House holding Benson in contempt last month for not complying with a subpoena that sought to give legislators access to related material to the state's election training, local ABC News affiliate WZZM13 reported.

Benson, who is running for Michigan governor, said Tuesday that GOP legislators are "abusing their authority to access sensitive election information" that would allow them to interfere with the chain of custody for ballots, tamper with election equipment, or impersonate a clerk on Election Day, local CBS News affiliate News Channel 3 reported.

"I continue to call on Speaker Hall and his caucus to work with us and a judicial mediator to help us reach a resolution to this matter," Benson said in a statement. 

"But let’s be clear: this clown show he is leading is no way to govern. It is not how we solve problems. It is not how we make government work for everyone. And every taxpayer dollar wasted on these shenanigans is a waste of time and money. I remain committed to the security of our elections and to the people of Michigan. I work for them. I suggest the House Republicans start doing the same."