Michigan Demands Answers After Antrim County Clerk Accused of Improperly Altering Voter Records

 

ANTRIM COUNTY, Mich. — State election officials are investigating whether the Antrim County clerk improperly canceled or altered voter registrations, raising new concerns about election administration in a county that has remained under intense scrutiny since the 2020 presidential election.

According to the Michigan Bureau of Elections, Clerk Victoria Bishop may have taken actions that exceeded her legal authority by issuing voter cancellation notices and modifying records in the state’s Qualified Voter File, commonly known as the QVF.

In a formal letter sent earlier this month, Bureau Director Jonathan Brater stated that the agency had received reports from voters and local officials about “concerning activity” tied to Bishop’s office. A subsequent review of the QVF revealed what officials described as “sufficient irregularities” to warrant further investigation.

Allegations of Improper Cancellations

At the center of the dispute is whether Bishop improperly targeted voters who had not participated in recent elections. State officials say evidence suggests cancellation or confirmation notices were sent to individuals who missed one or two major election cycles.

Under Michigan law, however, voter registrations cannot be canceled solely for failing to vote.

The Bureau also alleges that Bishop may have:

• Changed voter statuses in the QVF to “Cancel” or “Reject” without proper authorization

• Failed to independently verify voter information before taking action

• Acted without delegation from city or township clerks, who are legally responsible for maintaining voter rolls

State officials emphasized that county clerks do not have unilateral authority to conduct voter maintenance or directly alter registration statuses in the statewide system.

Bishop Defends “Corrective Audit”

Bishop, a Republican elected in 2024, has defended her actions, describing them as part of a “corrective audit” aimed at improving the accuracy of voter rolls.

She argues that sending notices to voters was intended to prompt verification and ensure outdated registrations—such as those belonging to deceased individuals or people who have moved—are addressed. Bishop has also said that maintaining accurate voter rolls is essential to restoring public confidence in elections.

In public statements, she has framed her actions as a response to what she describes as past administrative failures, particularly during the 2020 election cycle.

Bishop is married to Randy Bishop, a conservative talk radio personality often known as “Trucker Randy,” who has publicly promoted claims that the 2020 election was stolen.

Potential Legal Consequences

The Bureau of Elections has ordered Bishop to provide a detailed explanation of her actions, including a list of affected voters and justification for any changes made in the QVF.

Failure to comply could carry serious consequences. State officials noted that:

• Election duties could be reassigned or removed

• Violations of lawful directives may result in misdemeanor charges

Michigan has previously taken similar action against local clerks accused of violating election law, including temporarily stripping authority in high-profile cases.

Antrim County’s Ongoing Election Spotlight

This latest controversy unfolds in Antrim County, a northern Michigan community that became nationally known following the 2020 election. At that time, a reporting error briefly showed incorrect presidential results due to a tabulator update issue, which was later corrected.

Despite the correction, the incident fueled widespread claims of election fraud and placed the county at the center of ongoing political and legal debates about election integrity.

Bishop campaigned on addressing those concerns, pledging to clean up voter rolls and strengthen confidence in the system. Her election reflected continued skepticism among some voters about the accuracy of election administration.

What Comes Next

The Bureau’s investigation is ongoing, and Bishop faces a deadline to respond with documentation and explanations of her actions. The outcome could determine whether the issue remains an administrative dispute or escalates into formal legal proceedings.

As Michigan prepares for upcoming elections, the case underscores the tension between efforts to ensure voter roll accuracy and the legal safeguards designed to protect voter access.

Tom Leonard Ends Michigan Gubernatorial Bid, Citing Principles and Path Forward

 

Former state House Speaker Tom Leonard announced Thursday that he is withdrawing from the race for governor, saying the decision came after months of reflection on the direction of the campaign and the standards he was unwilling to compromise.

In a statement, Leonard said his campaign had spent the past 10 months traveling across Michigan, meeting voters, and promoting what he described as “bold, positive leadership focused on real solutions.” He credited family members, staff, and supporters for sustaining the effort, expressing gratitude for their time, energy, and encouragement.

“This wasn’t an easy decision,” Leonard said, adding that the move followed “an honest look at the path forward” as the race evolved.

Leonard emphasized that continuing in the contest would have required changes to his campaign approach and personal values, which he said he was unwilling to make. “I’m not willing to compromise who I am or how I believe this campaign should be run in order to win,” he said.

The withdrawal comes as the gubernatorial race in Michigan continues to take shape ahead of the November election, with candidates across both major parties working to consolidate support and define their platforms. Political observers note that departures at this stage can shift the dynamics of a competitive primary field.

Despite ending his bid, Leonard indicated he plans to remain active in public policy and advocacy. “While this chapter is closing, we are not going anywhere when it comes to fighting for the issues that matter,” he said.

Leonard also called for unity moving forward, urging voters and leaders to focus on shared priorities as the election approaches.

No immediate endorsement of another candidate was announced.

Michigan Democrats Nominate Eli Savit for Attorney General Amid Party Tensions

 

Eli Savit Facebook 

DETROIT MICHIGAN — Michigan Democrats on Sunday selected Eli Savit as their nominee for attorney general, choosing the Washtenaw County prosecutor over Karen McDonald at a contentious party convention in Detroit that also reflected broader political tensions within the party.

Savit’s nomination comes at a time when Democrats in Michigan and nationally have faced criticism and accusations from some opponents and commentators over alleged tolerance of antisemitic rhetoric tied to protests and divisions over U.S. policy in the Middle East. His selection, however, also underscores the complexity of those claims, as Savit himself is Jewish and has been an active figure within Democratic legal and political circles.

The endorsement was decided at the Michigan Democratic Party convention at Huntington Place, where more than 7,200 delegates gathered to vote on candidates for statewide offices ahead of the November election.

Savit will now face Republican nominee Doug Lloyd, setting up a general election contest between two longtime prosecutors with sharply different views on the role of the attorney general’s office.

“We’re on the front line right now,” Savit told delegates following his nomination. “We’re facing challenges from Washington, D.C. We’re facing challenges from the corrupting influence of money in our politics. But what you see reflected on this stage is a hopeful vision for the future.”

Lloyd criticized Savit shortly after the nomination was announced, arguing that his policies reflect a politically driven approach to prosecution.

“Michigan deserves something different,” Lloyd said. “A legal system grounded in fairness, consistency, and respect for the rule of law.”

Savit’s supporters pointed to his record as Washtenaw County prosecutor, including his stances on criminal justice reform and environmental issues. Some delegates also emphasized his independence from corporate and utility-backed funding as a key reason for their support.

The convention itself highlighted ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly around issues related to campus protests, foreign policy, and internal messaging. Critics have used those divisions to accuse Democrats of failing to adequately address antisemitism in certain activist spaces, while party leaders and many members have rejected those claims and pointed to the diversity within their ranks.

Savit’s nomination places him at the center of that broader political debate as the campaign moves into the general election phase.

In other action, Democrats also nominated Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II as their candidate for secretary of state, as the party looks to present a unified ticket in November.

Chaos and Division Mark Michigan Democratic Convention as Key Endorsements Emerge

 

DETROIT  What was intended to showcase party unity ahead of a critical election year instead exposed deep divisions within the Michigan Democratic Party, as thousands of delegates gathered in Detroit for a chaotic and at times contentious endorsement convention.

More than 7,200 delegates packed the Huntington Place convention center Sunday, a record turnout that underscored both high engagement and rising tensions within the party. By the end of a turbulent day marked by delays, boos, and internal clashes, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II secured the party’s nomination for secretary of state, while Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit won the endorsement for attorney general.

Both candidates are now expected to appear on the November ballot as the party’s official nominees.

Disruptions and Delays

The convention was plagued by logistical issues from the start. Credentialing errors delayed voting for hours, sparking frustration among delegates who shouted from the convention floor and demanded the process move forward.

Voting, originally scheduled for earlier in the day, did not begin until late afternoon. Some delegates were unable to cast ballots electronically, forcing long lines and further aggravating an already tense atmosphere.

Party Chair Curtis Hertel Jr. attempted to reassure attendees, promising that all properly registered delegates would be allowed to vote. Still, the delays contributed to a sense of disorganization that critics quickly seized upon.

Boos Signal Party Divisions

Tensions were not limited to logistics. Political divisions within the party surfaced repeatedly, most visibly during speeches.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens was met with sustained boos during her Senate campaign remarks, highlighting a growing divide between establishment Democrats and progressive activists. Stevens attempted to calm the crowd, telling delegates, “Democrats, I love you, even when we disagree,” but the reaction underscored the challenges ahead in unifying the party.

Progressive favorite Abdul El-Sayed drew strong support from activists, with chants of his name echoing through the hall. His calls for sweeping reforms, including Medicare for All and the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, reflected the energy of the party’s left flank.

High-Stakes Endorsements

Despite the turmoil, the convention produced decisive outcomes in key races.

Gilchrist, who has served alongside Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for nearly two terms, secured the secretary of state endorsement after abandoning a gubernatorial bid earlier this year. Though he lacks direct experience overseeing elections, supporters argued he would defend voting rights and modernize state systems.

Savit’s victory over Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald came despite strong backing for McDonald from major labor unions. Savit, known for progressive reforms such as eliminating cash bail in certain cases, is expected to face scrutiny from conservatives in the general election.

Contentious Regent Race

One of the most divisive contests involved the University of Michigan Board of Regents. Civil rights attorney Amir Makled defeated incumbent Jordan Acker in a race shaped heavily by controversy over the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian protests.

The contest became a flashpoint for broader ideological battles within the party, with activists criticizing Acker while Makled faced scrutiny over past social media activity. The outcome reflected the growing influence of activist-driven issues in party politics.

A Party at a Crossroads

The convention also served as a platform for national figures, including Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, and Andy Beshear, all of whom addressed delegates ahead of potential future campaigns.

Whitmer, speaking to the crowd, acknowledged challenges at the national level and urged Democrats to remain focused on upcoming elections.

Still, the events of the weekend highlighted a party grappling with internal disagreements over policy, messaging, and leadership direction.

Looking Ahead

By the convention’s close, party leaders emphasized unity, with Gilchrist declaring, “Our unity is our strength.” But the visible fractures—ranging from ideological disputes to organizational missteps—suggest that achieving that unity may prove difficult.

With high-stakes races looming in November, the Michigan Democratic Party now faces the challenge of consolidating its base while navigating the divisions laid bare in Detroit.

Divisions deepen among Democrats in Michigan’s pivotal Senate race

 

 A closely watched U.S. Senate race in Michigan is exposing deep divisions within the Democratic Party as candidates debate ideology, electability and key policy issues ahead of the August primary.

Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive candidate aligned with the policies of Bernie Sanders, is pushing back against concerns from party leaders who fear his nomination could jeopardize Democrats’ chances in November. El-Sayed argues that bold positions — not moderation — win elections, pointing to the victories of Donald Trump as evidence.

The open Senate seat is considered critical to control of the chamber. Republicans are rallying behind former Rep. Mike Rogers, with outside groups planning major spending in the state.

Within the Democratic primary, El-Sayed faces Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. Stevens is viewed by party insiders as the most electable, while McMorrow is positioning herself as a bridge between moderates and progressives.

The race has highlighted sharp disagreements on policy. El-Sayed supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and backs Medicare for All, while his opponents favor more incremental reforms. Campaign financing has also become a flashpoint, with El-Sayed rejecting AIPAC and corporate PAC money and criticizing his rivals for accepting it.

Tensions have escalated as candidates question each other’s consistency and leadership. El-Sayed has accused party leaders of lacking “courage,” while McMorrow has countered that his campaign relies more on rhetoric than practical solutions.

Foreign policy — particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict — has emerged as one of the most divisive issues. El-Sayed has been sharply critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza and U.S. support for the country. Stevens has rejected claims that Israel’s actions constitute genocide, while McMorrow has expressed concern over potential war crimes and called for a resolution to the conflict.

The candidates have also clashed over campaign tactics. Stevens and McMorrow criticized El-Sayed for appearing with political commentator Hasan Piker, citing past controversial remarks. El-Sayed defended the appearances as part of engaging with diverse viewpoints.

The primary reflects a broader debate within the Democratic Party: whether to nominate a candidate who energizes the progressive base or one seen as more competitive with swing voters in a battleground state.

Some voters remain divided. While younger and more progressive voters are drawn to El-Sayed’s platform, others worry his positions could alienate moderates in a general election.

With control of the Senate potentially at stake, the outcome in Michigan could have national implications.

Streisand Effect Reshapes Michigan Senate Primary as Abdul El-Sayed Surges

 

Detroit, MI — A new Emerson College Polling survey is shaking up Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary, showing Abdul El-Sayed surging into a statistical tie for first place — a dramatic shift in a race that had looked far more settled just months ago.

According to the April poll, El-Sayed now commands 24% support, up sharply from 16% in January, putting him neck-and-neck with Mallory McMorrow, who also sits at 24%. Meanwhile, Haley Stevens has slipped to 13%, marking a notable decline in her standing.

The “Streisand Effect” in Play

The sudden rise of El-Sayed is being linked by some analysts to the Streisand effect — the idea that attempts to suppress or attack a candidate can unintentionally boost their visibility. Increased attention, whether positive or negative, appears to have expanded El-Sayed’s reach among voters who may not have previously been engaged.

Dominating Younger Voters

One of the most striking findings in the poll is El-Sayed’s overwhelming support among younger voters. Among those under 40, he leads by a wide margin:

• El-Sayed: 35%

• Nearest competitor: 18%

This 17-point advantage suggests a strong generational divide in the race, with younger voters gravitating toward his message and campaign style.

A Wide-Open Race

Despite the movement at the top, the race remains far from decided. A significant 36% of voters are still undecided, leaving ample room for shifts in momentum as the campaign progresses.

That large undecided bloc could ultimately determine whether El-Sayed’s surge is a temporary spike or the beginning of a sustained lead.

What It Means Going Forward

The numbers point to a Democratic primary that is increasingly fluid:

• El-Sayed is gaining traction and visibility

• McMorrow remains firmly competitive at the top

• Stevens faces pressure to regain lost ground

• A large share of voters are still up for grabs

With months to go, the Michigan Senate race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and closely watched primaries in the country.

Rising Waters Put Cheboygan on Edge as Dam Reaches ‘Ready’ Evacuation Phase

 

CHEBOYGAN, Mich. — A growing flood threat in Northern Michigan has pushed the Cheboygan Dam into the “Ready” phase of its emergency evacuation protocol, signaling heightened concern for residents as water levels continue to rise at a dangerous pace.

Officials confirmed early Monday morning that water behind the dam has climbed to within 12 inches of the top — a critical threshold that triggers the first stage of the region’s “Ready, Set, Go” evacuation framework. At this stage, residents living between the dam and Lake Huron are being urged to prepare for a possible evacuation.

A Situation Intensified by Weather

The surge in water levels is being driven by a combination of heavy spring rainfall and rapid snowmelt following a record-setting March snowfall. Additional rain in the forecast threatens to worsen conditions in the coming days, increasing the likelihood that the situation could escalate quickly.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has already declared a state of emergency for the area, activating Michigan’s State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts and allocate resources where needed.

What “Ready” Means for Residents

Under the current “Ready” phase, authorities are not yet ordering evacuations — but they are making it clear that residents should be prepared to move at a moment’s notice. Emergency officials are advising people to:

• Pack essential items, including medications and important documents

• Secure outdoor belongings and move valuables to higher ground

• Avoid riverbanks and flood-prone areas

• Monitor official updates and alerts closely

If conditions worsen, the situation will move into the “Set” phase — when evacuation becomes more imminent — followed by the “Go” phase, which would trigger mandatory evacuations and possible road closures.

Emergency Measures Already Underway

Crews have been working around the clock to mitigate the risk. Thousands of sandbags have been deployed to control water flow, while large pumps are actively diverting water around the dam. Additionally, a timber debris screen has been removed from one of the dam’s gates to increase water capacity and relieve pressure on the structure.

As a precaution, the U.S. 23 bascule bridge in the area has been closed due to safety concerns tied to the rising water levels.

Officials Urge Calm — and Accuracy

Cheboygan County Sheriff Todd Ross has emphasized the importance of relying on verified information, warning residents not to spread rumors or misinformation about the situation. While current projections suggest limited residential impact even if water overtops the dam, officials acknowledge that certain areas — particularly parts of the west side near the river — could see localized flooding affecting businesses and nearby streets.

A Community on Alert

For now, Cheboygan remains in a tense holding pattern — not yet evacuating, but no longer in the clear. The coming days will be critical as weather conditions and water levels determine whether the situation stabilizes or escalates into a full-scale emergency.

Residents are being told to stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly — be ready.