Tri-City Sun

State Representative Brian BeGole has cast a vote aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within Michigan's state government. This action is directed towards Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, who has been criticized for not fulfilling requests for information.

BeGole supported a resolution to hold Benson in civil contempt due to her refusal to provide documents related to election training materials. Several House committees have requested these materials, with the House Oversight Committee issuing a subpoena last month, which Benson did not comply with.

"This vote is not something I take lightly," said BeGole, representing Antrim Township. "Unfortunately, Secretary Benson has kept representatives of the people waiting for months and avoided turning over materials that will help people better understand how our state elections are being run. We have seen multiple instances of non-citizens voting in our elections. People continue to have process questions. I find it very concerning that as this is going on and the House has asked for non-controversial, non-identifying documents, Secretary Benson has dug in deeper and refused to provide needed transparency. Her office has even sidestepped a subpoena."

BeGole emphasized the role of legislators in overseeing other branches of government: "Part of our job as legislators is to oversee other branches of government. No one is above the law in Michigan. This resolution sends a clear message to our Secretary of State: respect the people, follow the law and adhere to your constitutional oath."

Michigan law allows the Legislature to issue subpoenas on matters before its committees and states that anyone failing "on demand to produce any papers, books or documents" may be found in contempt.

House Resolution 117 passed along party lines and holds Benson and the Department of State in civil contempt by the Michigan House of Representatives for their statutory ability to subpoena state agencies for oversight. The resolution also instructs House Legal Counsel to take necessary steps, including litigation, to ensure compliance with the subpoena.