Election uncertainties facing Michigan clerks mount after Trump threat
Lansing — Michigan election officials are facing increasing scrutiny from some politicians and a presidential threat of federal intervention, which some expect to be attempted in the coming months, to begin the pivotal 2026 campaign year.
Republican President Donald Trump has floated the idea of having federal officials take over local responsibilities for administering elections. He's also used social media to promote five-year-old and dubious claims of voter fraud centered on Michigan.
A spokeswoman for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said Friday that Michigan leaders were preparing for a "range of potential threats." Despite the array of pressures — including a push for funding for new equipment and a petition campaign on voter eligibility — some of the clerks who administer elections in Michigan's largest cities said they'll continue to be focused on ensuring the law is followed.
"They will not betray their oath because of any type of effort by any elected official, whether it be Donald Trump or anyone else," said Michael Siegrist, the clerk in Wayne County's Canton Township.
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/22/michigan-november-2026-election-donald-trump-federal-takeover-threat-governor-senate-congress/88774636007/